Will you encourage your kids to believe in Santa?

We will :) I guess most people do. But I think it's a worthy discussion. There's something magical about him. With my Jewish and Catholic background, I think even I get confused when thinking about how we'll explain our Christmas tradition to James. But I think we'll figure it out.

This year, my mom and I lit the menorah together on the last night of Hannukah. Although we don't really "celebrate" Hannukah in the traditional sense, this small practice felt good- like we didn't need presents to celebrate, we just celebrated by being together. Today's the first Christmas in 28 years that I haven't woken up with my mom since we're with Zac's family this year. So this post's for you, Madre ;)

I hope everyone is enjoying the spirit of the holiday season in their own unique way, today and always.

How well do you know yourself?

I learn more about myself all of the time. Today I realized that I don't always deal with things until they happen- i.e., I try to live in the moment this way. I try not to anticipate anxiety or fear if I can help it.

I guess I do this because it doesn't usually help to be stressed out. I figure I'm going to have to deal with situations when they happen, so why foster anxiety, or fear, or whatever the emotion may be if it hasn't happened yet.

So anyway, I don't necessarily think this is the right thing to do, but it's what I do sometimes. Self reflection is a powerful thing. Do you do it often?

A big thing.

Tomorrow I go back to work. I think I'm kind of in shock. Part of me feels like I never went on maternity leave, and instead just had a crazy long weekend where I made this beautiful human being. Three months is not a long time. I'm going to miss James like crazy.

I was telling Zac today, the hard part isn't necessarily when I'm away from James, because at least then I'm distracted. It's when I get home and realize what I've missed. That's hard.

Wish me luck tomorrow. I'm gonna need it.

Love~

Do you love holiday music?

Who doesn't?

I wanted to boast about Cee Lo's holiday album, "Cee Lo's Magic Moment". I love his mix of funk and soul. His music just makes me want to dance! The album features songs such as "Baby, It's Cold Outside", "All I Want for Christmas", and "Silent Night".

Have you got any holiday album recommendations? I should put it out there, I am NOT a Josh Groban fan. Am I the only one?

Look what came in the mail!

(the jacket came in the mail, not the model)

I got the one in "mossy brown". I like to think of it as an early Christmas present to myself. Plus, it was on sale!

(from J Crew)

Where to eat Wednesdays: Farmers Markets

When was the last time you went to a Farmers Market?

I've recently gone with my friend, Sasha, on our weekly walks with our babies. I really like the one in Culver City. It's every Tuesday from 3pm-7pm on Main St. It's a great way to sample seasonal fruits and goodies. Yesterday, I bought avocado hummus, persimmons, and sweet grapefruits (I didn't even know those existed!). Anyway, it's fun and I recommend the busy outdoor market to anyone- even if you work, hopefully you can make it before 7!

(photo via One More Moore)

Times flies when you're having fun

Can you believe this little guy is 12 weeks already!? I can not. In case you were wondering, his current favorite activities include, eating his hand, being held by mommy, and sleeping for 8 hours (last night), in a row! ;)

He, however, does not enjoy getting in the Ergo, and only rarely enjoys "tummy time".

Love you James!

Great hair

Loving Reese Witherspoon's hair! Do you think they're extensions?

Where to Eat Wednesday: Boiling Crab

(Ok, I know it's Thursday- but apparently I just didn't know yesterday was Wednesday...)

Have you ever heard of The Boiling Crab?

A few weeks ago, Zac and I went here with our dear friends Kim and Esteban who had recommended it. The seafood (crab, of course, and other crustaceans) was amazing, and it was also fun to eat!

All and all, I'd recommend checking this place out if you like flavorful seafood. They serve it in a bag soaked in the spices of your choice, you wear a bib, and eat with your hands. Sounds fun, right?

In defense of marriage

Check out this lovely story about a couple celebrating 80 YEARS of marriage. In this day and age where divorce is so common, I thought it'd be nice to put some spot light on the ones who last.

(photo from ABC news of the Betars in 1932 and 2012)

Who's Feeling Adventurous?

Any daring and motivated soul willing to sign up for a months worth of "boot camp" with me? Because really I'd just like to look good in these pants:

Aren't they cute? ;)

I never really liked the term boot camp- as I don't like to think of working out as something similar to preparing for war, but I get it. Anyway, I saw this deal on Amazon Local and thought it'd be a nice way to jump start my body into a more fit physique before returning to work. Plus, I like working out with others, as it helps motivate me.

So let me know! How do you feel about 'boot camps'? Love them, hate them? Do you work out? If so, how do you do it.. at a gym, playing sports, work out classes, yoga? I do post-natal yoga myself, walk with friends, and love work out classes like spinning, et cetera.

Happy Thanksgiving

I hope you're having one of those "cozy socks" kind of days. Today, I am thankful for my little family and all of the wonderful people in my life. Where ever you are today, enjoy each other.

Love.

Isn't it ironic?

... that we celebrate Thanksgiving to take time to reflect on how grateful we are for what we've got, and then, we go shopping the very next day for what we don't have? I'm not against shopping, but this recent hub-bub about "Black Friday" starting Thursday night just seems crazy to me. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday because it's all about staying home with people you love, and eating, of course. Not shopping.

There's a great song by Bad Religion that has a line that says: "It's never really what you own but what you threw away".

What do you think?

Do you journal?

Lately I've found that writing does wonders for me when I'm feeling anxious. Keeping a 'journal' has always been one of those things that I do once every 5 months and wish I did more. But since I realized that it helps me feel better if I'm ever feeling overwhelmed or out of sorts, I definitely do it more often, as more of a coping method than a record keeper.

Don't get me wrong, I enjoy writing when I'm not particularly anxious. But I think it's easier to pick up the pen when there's that purpose to it. However, I'd like to make writing a priority now that James is here, documenting his growth and how our lives are changing seems important.

I think that's why I created this blog. Although it's not a journal, it's a way to document the day-to-day, what I'm thinking and experiencing, and James' happenings too. The difference is, here I'm sharing it all with you. :) I remember being inspired to FINALLY start the blog after finding out I was pregnant. I was talking about it for months, and it just took this little guy in my belly to get it rolling. Thanks, James.

So what about you? Is journaling a lost art? Or do you pick up a pen and record your inner most thoughts? Do you do it to keep record of your life or as more of a therapeutic process? Have you ever found an old journal and read through it? Isn't that the best!?

Where would you like to go next?

This weekend, James is going on his first road trip. We're taking him to Las Vegas to meet his GREAT-grandma and grandpa, and to see other family/ friends as well. We're pretty excited, although it'll only be a quick, one night trip, I think it should be a fun adventure. (But maybe everythiing's an adventure with a newborn?)

Anyway, this upcoming travel is sparking my inner wanderlust and I've been thinking of cities I would love to visit for the first time. The top on my list as of yet are Seattle and Nashville. I figure I've got to live up his free ride on planes while we can! Now I've just got to convince Zac..

(bottom photo is a print from Etsy, found here)

Where to Eat Wednesday: Joans on Third

Pancakes. Such a universal Saturday morning indulgence, that makes it that much more difficult to pick a place to recommend for the sugary treat. I was never very enthusiastic about pancakes, but then I got pregnant. And my love for them has not faded with giving birth... so, luckily I've got just the place for you.

Joan's on Third is one of my favorites. Perhaps a locale you would not think to order pancakes from, considering they specialize in serving numerous freshly baked goods, and have options on their breakfast menu like a New York style sandwich, and healthy options like oatmeal and parfaits. However, their pancakes are to DIE for! I usually order them to share with someone since I don't like just pancakes for breakfast, so it allows me to order eggs too. :)

Fluffy, and with real Vermont maple syrup, these pancakes are a must. So, let me know if you ever get the chance to try them out and see for yourself!

Aren't these lovely?

With a little black dress maybe? I'm not quite sure what I'd ever wear these with, but I know I love them.

(shoes from Emerson Fry)

Happy Monday

I hope you have a THRILLING Monday! I'm going to the Disability office (ugh), so I'm going to channel this quote while waiting in line! ;)

Where to Eat Wednesday: Donuts

What better feature on Halloween, than on something sweet. Last week, my friend and I tried out Primo's, a recommended donut shop on the west side. Understated and family owned, the service was great and the product fresh.

We went to try the buttermilk donut, but I do have to say it wasn't exactly what I expected. But it was good, and buttermilk-y! I'd recommend it if you're ever in the area (near the corner of Sawtelle and National).

Happy Halloween!

Funny onsie

I've really got to get James one of these. Although, he won't be wearing it for long!

Everyone's talkin' bout Sandy

Here's to all my loved ones out there near the storm, hoping that you're safe inside, and enjoying some mandatory indoor time.

PS- Beware these viral images going around the web that are NOT really Sandy. I'm not quite sure why people think tricking others about a serious storm is cool?

Happy

Lately, it seemed like I kept seeing this documentary mentioned everywhere. So last week I watched it since it's on Netflix streaming. The movie is only a little over an hour long, but it's a sweet and important look at happy people. The thing that stuck out to me was the research showing that 50% of our "happiness" can be contributed to genetics, while only 10% is due to things that people often associate with happiness (like money, status, etc), and the other 40% is up to intentional action. Cool stuff.

Simply, I think of the 'genetic attribute' as maybe identifying more as a pessimist vs. optimist. But it makes me think, even if you've got the 'pessimistic' gene, or depression, or whatever you might conceptualize this statistic as, there's still 50% of your mood that has a chance at this thing called happiness. It might be up to something as simple as rollerblading on a sunny day, or taking a walk with a friend, but the point is- we all have a chance to do something today to improve our lives. But we can't do it alone. It takes people- relationships. And think about it- if you're happier, then the people that surround you will be effected by your happiness- and the world turns.

Anyway, I recommend the film, there's lots more fascinating things in it than I've mentioned here. Not to mention, the film looks at a variety of people from around the world who identify as "happy", and they're all pretty amazing.

Gratitude

Lately I've recognized my incredible gratitude for this lovely, brand new and beautiful creature in my life, James. Zac and I have always leaned toward gratefulness- for loving each other, finding each other, enjoying one another's company. And now, it's like, times 2.

That's pretty cool, don't you think? Thanksgiving is coming up, and it's definitely my favorite holiday, but why wait til then to stop and reflect on what you so appreciate in this life? If not now, then when?

I am also grateful for friends, air conditioning, and good coffee ;)

Kitten Mittens

Obviously, I'm feeling the videos lately. This short clip from It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia cracks me and Zac up and now we call James "Kitten Mittens" whenever we wrap his cold little hands up.

What's your favorite animal?

I am currently in love with giraffes.

The Bond Challenge

This video makes me want to drink martinis and where tuxedos while suavely saving the world. Such a cool promo!



Who wants to go see the new Skyfall? After watching this, I totally do!

Halloween inspired jewlery

I've never been very good at dressing up for Halloween. Maybe this year I'll just where this:

(via Scout Mob)

Where to Eat Wednesday: Samosa House

Do you like Indian food? Well if you do, try out Samosa House. It's a great little place that's even been featured on Food Network's "Best Thing I Ever Ate". You order standing up, so it's really good for a no frills, fast option.

There are two locations- if you're looking to do some grocery shopping for authentic Indian food and spices, I'd recommend the original on Washington just west of Sawtelle. But otherwise, go to Samosa House East on Overland and Washington Blvd for better atmosphere.

Attractive to veggie lovers and otherwise- everything at Samosa House is vegetarian. I definitely recommend the jackfruit. Also, if you're looking to go into labor, I'd recommend this place, as it was the last thing I had before contractions started!

Do you watch The Simpsons?

I was never a regular viewer- but the show has been on the air long enough for me to have the open credits memorized. So I thought this real life interpretation of the show's opening sequence was awesome!



Via Cup of Jo

Better late than never?

Check me out 2 days before going into labor! Just in time as Zac and I like to say:

Photos by Mr. Jonathan Carmichael-- thank you! And photo direction credit: yours truly ;)

It's crazy to look at these photos now that I'm returning back to regular size. I was so huge!! (I artfully chose not to include those photos that highlighted my massiveness, but you get the idea...)

How beautiful

Classic. Confident. Powerful. Love her. Not to mention funny and oh so talented.
Happy Monday and Columbus Day everyone!

Funny!

I thought this video might add some laughter to your Sunday. Enjoy!



(via you tube)

Due date

Can you believe this guy wasn't scheduled to arrive until today!? Ocotber 2nd, 2012- James wasn't having that. He was ready to meet the world three weeks ago already. And now, we have this awesome family portrait.

Happy due date James! :)

Vests

Do you ever wear vests? I have to say, being a California girl hasn't led me to needing any of these- but after seeing this one from JCrew, I think I'd like to pretend that we actually get Autumns here in LA and splurge on this beauty. It also comes in pink, cream, and black, but I think I'd go for the navy.

What do you think? Can I pull it off in 70 degree weather?

(find the vest here)

Clever

Check out this clever art discovered over at Scoutmob:

Super funny. I'm thinking of getting this print for James' room! And they're cheap too ;)


Which one would you buy?

What do you have in common with the president?

While watching The View the other day (my not so secret guilty pleasure), I learned that Zac and I share our anniversary day with Michelle and Barack! Isn't that a neat factoid? And it's coming up, October 3rd!

Now, I just need to think of something sweet I can do for my man on short notice. ;) Recommendations welcome!

(photo via political girl)

Do You Feel Like a Mommy?

This is a question I've gotten a number of times so far in this new role and journey I've begun into parenthood.

I have to say, it's been a funny one to answer. Of course, I feel like this little life, this bundle of a person, is mine- ours, me and Zac's, to take care of, forever. But, this name- this mommy thing, I don't know if I'm used to that yet. Maybe because when you imagine being a mommy, you think of being called mommy? And surely, he's not talking yet. But I'm not sure if that's it. I guess I'm just getting used to it. What do you think? Does that make sense? Either way, I feel pretty rad. I feel like I have a really awesome gig- I get to hang out with this sweet thing everyday.

I do have to say there's lots of questions yet to be answered. But I think I'm ready to figure them out. With him:

And him :)

They're so cool.

How to Stay Married

Check out this funny article on 15 ways to stay married for 15 years.

I read it the other day and I had to read it again to see how much I agreed with them all. While I'm sure it's not an extensive list, I appreciate this woman's point of view and humorous take on a happy life with the one you love. I especially like number 4, 5, and 6- "be the mirror", "brag", and "do your own thing".

I think I was also surprised to see that I agree with "going to bed mad". Sometimes, it's all you can do besides tear your hair out- and in the morning, sometimes, you actually do feel better. I'll be the first to admit it's hard to see things clearly when I'm aggravated, and just a little thing like time can go a long way in helping to clear that heated air.

So what do you think? Do you agree with any of these 15? Do you strongly disagree? Ambivalent? If you're not married or in a relationship, how do these sound?

(article via Mrs. Netzer's blog, Shine Shine Shine)

Truth

Since I don't think I should be posting full sentences let alone paragraphs until I am somewhat less delirious from this life changing event that is currently taking place in my little life, I will just leave you with this small truth today:

Look who I brought home!!

It's picture blog time!!!

Although I think the pictures say it all. Mr. James Richard Propersi is perfect: all 6 lbs. 12 ounces of his 21.5 inch frame. AND, 3 weeks EARLY, born September, 12, 2012~

Newly born and eyes wide open:

I'm ready for my close up:

Look at that profile (looks like me!):

Passed out:

Don't you just love him? Obviously, I do. I think I'm half sleeping as I write this, but I couldn't wait to tell you all the news. Happy birthday Baby James!!! You're already filling our world with so much joy it's unbelievable.

Where to Eat Wednesday: Sushi Central

Last week, Zac and I went to one of our favorite places that I don't believe I've had the pleasure of telling you about yet: Sushi Central.

Zac happened to stumble upon this place years ago while walking to a friend's house and wanting to grab a bite first. He later discovered it's one of those places where you go and can BYOB (just remember to bring one for the owner too:) Phil and Talli are the husband and wife team who run the joint. And they, along with their amazingly high quality and delicious sushi, are the reason we keep going back.

Phil is this funny Japanese dude who talks kinda like a surfer, and knows his fish. His wife is a very sweet and lovely Israeli woman who oddly enough knows her sushi as well. And together, they make an awesome team!

The other night, Zac and I went because we really just needed some time together, to talk. We hadn't gone out just the two of us in a while, and I think we were starting to feel it, and our bickering was not cool with me. Then, low and behold, just when we needed it most, Phil, stopped by our table and imparted some much needed wisdom on us. I guess it's a long story, but he basically told us exactly what we needed to hear. Something along the lines of "don't worry, be happy".. I loved the simple advice.

Has that ever happened to you? Someone unexpected just tell you the wisest thing? Or the simplest thing that put all the big things in perspective? It's so nice when that happens. Zac and I haven't fought at all since that night. Thanks, Phil.

(PS, Phil was also on Throw Down with Bobby Flay on FOOD Network. Phil won, of course. So if you like good sushi, check out their place when you get a chance, they're on Overland and Palms- closed on Sundays).

Breaking Bad

Ok so I discovered something during my relaxing Labor Day weekend: Breaking Bad on Netflix.

This is one of those shows that I kept hearing people talk about. My typical response to peoples' encouragement was that I watch so much TV as it is that I wasn't sure I could fit it in. Life's rough, ya know? But luckily, or not, depending on how you look at it, the summer hiatus of my favorite shows (Fringe, Parenthood, Mad Men) had made me thirsty for new entertainment, and so I took advantage of Netflix streaming, something that I usually leave to Zac.

All that to say, I'm hooked. Caution though: it's intense and REALLY hard to watch at times. The main actor does such a great job of making you care about his character early on, that it's insane to watch the murderous things he gets himself in to. So watch at your own risk. Zac definitely dropped out at Episode 3, but I'm going strong and will probably start Season 2 tomorrow.

Do you have any TV shows you recommend? I love getting into them when they've been out a while so you can watch a bunch in a row!

(picture via salon)

Are You Competitive?

A few weeks ago Zac and I got into a "fight" because of a board game. Okay, maybe it wasn't so much of a fight, as I was just mad at him because of something he did in the game, and it's been so long I can't even remember why. How embarrassing.

What I do remember is that it was over a BOARD GAME. Silly right? I'm not the only one though, right? I mean, it's obviously clear, I take games too seriously. And of course this lends itself to my competitiveness in things like Fantasy Football, and making bets over silly things, like guessing with my colleagues what the next picture on our office calendar would be. Ridiculous, I know, but they started it. I even wrote my college entrance essay on competition.

But how about you? Am I alone on this one? Maybe it's because I grew up in Vegas.... Nah! That can't be it.

(picture via ffffound)

Do you like your neighbors?

Sad news: our beloved neighbors, Kari and James, have moved!

Even Brewster is sad (picture of her as a pup, since she basically introduced Zac and I to Kari and James, and then our dogs became besties).

This is the best example of not knowing how good you've got it till it's gone, because Zac and I absolutely adore K & J. They got married the day before us, are dog lovers, and are all around genuinely good people. We're super happy for them to be moving on to better things, but they will be dearly missed from our little apartment complex.

Today I realized that this whole 'love thy neighbor thing' is pretty rare, no? At least it seems like it is in L.A. given that we're in a big city. Maybe this is another reason that L.A. isn't as bad as stereotypes make it out to be. We live in a super dog friendly neighborhood, and that makes it way easier to get to know people on our block. It's nice to see friendly faces and feel like we know our "community" even if we're just small fish in this huge city.

So how 'bout you? Do you like your neighbors? Do you even know your neighbors?? If not, is it on purpose? Do you have any crazy neighbors? I know those are out there too!