Do you think you're rich?

It's the strangest thing, but I clearly remember, when I was little I used to think that I'd feel rich if I could buy expensive make up when I was older. Isn't that random?

I remember my mom buying her mascara from our local drug store, and seeing how much more expensive it would be to buy it from a department store. It seemed like such a trivial item, so it just made sense that you must be rich if you could choose to spend $20 on mascara.

Well guess what? I grew up to be rich. How amazing is that? It doesn't mean I have money flowing out of my pockets, but my needs are always met. And I'm surrounded by people and things that bring me joy. So I think that makes me rich. And I think it's important to recognize that. In a world where people are always striving for more- I wanted to take time to acknowledge what I have, and recognize that what I have is a lot. And I'm grateful for it.

So what do you think? Do you feel rich? Is it shallow to even think of things like that? Do you think it's awkward to talk about money? What an interesting topic!

(image found via pinterest)

Are you a happy camper?

Do you like camping? Z, J, and I are looking for advice on a good LA adjacent camp for novices like ourselves. I've been camping a few times, but usually with friends who coordinate logistics. Even though I'm not an old pro, I really enjoy it. And I like to really "camp" when we do... none of that "glam-ping" stuff (see: air mattresses, camping near restaurants, etc).

So, do you have any recommendations? We're dreaming of going to Sequoia National Park (or maybe the redwoods?) in September. James will be one (!) and it should be after the busy season. So, we figure camping close to LA first would be good practice. So do you have any recommendations?? Any are appreciated!

P.S. Does anyone else think it's almost elitist that you have to reserve camping spots at national parks? Call me old fasioned- and I totally get the practical reasons why reservations are probably necessary- but I kind of like the idea of just showing up and popping a squat where ever there's a spot.

(photo credit: coffeinthemountains.tumblr.com and prettyrepin.com)

A better Father's Day

I love the above pictures of me and my dad for two reasons. The first captured a great moment of my dad making me laugh. He did that a lot. And second, the bottom is of my dad and I at Zac's graduation, and I love that my dad knew Zac. I have so many wonderful memories with him, and I'm glad that I can look back on them now and smile. It took a while to be able to do that.

This being Zac's first official Father's Day has been pretty exciting. I think it's neat that somehow baby James arriving into this world, and making Zac a dad, has made this holiday a much happier occasion (for me at least).

Zac is such an amazing father. As was mine. I'm so lucky to have and have had both in my life. And James is one lucky kid. Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads out there.

41 years.

My mom and dad got married 41 years ago today. My dad rocked a cummerbund and my mom wore a long sleeved lace embroidered gown. Even though my dad isn't here anymore to celebrate with my mom, I think that's pretty amazing. Probably one of the most untraditional marriages I have ever known, but it taught me all I need to know about love. My mom says: We don't keep up with the Jones', we are the Jones'.

I've been thinking of mom and dad all day today. Here's to keeping it real, love, and commitment (apparently one of dad's greatest fears, according to my mom ;)

Summer Anthem

I Love It! I know the song doesn't make the most sense, but it makes me want to dance and reminds me of riding in a convertible, singing loudly, with no cares, after all... "I don't care, I love it!"

Where to Eat Wednesday: John O'Groats

I have to admit, breakfast is probably my favorite meal. So, last weekend Zac and I wanted to try out a new place. I had heard of John O'Groats from a friend of mine but had never tried it. So we ventured out to the Pico/ Overland area and explored the new (to us) spot.

The awning outside reads "biscuits from heaven", so of course we tried those. I got the Tahoe Scramble and Zac got something with turkey chili. James even had his first taste of a biscuit! He also got a lot of love from fellow patrons, since we were sitting near the front door, he basically acted as the restaurant's greeter. Check him out reading the menu...



I was surprised by the down home feel of the restaurant. Far from the trendy and up scale places LA is often known for, this place catered to families with small kids, and the atmosphere was cozy and homey. I recommend it if you're in the area and looking for a good neighborhood breakfast spot!

Middle child syndrome

Above, a picture capturing the moment he realizes he is now the middle child. Middles, this one's for you.

Happy Sunday!

(image via Huffington Post)

Kitchens

I was scrolling through Pinterest and recognized a trend on my home inspiration pins...







They're all kitchens!

I love the light in the first photo, the coziness of the second with those green trees peeping in through the window, and the rustic-ness of the third! Aren't they lovely? Which one is your favorite?

Do you love your kitchen? I kind of hate mine (and I know hate is a strong word), but it's so teeny and apartment-like. My silver lining is that it forces me to day dream about the quaint and cozy kitchen that I can hopefully enjoy one day!

(all of the pins and their credits can be found here)