Posts from — February 2013

This cold/flu bug thing I’ve had, since my trip to Michigan last month, has delayed everything with this blog. I’ve been anxious to blog about my trip to Michigan for over a month now. How did I end up in frigid temperature from sunny Los Angeles in the middle of January, you ask? The people over at Ford were kind enough to invite me to the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), along with a few fabulous bloggers. The trip included lots of great food, a visit to the TechShop, Rouge Factory and the Henry Ford Museum (seen in this post). Like Murphy would have it, I spent most of my visit sick, and even ended up being escorted back to my hotel room after turning an unflattering shade of green. However, I did manage to have a fantastic time at the Auto Show (see pics ) and at the Henry Ford Museum, where I got to see (albeit a bit morbid) the Kennedy Limo and the Lincoln Chair. I was very touched and internalized the installations as if I had witnessed these events in history. It was that moving. Another one that got me right in the gut was the Rosa Parks Bus – Honestly had no idea this vehicle was at this museum. I stood in shock when I turned the gallery corner and saw it right before me. Again, television images and the recounted stories of this day played in my head as I sat inside what I felt was a very crammed space. I mean, how do you put the feeling of awe, sadness and pride into one beautiful articulate package of written words, really? It’s an experience I will hold close always.

Visiting the museum, prior to attending the NAIAS, really put things into perspective for me when comes to the extraordinary vision of Mr. Ford himself and why Ford is such a leader in technology and innovation. Thank you Ford for the invitation and the lovely accommodations – But most of all for offering me the opportunity to experience history, the future and the realization of dreams.

It’s officially the year of the (water) snake – A year promising to bring in fireworks of passions and unexpected happenings. It also promises to inspire with serene wisdom while creating harmony and good relationships. Well, that is a quite a promise. And if Mr. Snake, the regal aristocratic master of his Chinese zodiac domain, keeps to his intellectual, shrewd reputation then I think 2013 is certainly going to be pretty darn good.

Coincidentally, my son and I have been going over Ancient China for Social Studies. We paid a visit to the Pacific Asia Museum to look at a bit of jade, see a few artifacts and enjoy the surrounding grounds. Sadly, it’s going to be one of the things I miss doing on a random afternoon while all the kids are at school. I recently made the decision (along with my son) to re-register him back into “regular” school. So many variables led to this decision but I think he gained so much during his one on one experiences with me, and his grandmothers (who taught Language Arts and Literature). He is perfectly fine with the change and is looking forward to seeing his friends again. I feel confident that he will make smart choices and will proceed with all that he has learned here at home.

He’s growing up so fast. It shocks me to hear how his voice is changing and woah! Is that a mustache? His taste is evolving as well. After years of requesting jerseys and sweat pants, he is now admiring watches and suits. His classic white shirt and jeans look was all him. And did I mention he has a collection of Tommy Bahama cologne? Watching a boy become a young man is such an amazing experience.

And as far as Mr. Snake is concerned … I’m hoping to win this lover of all things shiny over. I hear you love a luxurious home, which is great because I’m finally redecorating and changing everything (will be blogged about). I also hear you bring luck in business, and so far you’ve been on point. So ready for whatever else you have in store. Here’s to new beginnings, love, happiness and change.

My son and I goofed around so much making pop tarts and creating jelly bean boxes, I’m surprised I managed to get any photos out of the experience. He’s thirteen and I still make him do crafts and cutesy things as a mom and son “thing”. After all, what is Valentine’s day if you can’t sweeten it up a bit?

We had a great time making pop tarts from scratch (well, the dough was already packaged). He piled on the jam and the glaze … but that’s what makes baking with kids so much fun. They’re like mini-chefs passionately adding ingredients and imagining how good their creation is going to taste. I used a really simple recipe from Babble – with pie crust and strawberry jam. I topped the tart with a glaze and a sprinkle of red sugar. It was about a 20 minute mission. They taste so good. If you buy the boxed ones – get rid of them. Seriously. These are quick and a lot better. You can see the finished product here.

Like I mentioned last year, I’m not a big Valetine’s Day person. I like to keep it simple with a few projects designed to create memories. Really, that’s what it’s all about. I hope you and your special person have a wonderful Valentine’s Day!

If you’re anything like me, you have no choice but to shop online. Work and mom life has given me very little window shopping opportunities. Although I do think we should all do our best to go to the actual store, walk around a mall or peruse the shops in your local metropolitan area. It’s just – healthy. However, I do love to go online and check for looks seasons ahead. I like to plan out what I want to wear and some of the styles I’d like to explore. Recently, I was asked to try a site called My Style Genie. The site offers a personal style report with tips and tricks for dressing for your body shape, a shopping style guide and the latest in trends. You can create your own look book, track your outfits and be part of a social networking community along with fellow fashion obsessed friends.

As you can tell, I like a very sleek look and a sexy heel. After surfing around the site, I found a few outfits I would love to have for the Spring. Check it out, my friends. Tell me what you think!