Dandelion Sky

Hula Break!

2007-02-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

Taking a break for several months to prepare for a national Hula competition.

A hui hou e malama pono (See you later and take good care)!

In the meantime, check out a few my favorite hula-related sites:

Merrie Monarch
E Hula Mau
E Pili Kakou
Academy of Hawaiian Arts
Mele.com

Goodbye, my Oreo

2007-01-06T18:08:00.000-08:00

After a tough fight with age-related illnesses, little Oreo went on her journey this afternoon to Rainbow Bridge. She was such a special bunny to us and it was especially tough to lose her because she was our vey first rescue. When we found her at a high-kill animal shelter over 9 years ago, she was placed in a holding area dubbed "death row" and was only given one week to live due to over population at the shelter. She was an abandoned bunny, only about 3 months old when we got her and we are lucky to have found her at the right time. Goodbye for now my little Oreo. Run free and do bunny twirls under the rainbow. Mama misses you terribly.
For past posts on Oreo, click on label below.

Tank's Blog

2006-12-27T10:00:00.000-08:00

Tank's blog is now up and running. More posts to come as I'm transferring old ones from a different source. Layout is still not finalized, so keep checking back.

See what he's up to at Tank's World.

Happy Holidays!

2006-12-25T07:44:00.000-08:00

From my home to yours.

Ornamental Musings

2006-12-14T11:44:00.000-08:00

My friend is hosting a holiday ornament exchange party this Friday where each guest is to bring one ornament. It makes it especially hard for me since I've seen some very pretty ones in so many stores, and I can't seem to decide which to get. Here are a few of my favorites from Pier 1 and Anthropologie:

Have a Snow Day!

2006-12-13T07:20:00.000-08:00

Create some snow today! The more snowflakes created by the end of the year, the more donations given to The Salvation Army.

Create your snowflakes now.

A Few of My Favorite Things

2006-12-12T22:34:00.000-08:00

I’ve been hit with the flu bug and have had it for about a week now, pretty much right after the Ho'ike. All the running around and preparation for the performance, combined with being around a flu-stricken co-worker, finally took a toll on my immunity. I stayed home from work for a few days and did absolutely nothing but curl up in a warm afghan, cuddle with my pets, and watch a few of my favorite movies: Sleepless in Seattle, Serendipity and The Wedding Planner. Somehow, watching these girly movies that have common themes of nostalgia, belief in fate and wishes, got me listing some of my most favorite pastimes, places and comfort items:

~Foggy San Francisco mornings
~Steamy kitchen windows while mother makes chicken and rice soup
~Finger drawings on said steamy kitchen windows
~Shopping in Union Square with mother
~Smell of eucalyptus while walking in Golden Gate Park
~Seeing the red glow of sunset glistening on downtown San Francisco high-rise windows while walking to bus stop after work
~Sancha ballet shoes
~Wearing said Sancha ballet shoes while dancing at Academy of Ballet School
~Mac and cheese
~Potatoes and gravy
~Spam (extra crispy, please) and rice (typical ono ono Hawaiian breakfast!)
~Cheese ravioli
~Vanilla malt
~Lindt chocolates
~Mint chocolate gelato
~Driving down the SF Peninsula and stopping at beach to make sandcastles with Josh
~Rainy, warm Maui days
~Snorkeling with sea turtles in Hawaii
~The purring and snoring sounds of my rabbits and dog
~Picking apples at an apple orchard in the Fall
~The sound/beat of the ipu heke (Hawaiian drum)

I can go on and on...

Show Time!

2006-12-03T07:16:00.000-08:00

After 6 months of practicing for our annual Hula Ho'ike (performance), it's finally here! I'll be on my way soon to the theater for our final rehearsal before the show at 2 p.m. Two nights ago, we had our dress rehearsal and saw for the first time all 80 dancers in costume. It was overwhelming and exciting at the same time.

After rehearsal, our Kumu (hula teacher/master) reminded us what Ho'ike is all about - sharing and perpetuating the art of Hula. It's hard to believe that Hula was once almost a lost art, and what we do when we dance is preserving what has been for thousands of years. Those who truly know Hula understand that it is a spiritual art form and also a life style, one where Aloha exists everyday and in everything that you do.

King David Kalakaua once said, "Hula is the language of the heart, and therefore the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people," and that it definitely is!

Dress Rehearsal

2006-12-01T23:48:00.000-08:00

We had our 3-hour dress rehearsal tonight for the performance this Sunday. As predicted, the atmosphere was chaotic (but fun) with keiki running around and parents trying to gather them for costume changes. Wahine were also in disarray with costumes and accessories all over.

Afterwards, I had dinner with a few of my hula sisters. Will be touching up just a couple costumes, ironing them and I'll be all done and ready.

Taking a Break

2006-11-01T08:08:00.000-08:00

Our annual Hula Ho'ike (performance) is about month away and I will be taking a break until then (with maybe a few posts here and there). Practice sessions are getting longer, costumes are getting finished, and dress rehearsal is coming up. Until then, Aloha and malama pono (take care)!

Photo by Kim Taylor Reese.

Must Watch: Ace of Cakes

2006-11-01T06:21:00.000-08:00

I am so intrigued by Ace of Cakes on the Food Network. It showcases culinary skill, creativity and the use of innovative materials and tools by master pastry chef, Duff Goldman, who owns a quaint little bakery in Baltimore called Charm City Cakes.

His cakes are absolutely gorgeous. I can only imagine how they look (and taste) in person!

Flower Child for the Day

2006-10-31T15:10:00.000-08:00

Peace! Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!

2006-10-31T10:35:00.000-08:00

Special Halloween spiced-apple cupcakes with butter cream frosting. YUM! Available today at Sprinkles Cupcakes.

Cool Vintage Textile Designs

2006-10-29T13:06:00.000-08:00

Vintage fabrics with cool designs from the 1920s - present. All pretty enough to frame as unique wall elements. Available at ReproDepot.

Not Just For the Birds

2006-10-12T06:35:00.000-07:00

Whimsical bird wall art hand-made by letterpress onto hand-made paper. Very cheery and makes me happy. From Rare Device.

Classic Piece

2006-10-11T13:43:00.000-07:00

It's Fall - there's a slight chill in the air, the leaves are turning colors and the time change is quickly approaching. In addition to this shift in seasons, my autumnal timeclock seems to always give me the desire to redo my entire living space. I just love the Petrie sofa from Crate & Barrel. It offers classic lines and a great neutral palette for your decor.

Everyday Creativity

2006-10-11T12:50:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy lately with work, hula practice and catching a few seasonal bugs. Nonetheless, I've been itching to attack some projects I have laying around at home. Wish I had more time and energy to work on them! For those creative types who have the luxury of time, this book will help meet your creative fix. Available at Amazon.com.

For more ideas, visit 52 Projects.

Pink Ribbon Cupcakes

2006-10-02T15:15:00.000-07:00

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sprinkles Cupcakes is donating proceeds from its strawberry cupcake sales to the Entertainment Industry Foundation's Women's Cancer Research Fund. Pink ribbon strawberry cupcakes are only available this month on Tues., Wed., Fri. & Sat.

Helping out a good cause couldn't get any more sweeter!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2006-10-01T23:30:00.000-07:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. There are a number of events across the country that help support programs and raise funds to fight breast cancer. Please take some time to participate. Together we can help find a cure.

American Cancer Society
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Avon
Walk for Breast Cancer

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
Breast Cancer 3-Day
Race for the Cure
Passionately Pink

BUY:
Yoplait Save Lids to Save Lives
Pink M&Ms
Pink Ribbon Store
Ann Taylor Love Cures
Origins Flower Fusion

WEAR:
Lee National Denim Day

CLICK:
BreastCancerSite

I Heart JM

2006-09-28T00:33:00.000-07:00

I just got home from the John Mayer/Sheryl Crow concert in Irvine and we had such a great time! Josh and I went, and sadly this time our friends, Lori and Juan, weren't able to make it. Lori and I are such huge JM fans and we usually drag our poor husbands to his concerts (but it must not be that bad for them since we've seen them sing along!).

Sheryl Crow also put out an awesome show. Clearly, JM has evolved into a jazz/blues with a-touch-of-pop musician, which is more fitting for him and compliments his lyrics and style. And to end the evening, JM sang one of my favorite songs, 3 X 5.

Since Lori couldn't go, I got her the red shirt featured on JM's blog. I got myself the blue one. I hope you like the shirt, Lori!

-- SET LIST--

Belief
Good Love is On the Way
Vultures
Why Georgia
Slow Dancing in a Burning Room
Bigger Than My Body
Daughters
Clarity
Gravity
No Such Thing
Waiting on the World to Change

-- encore--
3x5
I Don't Trust Myself (With Loving You)
In Repair

Seven Songs

2006-09-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

I got tagged by Julianne to list 7 songs.

The rules are: List seven songs you are into right now. No matter what the genre, whether they have words, or even if they’re not any good, but they must be songs you’re really enjoying now. Post these instructions in your blog along with your seven songs. Then tag seven other people to see what they’re listening to.

Here's my list:

- Waiting On The World To Change (John Mayer)
- Daylight Fading (Counting Crows)
- Lights (Journey)
- Banana Pancakes (Jack Johnson)
- How Deep Is Your Love (The Bee Gees)
- Change the World (Eric Clapton)
- 3 a.m. (Matchbox 20)

I’ve been in a nostalgic mood lately and have been listening to songs that take me back to a specific time period in my life. All of the emotions that were involved at the time come shooting back at me each time I listen to the songs above. The only exception on the list is the song by John Mayer since it’s very new. I guess you can say that the song symbolizes the current period of my life, especially since I'll be going to his concert tomorrow night (YEAH!!!).

I’m tagging just a few bloggers if they'd like to play: Karla, Poppy, Carol, Katie and Reagan.

Tea Cup Swap # 6

2006-09-26T06:25:00.000-07:00

This has been yet another fun Tea Cup Swap # 6 organized by Beth. This time, I got Lucinda as my swap partner. What a perfect coincidence that she sent me such a pretty, whimsical bird tea cup. Like I told Lucinda, I have been on "bird mode" lately since the theme of our Hula performance this year is "Voices of the Birds." All of the songs that we are dancing to are about endemic endangered Hawaiian birds. Lucinda chose well! Along with the pretty tea cup, she sent some yummy Chai Tea by Good Earth. Thank you so much for such a lovely package, Lucinda!

Busy Hula Bee

2006-09-25T17:58:00.000-07:00

Aloha! I have been so busy the past several weeks that I haven't had much time to blog, let alone do much of anything else. My hula school's annual Hula Ho'ike (presentation/performance) is coming up in early December and I have been attending classes and long practice sessions almost everyday, sometimes twice a day with my hula sisters. Even though December may sound like it's far away, it's only 9 weeks away to perfecting our dances, making our costumes and memorizing our Hawaiian chants. It will be a 2-hour performance in an auditorium that seats over 2,000. Additionally, we got word that the composer of one of the songs we are dancing to will be attending...so that's even more pressure to do well! Below are items that I have been surrounded with the past several weeks. These are some of the costumes that I will be wearing along with my hula implements. Now...back to practice!

Remembering 9/11

2006-09-11T06:14:00.000-07:00

All of us can recall where we were and what we were doing at the time the Twin Towers fell to the ground on 9/11. For many of us, the memories are much more tragic and will be for a very long time. Today especially, my prayers and thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims of 9/11.

A Lovely Setting

2006-09-08T15:44:00.001-07:00

I had to take a break from blogging to focus on other things that have been keeping me busy lately. In a perfect world, I would love to be posting more often, but things have been hectic and I needed to set some boundaries before getting overwhelmed. So with getting back into blogging, I visited the Anthropologie site, one of my favorite shops, to see about new Fall items. Tomorrow my friend is hosting a combined surprise birthday and end-of-summer party for us Hula sisters. The minute I saw these pieces, I envisioned a very lovely setting for a very girly get together, like one we're having tomorrow.

Cute Skirts Made With Love

2006-08-25T07:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! These skirts are too adorable with whimsical prints and a vintage look. They all look so comfy and perfect for weekend wear, whether you are going for a lazy Saturday afternoon stroll or attending a lovely Sunday brunch. All from Made With Love by Hannah.

Design Star - Final 3

2006-08-25T06:25:00.000-07:00

I'm a big fan of the show Design Star on HGTV with judges Cynthia Rowley, Vern Yip and Martha McCully. It's now down to the final 3. Catch it on Sundays at 9 p.m. (Pacific/Eastern).

Missed some episodes? No problem. Design Star Marathon will air this Sunday starting at 3 p.m. (Pacific/Eastern)

I Heart Blueprint

2006-08-24T06:43:00.000-07:00

Can I just tell you how much I love Blueprint? My Fall 2006 issue arrived the other day and I can't seem to put it down. It's filled with such great finds, ideas and projects on style, design, food, organization and crafts. All, of course, ala Martha.

Tea Cup Craziness

2006-08-23T21:05:00.000-07:00

I remember when Beth first started her Tea Cup Swap in the beginning of the year and I think there were only about 30 participants. Word of mouth, blog postings, not to mention some media coverage, have resulted into a tea cup swap frenzy. Now I see that there are over 200 participants! Kudos to Beth for creating and organizing such a fun swap. August 25 is the last day to sign up for Tea Cup Swap #6. Here is a re-cap of what I received so far:

Branch: Cool Organic Finds

2006-08-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

I'm a big fan of creatively designed products that are made of organic and environmentally-sound materials. Branch offers items that are made of recycled glass, cork, naturally-aged wood, biodegradable plastics and hand-woven vintage fabrics. Even better, their items have such clean and interesting lines suitable for modern living.

Tea Cup Swap 5

2006-08-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

Beth's Tea Cup Swap Round 5 has been another blast! I got a wonderful package from my swap partner, Natalie. She picked such a pretty pedestal foot tea cup in a pale purple with a flower design on the inside that reminds me of Monet's garden. She also sent yummy peach white tea and cinnamon creamed honey. Thank you so much, Natalie, for such a terrific swap package!

As usual, it was fun to shop and package up goodies for my swap partner, Robin. I received this very same tea cup from a past swap partner, Katie. It is SO adorable and makes me smile each time I use it, so I had to go to Antrhopologie and get one for Robin. Here is what I sent her:

...and Sprinkles We Came!

2006-08-21T22:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, I couldn't resist stopping at Sprinkles's new location in Newport Beach since Josh and I were in the neighborhood anyway. Reminiscent of its first bakery in Beverly Hills, there was a line out the door! We walked out with a coconut chocolate cupcake, a milk chocolate cupcake and two carob cupcakes for Tank. Sprinkles cupcakes are the very best cupcakes I have ever had. They are so moist, smooth and tasty. Seriously folks, if you are a cupcake fan like me, you need to make a stop at Sprinkles when you are in the Los Angeles area or Orange County.

No Sprinkles in your neighborhood? Well, make it happen by voting for a Sprinkles to appear near you. Vote for your city right here.

Sprinkles, Here We Come!

2006-08-15T06:43:00.000-07:00

Sprinkles is now open in Newport Beach, CA! Just look at all these flavors. YUM!

Carob cupcakes also available for our little dog friends:

Cool Wall Paper from Rare Device

2006-08-14T21:02:00.000-07:00

Summer is nearly on its way out and we still need to finish up some home renovations. These wall paper would look great in a powder room or nook area and even pretty enough to frame. Available at Rare Device.

Five Senses Swap

2006-08-13T22:17:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I participated in a swap that revolved around the Five Senses. I thought it was a cool concept to send/receive a package that allowed you to experience all the senses at one time. Here is what I got from Stephanie - great smelling soap, yummy candies and tea, a CD mix, a very soft hand-made scarf and a fun necklace. Thanks, Stephanie, for a fun package!

I also had so much fun shopping for my swap partner, Yo Yo. I put together a package that had a spa theme. Here's what I sent her:

New Music by John Mayer: Continuum

2006-08-04T06:14:00.000-07:00

In stores on 9/12. Pre-order here.

Postcard Swap

2006-08-02T06:16:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I received a beautiful postcard from Lilian for the Handmade Postcard Swap through Swap Bot. It was equally fun to create a postcard for my partner, Lois. For my postcard, I used left over scraps of paper and beautiful embellishments from Papier Valise, one of my favorite online shops for craft goodies. They have a variety of good quality and absolutely adorable adornments made of paper, metal, plastic, glass and fabric. I can buy the entire store!

Happy Birthday, Simon!

2006-07-31T06:30:00.000-07:00

Simon fit just inside the palm of our hands when we first got him. Now, he is just a big black furball with a silver belly. Josh found him being sold by a child who didn't want him anymore in front of Safeway for $10. Josh couldn't bear to think of the baby bunny being bought by impulse and ending up in a terrible home or sold to a lab or sold for fur. So after getting groceries, Josh took him home. We're so happy we have him; he is the sweetest little guy and always happy to give kisses. Happy 6th birthday, baby boy!

Before getting a rabbit as a pet, please do your research to make sure that a rabbit is the pet for you. They are very fragile, sensitive and complex animals and it's important to educate yourself before getting one, as with any animal. It's also very important to take your rabbit to a rabbit-savvy veterinarian to get proper care. Log on to the House Rabbit Society for helpful information.

Surprise Package from Storme

2006-07-28T08:22:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, Storme posted on her blog about two lovely surprise packages she was going to send off and to which I responded that the recipients will certainly be thrilled. Little did I know that one of those packages was for me! The goodies were delicately wrapped and tied with ribbon, all packaged in beauitful wrapping paper that Storme creatively turned into an envelope, along with one of her latest cards. Inside were a delicious chocolate bar, a variety of green teas and yummy hard candy. Storme, thank you so much for a wonderful package and for sending it at just the perfect time - the start of my new job venture! You are so thoughtful!

Tank's New Shirt

2006-07-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

Available at Old Navy.

Feeling A Little Yellow...

2006-07-25T07:41:00.000-07:00

All from J. Crew.

Open! Open! Open!

2006-07-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

I can't wait until Sprinkles Cupcakes opens in my neck of the woods sometime this summer!

Hand Painted Ballet Shoes

2006-07-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

The Ballet Master at my ballet school would not have approved this for class, but how adorable are these ballet shoes! Hand painted with symbols inspired by tattoo motifs, each pair comes with a banner text of your choice, with little sayings such as "If you say run, I'll run with you" or lyrics from songs such as "Daydream Believer & A Homecoming Queen" or "Tiny Dancer In My Hand." Available at La Voleuse.

How Dirty Is Your Purse?

2006-07-17T06:21:00.000-07:00

Being a lover of purses and a clean freak, I was curious and nervous at the same time to open a circulated email I received today called "Dirty Purses."

The email described a research study that was conducted on purses and bacteria. It goes on to say that many disease-causing bacterias can be found on purses, such as those that cause eye infections, serious skin infections, salmonella and e-coli. The type and amount of bacteria found depended on where the user placed her purse (i.e. bathroom floors, under restaurant tables, etc.). Gross!

This is not a myth per Snopes.com. Read all about it here. Must do routine purse cleanings...or go shopping for purses more often!

Marc Jacobs purse above from Bluefly.

Handmade Postcard Swap

2006-07-16T19:40:00.000-07:00

I received a lovely postcard from Lilian last week for the Handmade Postcard Swap through Swap Bot. She made a simply elegant postcard with vellum and tiny flower confetti. Each time I shake the card, the window reveals a dfferent color and design combination. I've propped it near a window so that the flowers sparkle each time the sun hits it just right. Thank you, Lilian, for the beautiful postcard!

Ikea: Lingo Boxes

2006-07-11T19:05:00.000-07:00

On my lunch hour today, I took a short drive from work to Ikea for the sole purpose of getting one little thing, but I also couldn't resist getting these cute storage boxes to help me with my recent cleaning/declutter urge. Looks great on top of my closet shelves and for $4.99 a pair, not too shabby to brighten up a closet, work space or storage area!

Alice Card Set

2006-07-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite stories is of Alice's adventures in Wonderland with a white rabbit, a smiling cat, a king and queen and a tea party in the end. When I was young, I wanted to be just like Alice, get lost in an unfamiliar place and go on my own adventure. But now as an adult, I guess these cards will have to do. Silkscreened by hand, these cards depict the images of the story's characters. Faded pastel colors and charming illustrations give a sense of timelessness.

Available at Rare Device.

Congratulations, Josh!

2006-07-08T21:12:00.000-07:00

Josh graduated today with a Masters in Educational Technology from Pepperdine Univeristy in Malibu. Way to go, Josh!!

See Me Work

2006-07-07T20:18:00.001-07:00

I try to be an organized person, especially at work when piles and piles of documents can quickly accumulate. For me, there's nothing better than a well-organized work space - at work and at home. See Jane Work has adorable items for your organizational needs, not to mention ideas for a tidy space with their "Desks of the Month," like this one:

Artist Jeana Sohn

2006-07-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

I came across artist, Jeana Sohn, while doing some searches on art exhibits in San Francisco. Her work has a whimsical and dreamlike quality with a lot of symbolism. Her pieces are ones that allow you to stare and take on many interpretations...

At the Giant Robot in San Francisco through July 26.

The Devil Wears Prada

2006-06-30T12:04:00.000-07:00

...opens today!

Weekend Picnic

2006-06-30T06:35:00.000-07:00

I am so ready for the weekend! As for me, I would love to start celebrating early for the upcoming holiday and spend time outdoors, lay on the grass and have a picnic. It's probably not going to happen, but it's nice to dream. I enjoy eating picnic treats as much as putting together a lovely setting, and these items from Anthropologie are not only functional but also create a very calm and tranquil ambiance...

Surprise Package From Karla

2006-06-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

Last week, I got a package from Karla containing all hand-made goodies: a pretty cosmetics bag, a cute handmade card and adorable stuffed bunny that feels fuzzy and soft. Thank you so much, Karla, for making these little treasures and for thinking of me on my birthday!

Kimono Rings

2006-06-28T06:56:00.000-07:00

Kimono, which means "clothing", is among Japan's oldest and most recognizable treasures of art. Traditional kimonos, commonly made of silk, were carefully hand-crafted and extremely expensive. In modern day Japan, kimonos are only worn during special occasions and made of various types of fabrics. But now, we can wear these pieces of luxury any time we wish through kimono rings from The Carrot Box. Each acrylic ring encases a piece of genuine kimono fabric, and at $16 each, it doesn't cost an arm and a leg to have a little piece of Japanese history!

Rena Tom Jewelry

2006-06-26T07:32:00.000-07:00

Jewelry designer, Rena Tom, creates such delicate, organic pieces. I especially love these from her Spring 2006 collection made of summer's most popular elements - shells and pearls.

A Good Book...

2006-06-22T07:38:00.000-07:00

is worth more than a thousand words. And even more so with delicately bound books that aren't only intellectually stimulating, but visually as well. Cloverfield Press publishes limited, numbered editions of short stories by today's upcoming and established writers. Each book is created with letterpress covers and beautiful illustrations. A great way to kick start my summer reading!

Happy Summer Solstice

2006-06-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

Today is the first official day of summer and is designated as the longest day of the year. Hooray for more time to bask in the daylight! More info on Summer Solstice here.

Sun Print Cards

Easy handmade cards using objects from nature and light-sensitive paper make such pretty gifts. After a few minutes in the sun, flowers, leaves and twigs leave their imprints on a sheet of light-sensitive paper. Images and instructions from MarthaStewart.com.

Birthday Delights

2006-06-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

My mother-in-law, Carol, brought these mouth-watering delights yesterday for my birthday. Chocolate ganache/mousse-filled petifores... so delicious as much as they were so adorable!

from Tasteful Cakes.

The Most Amazing Bouquet...

2006-06-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

Josh surprised me on my birthday with the most beautiful bouquet filled with tropical flowers and foliage! I felt as if though I was the envy of the office when it got delivered to my desk at work. I brought it home on Friday and found the perfect spot for it in our entryway at home (left).

Another Birthday...

2006-06-15T06:43:00.000-07:00

Another birthday and why do I still feel like I just left high school? This picture was taken when I was about 2 and was one of my mom's favorites. For years, this picture was a topic of conversation during family get-togethers. I had just gotten up from a nap and was very cranky and threw a flying fit (so my mom would say). As a result, we were late to a wedding for which I was one of the flower girls. The reason why my mom loved to share this story so much is still a mystery to me.

Being in my early 30s now, I can remember not too long ago how I dreaded the "downhill" road after 30. Just when I thought that my 20s years couldn't possibly be topped, I am happy to say that I'm enjoying my life more than ever. I don't think we really ever grow up...we just get wiser!

What age do you act? Take the quiz here.

Custom Pieces by Viesso

2006-06-14T21:23:00.000-07:00

I often find myself daydreaming about redoing my entire living space - from architectural stucture, wall colors, appliances, flooring, furniture. One day I may want a modern loft-like feel, another day it's rustic, shabby chic, bohemian style. I can never decide what I want or find what I want, but I guess that's the fun of daydreaming. Furniture producer, Viesso, allows you to play around and build custom pieces on their innovative site - select the style and size for your space, and choose from a variety of options for fabric, filling, finishes, legs, and more to create your own custom piece. A great visual aid for the undecided, like me.

Whimsical Paperweights by John Derian Company

2006-06-13T07:51:00.000-07:00

My desk at work is pretty much composed of piles and piles of legal documents. Amidst all the chaos, it's always a wonderful surprise to find pretty, cheerful things peeking out from tucked-away areas of my work space. Designer John Derian creates decoupage pieces and tranforms them into one-of-a-kind items such as these lovely paperweights. All are handmade in his New York studio. A great way to brighten up any desk!

Happy Birthday, Oreo!

2006-06-12T06:28:00.000-07:00

In June of 1998, we adopted our first bunny - the one that started our bunny rescue efforts that later led to 8 adopted rabbits. Little Oreo was found as a stray and was placed in an animal shelter that gave her only one week to live. Around the same time, Josh and I happened to stumble across a news segment on the House Rabbit Society. It was a very sad and touching story on bunnies that are bought during Easter time due to impulse and gifts for chidren. This is how "Easter Bunnies" are abandoned and neglected which leads to a high rate of rabbits ending up in shelters and getting euthanized. After seeing this, Josh and I went to a nearby shelter to find a bunny to save. We found Oreo in a small wire cage in direct heat with very little food and water. Luckily we adopted her just in time, only a few days before she was scheduled to be euthanized. Oreo was an Easter Rabbit since we estimated her to be about 3 months old when we adopted her.

Bunnies, just like people, have their own little personalities. As for Oreo, she is the diva of our warren. Whenever I purchase something new, particularly shoes and purses, she feels the need to rub her chin on them (to mark it as her property or with approval)...we figure she is much of a style maven. She is also a finicky decorator as she constantly rearranges her bunny bungalow, her litter box and toys. She loves to be groomed by her bunny buddies, but only returns the favor when she feels like it.

Since we don't know when her exact birthday is, we celebrate it around the time we adopted her. Happy Birthday my little sweet Oreo!

Summer Skirts: J.Crew

2006-06-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

Pretty summer skirts from J. Crew - full of tropical fun and made of light, comfy material...

Cupcake Review: Mrs. Beasley's Strawberry Cupcake

2006-06-07T07:15:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday was a warm and sunny day with just the right amount of breeze. I decided to take a walk during my lunch hour through the peforming arts building, opera plaza and through the theater. I was craving a cupcake so I decided to head over to Mrs. Beasley's where I found this:

Strawberry Cupcake from Mrs. Bealey's

Review:

(Out of a Possible 5 Cakes)
Appearance: 4.8 cakes
(cup)Cake: 4.5 cakes
Frosting: 5.0 cakes
Total: 14.3 cakes

Comments: Cake was tasty with smooth texture, but I prefer to have it a tad bit more moist. Strawberry frosting was a whopping nearly 3 inches tall - very delicious and tasted like fresh strawberries (unlike some frostings that taste artificial or mediciney). Although the frosting was impressive, there was too much of it for the little cake given. Overall, it was very tasty!

For Beth's International Cupcake Tour, click here.

Tea Cup Swap, Round 4

2006-06-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

What a great few days it has been - 3 swap packages in 4 days! Yesterday I received my Tea Cup Swap, Round 4 package from Katie. What a very thoughtful package she put together - an adorable tea cup from Anthropologie (one of my favorite stores), green chai tea (I'm a big fan of green tea) and Black Pearl chocolate by Vosges (a chocolate bar with a hint of ginger, wasabi and black sesame seed flavor...very, very yummy even though the ingredients may sound strange with chocolate).

Katie, thank you so much for such a lovely package. I absolutely ADORE everything you sent!

Children's Book Swap

2006-06-05T07:57:00.000-07:00

What a surprise to get Beth again as a swap partner, this time for Karla's Children's Book Swap. Thank you, Beth, for the most adorable book. Just love it and my bunnies approve!

It was equally fun to find a great book for my swap partner, Nicole. I chose this classic book by Dr. Seuss because it carries a great message for us all: life has many adventures ahead - just enjoy it (challenges and all)!

Tank's Swap Package

2006-06-03T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today, Tank received his swap package from Carolina all the way from Chile. She made a beautiful down blanket for him with velcro closure for neat and easy folding. This will definitely keep him warm on cool nights. He tried it out right away and loved it. Thank you, Carolina, for making such a thoughtful and very useful gift for little Tank!

Click photos to enlarge

Hawaiian Festival Performance

2006-06-03T07:26:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my hula group performed at the San Clemente Hawaiian Festival. It was a fun day of hula, music, food and arts. Here are some pictures.

Happy Friday!

2006-06-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a weekend filled with warm sunshine, lazy afternoons and cool comfy flip flops to slip into…

Flip flops from J.Crew.

Stuff for Sophie

2006-06-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Tank and I went shopping for Beth's Stuff for your Pup Swap. I got Melanie's name and she has a sweet little Beagle named Sophie. Here's what we got for her. Tank made the card all by himself (with a little help from mom)!

Dandelion Sky Is Back!

2006-05-31T11:39:00.000-07:00

After about a week of being inaccessable, I am so happy to be able to post again. For some reason, my template got ruined - links got erased and strange codes were added. I didn't know the first thing to do! The week off made me realize that blogging has become a very enjoyable part of my life, and that in a week's time, a lot can happen!

Amazing Finish: Congratulations, BJ & Tyler!

2006-05-18T06:51:00.000-07:00

TTAW! Glad to see that the nice guys finished first on Amazing Race 9.

Eclectic Inspirations

2006-05-17T06:37:00.000-07:00

Feeling a little Victorian, a bit rustic, and a little whimsical today...

All from Anthropologie.

Tank’s Swap Package

2006-05-16T21:42:00.000-07:00

Tank is so excited to be sending his package to his partner for the Stuff for your Pup Swap organized by Beth.

He can’t wait to get his swap package too!

Still Dreaming of the Weekend

2006-05-15T06:56:00.000-07:00

It’s hard to accept that Monday is here again, but in the meantime, I think I’ll daydream about the weekend we had with just the right amount of sun and breeze. These make great accessories for outdoor decor: whimsical decorations, comfy pillows, cool outdoor furniture. Just in time for more warm southern California days ahead.

Mini bird statue from Anthropologie; pillows from West Elm ; pot from Anthropologie; furniture from Pottery Barn.

Bunny Yawns

2006-05-11T06:25:00.000-07:00

Having rabbits in my household, I have seen many bunny yawns. They're among the cutest and funniest things I've ever seen. The thing is, it's so hard to take pictures of rabbits yawning because 1) you never know when it's going to happen and 2) a yawn only lasts for 2 seconds at the most. By the time I get my camera, the yawn is over. Rich over at Rabbit Row forwarded me a link to a site devoted to pictures of bunny yawns. You can find it here. The bunny photo on the left is Bunny Yawn #26.

Cute Cards: Rock Scissor Paper

2006-05-10T21:47:00.000-07:00

As posted by Sharp Lily, Rock Scissor Paper offers such cute cards, invitations and stationery. I just love the "flutter collection," left. Makes writing to friends and family much more fun!

A Super Book by Carson

2006-05-09T06:51:00.000-07:00

While searching for a children's book for Karla's Children's Book Swap, I came across this adorable book by Carson Kressley, which has a positive message - being different makes you special. Kids can be mean and make fun of others based on such minor, silly things. Whether you have asthma, a speech impediment, diabetes, are athletically-challenged (yes, I was the kid who was always picked last for kickball) or just plain shy or don't fit in, this book illustrates that each person has her/his own special gifts and talents. And that makes you all the more super.
Available here.

Happy Cinco de Mayo Friday!

2006-05-05T06:44:00.000-07:00

Here's to a weekend filled with fun gatherings and delicious food. And what a great excuse to have a party tonight with good friends - old and new. Here's just some of the items I have on my kitchen counter today.

Menu:
Chicken enchiladas
Pico de Gallo salsa
Mango cucumber salsa
Guacamole
Chips
Flour tortillas
Mixed Green Salad with cucumber and baby tomatoes
Apple pie with dulce de leche ice cream
Margaritas, beer and tropical iced tea

It's Swell

2006-05-03T07:05:00.000-07:00

Hey, life is too short. Why not live a swell life...or try to anyway!
This book is a lot of fun. I especially love the chapter on party themes and the idea of hosting a "Facts of Life" themed party. The host wears roller skates and guests must bring a picture from their adolescent years. Of course the menu has to match the theme - ho hos and ding dongs and other high fat/calorie food only, please.

This and other Swell books available here.

Tea Cup Candles

2006-05-02T14:27:00.000-07:00

If you love teacups as much as I do, what more fun than to make adorable little teacup candles! They would make great gifts for Mother's Day, birthdays, bridal showers or just because.

Materials:
Nested pans
Partially burned candles
Candy or candle thermometer
Tongs
New wicking
Teacups
Wick sustainers
Wooden skewers

Instructions here from MarthaStewart.com (as also posted by Beth).

Self Portrait Challenge, Part 1

2006-05-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

This month's Self Portrait Challenge: Introduce Yourself.
More here.

Someone once told me that there's a lot you can learn about a person just by looking at their hands. Maybe this is so, but I also believe that a person's hands become even more colorful when learning their story.

Pearl is my birthstone

I work as a legal assistant and type 80 words a minute
But my passion is creating with my hands
And taking photographs
And baking cookies

I like the feel of slippery pages of magazines,
And the coarse pages of a good novel

I love the warmth of a tea cup in my hands
And the chill of a bowl of sundae at Ghirardelli Square

When I was little, I got calluses from the parallel bars in gymnastics
But even worse from the monkey bars during recess

I miss making lumpia with my mom,
And homemade hot cocoa with my grandmother
Both loved gardening, but sadly, I didn't inherit a green thumb

I love to hug my bunnies,
And my dog,
And shelter animals

I'm classically trained in Ballet
And dance the Hula,
But cannot play a single musical instrument (even though I tried)

I'm married to my best friend and high school sweetheart

Purell makes my hands happy

Happy Lei Day!

2006-05-01T05:56:00.000-07:00

A lei is a token of love, gratitude and respect. May 1 is considered Lei Day in Hawaii. This holiday is centered around the Hawaiian custom of making and wearing leis. All over Hawaii, friends and family exchange leis, and it's a day of flowers, music, food and hula.
More info on Lei Day here.

Happy Friday!

2006-04-28T06:45:00.000-07:00

It's finally Friday! Wishing you a wonderful weekend whether you'll be running around everywhere or doing absolutely nothing. As for me, I hope to catch up on some sleep. There's nothing like a good afternoon nap in a patch of sunshine with a light breeze after a good read. And speaking of good reads, the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books is this weekend. Over 300 famous authors will be there with hundreds of exhibitors. More info here.

Sprinkles of Yummy Goodness

2006-04-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

At Sprinkles, decadent cupcakes are made daily in their tiny bakery off of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. They serve 20 flavors from vanilla milk chocolate to banana to chai latte. It's no wonder that this bakery, considered to have the "Marc Jacobs of all cupcakes," is a favorite among celebs such as Oprah, Jake Gyllenhaal and Katie Holmes. They even offer doggie cupcakes for our little four legged friends made with carob and yogurt! Must pay a visit to Sprinkles soon!

Go BJ & Tyler!

2006-04-26T21:17:00.000-07:00

On Amazing Race 9.

More Audrey

2006-04-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

Available here.

The Newest Member of Our Family

2006-04-24T07:25:00.000-07:00

We adopted Tank last week after a week-long trial run. Since we have 4 house rabbits, we were very cautious and careful to choose a dog with a great disposition and one that fits well in our household.

Tank is a 1 and 1/2 year old Mastiff/Pit Bull mix who was abandoned. He was hit by a car and was left there until a kind person found him. Unfortunately, he only has three working legs after the accident, but amazingly, he’s able to get around as if nothing bothers him. Given his breed and disability, a dog like Tank has a very low chance of being adopted. Lucky for him, he was rescued and fostered in a good home before we adopted him. Everyone who has met Tank has fallen in love with him, including us!

Aloha Saturday

2006-04-22T17:10:00.000-07:00

I spend my Saturdays at the halau (hula studio) for hula class and today we learned a dance for one of our perfomanes this summer. For those who have lived in or visited Hawaii, you can understand what it means to feel the aloha. And for me, each and every Saturday, the minute I step into the halau, I feel the aloha spirit and am closer to Hawaii even though I'm in California.

Today is the last day of the week-long Merrie Monarch Hula Festival in Hilo. The purpose of the annual festival is to preserve and promote the art of hula and Hawaiian culture. Hundreds of wahine (women) and kane (men) dancers participate from all over Hawaii and the mainland.

A livestream is on tonight starting at 9 p.m. through 3 a.m. (Pacific). More info on the webcast here.

Image above from Merrie Monarch website, Miss Aloha Hula 2004.

Happy Friday!

2006-04-21T06:47:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a weekend filled with warm spring sunshine and much relaxation!

Image from MarthaStewart.com

Top Spring Looks

2006-04-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

Top Row: Peter Som; Calvin Klein
Bottom Row: Burberry Prorsum; Narcisco Rodriguez

More of Style.com's Top 10 Spring Looks here.

How To Be Lovely

2006-04-18T07:26:00.000-07:00

While at Anthropologie the other day, it was a nice surprise to see that they carry this must-have book since my favorite celebrity style icon is Audrey Hepburn. Not only do I admire her for the elegance and grace she carried, but also for the compassion she had for humanitarian efforts with UNICEF. Indeed, everyone can learn how to be lovely - inside and out - from Audrey!

This book can also be found at Amazon.
More on Audrey here.

My Mother – A Style Icon Herself

2006-04-17T06:50:00.000-07:00

Everything I learned about style, I learned from my mother, Lydia. She grew up in the 1940s-1950s in the Philippines and was a trend setter among her group. Her handbags and shoes had to be coordinated. Her hair always perfectly coifed. Her coats were exactly the same length as her dresses. She attended parties with big bands and was active in her community and her church. And all the while, she was so humble and extremely giving and kind. She was a great listener with a loud, contagious laugh. She loved Saturday morning flea market finds, as well as frequent ventures to Union Square in downtown San Francisco. A hard worker, a teacher and chemist, a talented sewer. A wonderful mother.

It's a very hard day for me since she passed away 6 years ago today from cancer. Since she taught me to be strong and always look ahead, I can only do that today by looking back and remembering all that she's given me. I miss her terribly.

Happy Easter

2006-04-16T06:20:00.000-07:00

...from my very own Easter Bunnies - Simon, Oreo, Sydney and Patrick. May you have plenty of Easter eggs in your basket today!

Devine Accents: Decor by Anthropologie

2006-04-14T08:53:00.000-07:00

All can be found here .

Tea Cup Swap Part 3

2006-04-13T20:14:00.000-07:00

Today, I received my tea cup package from Jasmine. She emailed me awhile back to let me know that she found the perfect tea cup, so I couldn't wait to see what she got me. She was right! Jasmine sent a very sweet Peter Rabbit tea cup and a bag of Green Tea with Cherry made by Eastern Shore Tea Co. She knew I have house rabbits and that I'm a fan of green tea - how very thoughtful. Thanks so much, Jasmine for a very lovely package! Looking forward to Part 4 of Beth's Tea Cup Swap.

Bunny Swap

2006-04-12T10:51:00.000-07:00

Since I have 4 house rabbits, April is a fun month in my household simply because it's Bunny Season. And how perfect it is for Beth (also a bunny mom) to organize a fun Bunny-themed Swap. Last night, I found a cute box by my front door, and what a surprise to get the swap package from Beth herself! Beth, thank you so much for all the adorable bunny items! I just love everything, especially the "Grow An Easter Bunny" toy. Oreo, Patrick, Simon and Sydney also approve!

Just look at the cute bunny stickers Beth put all over the package:

...and all the adorable bunny items inside:

Here's Oreo checking out the goods:

I also had fun shopping and making cards for my swap partner, Karla. Here's what I sent her:

Ribbons Galore

2006-04-11T06:40:00.000-07:00

Great ribbons and trims for crafty goodness and sweet little packages: Renaissance Ribbons

What To Do Before Starting New Job?

2006-04-10T21:57:00.000-07:00

I'm Going to Disneyland!

I have one week off before starting my new job and to begin the week, Josh and I took advantage of our southern California resident passes to Disneyland and California Adventure. My favorite ride today - California Screamin: