Dearly Loved

I recently been thinking a lot about adventure and about what brings a person to the point of no longer living each day as a glorious adventure.

When did we decide we could no longer dream or create or enjoy life as the beautiful gift it was intended to be.

I believe in God and Jesus and the cross, all that jazz... And sometimes I think we easily place that stuff into a faith box and we store it away and only think of it when there's a need based on our own human judgement. What I think we often miss is that God and Jesus and “all that jazz” are directly linked to adventure and dreams and creativity. All that is good comes from God. And adventure, dreams, and creativity are good, my friends, they are so, so good.

via Tracy Lucy

There was a time not too long ago I wouldn’t dare write about my faith, in part because my faith was troubled, but largely because I didn’t want to get lumped into a category with Christians. As long as I can remember, I haven’t much cared for the people I went to church with or was supposed to glean knowledge from. I only saw judgement and rules... and there’s no quicker way to turn a kid with authority issues off of something than constantly, and often inaccurately, telling them the don’ts of religion.

I pretty much ran as far away from the church as I possibly could. As a teenager I asked my parents to no longer attend church, they reluctantly obliged. I avoided anything to do with religion, church, or God for nearly a decade. Sure, I prayed for things, but we all know that’s not how that works. I think I held on to the morality of it all, but my faith was nothing more than the fact that I still believed in God. And when it really came right down to it, I saw God as some one that didn’t make my dreams come true and didn’t rescue me when I was drowning in sadness.

Fast forward 10+ years. I found myself searching. Knowing there was more. There HAD to be more. I had a beautiful marriage, a blessed life, but I knew I was intended for more. What was I searching for!? After a bit of guidance and a tremendous book that hit me right in my feels, I realized that blaming God for Christian’s behavior and the type of church environment I grew up in was bonkers. It wasn’t fair to place all of that crap on The Lord. People are only human and they will disappoint you, but God is eternal. Forever. Do you get that!? I didn’t. There is nothing in this world that you can do to separate you from the amazing love that’s freely given from the Heavenly Father. BOOM. The more I understood this, the more my heart began to soften and I was awakened to the amazing goodness that lay ahead of me.

Finding a place to worship and be filled with the word literally terrified me. I had tried a church or two over the past decade, but was always immediately turned off by something. Well, like he’s known to do, God met me where I was and through his divine intervention I was introduced to my San Diego church home. A place where people genuinely wanted to know about me and where you couldn’t help but be overwhelmed by the spirit of The Lord. I talked to the pastor after my first message and cried like a moron and cursed at least 2 times. Out of practice with the whole church thing much!?! #fail

I started attending a bible study and made an effort to be involved. Not going to lie, I was beyond freaked out to  jump in, but nothing had felt more authentic and right to me in a long time... But more than anything I was shown a world where God didn’t equal rules, or a to do list, or a judge, or anything other than what he truly is, LOVE. Passionate, unconditional, unwavering love and I want everyone to know it. I want my kids to know it. My husband. Strangers on the street.

I’m still human. I fail on a weekly daily hourly basis, but my encouragement is just the never ending grace God grants us! There is so much joy to be had in this life, live it with fervor and intention. Live it in LOVE.

Half Way

photos via Kelsey Erin | [dress] Hatch Collection [booties] Sam Edelman [bag] Fawn Designs [sunnies] old Warby Parker, currently lusting after these

Well, we've made it to the half way point and I feel decidedly more pregnant with baby number two. Things hurt faster, you pop faster, it's just as crazy and unique as the first go around. But this time I have a major pregnancy goal. Buy less than 10 pieces of clothing. And have them all be amazingly glorious and things I could easily wear not pregnant with little to no alteration. So far I've bought this amazing dress from Hatch and a [soon to be photographed] tank dress from my sister's shop. It's still on the cooler side here in Florida, but soon enough it will be relentlessly hot and I will want to be as close to nekkid as I can get. Hatch Collection is the the chicest maternity wear that I've ever come across and while it costs a pretty penny, in my opinion, it's more than worth it! I'll keep you posted on my quest to purchase zero pieces of pregnancy gear, save bigger underwear for my widening hips. It's a sad truth. I've accepted it. I'm moving on. In my big girl panties.

Buddha Teas

There is nothing I dig more than finding a new company to love. When Buddha Teas reached out to me, I was all like, "YES! Give me ALL the tea!" Yes, that's how I talk professional like... I'm a big tea drinker and while I love loose leaf, it's not always practical, especially whilst chasing a toddler! I've recently read a few articles that were quite scary about the nonsense that's put into many commercial tea and tea bags! It's shocking! Well, with Buddha Teas you don't have to worry about that! They are committed to a natural and organic product that is actually natural AND organic. Go figure!! And on top of all their awesomeness they are a San Diego company, located in Carlsbad!! #Winning I opted for the Divine Immunity Blend and it's light and delicious. Crisp with a hint of sweetness. When I had a killer sore throat, aka December, I mixed in a spoonful of raw, local honey to help soothe. DE-lish!!!!!

Lastly, can I get an AMEN for the brilliant quote on this particular cup of tea. "Worry seems necessary, but serves no purpose." Preach Buddha Teas!

Fare Thee Well

I really can't even believe it… We are no longer residents of SoCal. I'm in a haze of denial that we won't soon be returning to Sunny Cali back to our church, our friends, and our lives. We had our sweet baby boy while living here and leaving has hit me hard, I'm saying goodbye to the most wonderful hello I've ever experienced. I mostly eat chocolate while crying in bed, I may or may not be clothed, but that's neither here nor there… We are currently in a state of homelessness while we wait to close on our first house and that's making things a little harder to digest. I feel a bit lost. I know this is the best thing for our family and I AM excited, but I'm finding myself needing to lean a bit more on God as he guides us through this transition. I hope I can remain open to new friendships and a new season of life. It's just when you have had it so good, it's hard to see better.

I can't believe how lucky I have been to meet and know the beautiful people I call friends. Some of the most caring and giving souls I've ever met. Thank you. To all of the amazing friends that in their own way changed my life. Made me better. Made me stronger. Made me funnier. Made me happier. Made me, Me.

Thanks Boos.

Blissful Baby, Take 2

Images Kelsey Erin Photography | [Dress] Hatch Collection here and here [Booties] Sam Edelman

Well, the Captain's done it again. We are so excited to be growing our little family, and yes, it was on purpose! Arriving August 2016. Stay tuned to watch me get chunky!

All things San Diego, Part II

So here it is folks… My giant list of all things food in San Diego! The Captain and I are passionate about food and we pride ourselves on being the people you text when you are looking for a new spot to eat! Note: I should say I am a vegan, so every single restaurant on the list, while it might not be a vegan establishment, does offer vegan options! But I assure you, this is not just a list for veggies!!! In fact, out of the 26 spots listed, only 5 are entirely vegan or plant based! Meat eaters, rejoice! I have been compiling this list for weeks!! I am actually salivating after editing this post… I need some tacos… or noodles… or pizza… or falafel… or sheesh, I don't know, for love of GOD GET ME SOME FOOD! Best Coffee Drinks: Cafe Gratitude

Weird answer, I know, but the coffee beverages at CG are among the most original and delicious I’ve ever tried. Their Mocha!? Shut. Your. Face. Their teas and other libations are equally tasty!!

Best Breakfast: Coffee Cup

Not only is the best breakfast in San Diego, but also my favorite restaurant. The rosemary potatoes will change your life. I order the Papas Loco, no diary, add tofu, with corn tortillas. EVERY. TIME. I ate here the day I went into labor and I’m pretty sure it was the jalapeños that did the trick... We eat here... A LOT. Needless to say, the servers have my order memorized and I love them and I will miss them.

Best Pancakes: Moncai Vegan

These pancakes will change your life. Change it. The Captain stands firm that these are the BEST pancakes he's ever eaten in his life!! HIS ENTIRE LIFE!!! You non-vegans will be like WHAT THE HELL!?! I don't know how it's possible to get such giant, fluffy pancakes with no milk or eggs… I don't know how the chef does it, but he does and it is spectacular.

Best Vegan Breakfast: OB's People Co-op

Not only is this the best value in town, these biscuits and gravy are the things dreams are made of! With an entirely vegetarian market beneath, this small kitchen whips up some tasty and simple food that will leave you satisfied and happy! I wish I lived closer to it because I would eat there daily… seriously, I'd do it.

[my beloved avocado roll from Lil' Tokyo]

Best Sushi: Ebisu Sushi Lounge

I love this place. We found this when we first moved out because they had a small, but interesting vegan sushi list, but we quickly became regulars. Their fish is always fresh and prepared in unique ways! The place is rarely packed, but always buzzing and they serve food way past your bed time. [special shout out to Little Tokyo in Carmel Mountain, this place makes me happy. Nothing super special, but it's yummy]

Best Cocktails: WhisknLadle

Fancy and unique cocktails in a fancy and unique setting. Boom.

Best Chinese: Golden City

So after years of looking for a decent Chinese restaurant we stumbled upon Golden City and it is authentic and delish! With a completely separate veggie menu, it was a clear winner for me! Their salted garlic string beans are a thing of beauty!! Note: the portions are MASSIVE and definitely for sharing!

Best Döner: The Kebab Shop

Now, maybe you are thinking, come again!?! But if you have never had a döner you are in for quite a thrill! It's like a Mediterranean burrito and it tastes like heaven! I order the falafel diner, no garlic sauce, add spicy hummus, add fries or rice depending on my mood. [3/19/18 I've been informed that the rice is loaded with butter. True Vegans, skip the rice!] The wrap is soft, almost like a thin naan bread… It is delicious! There are now locations all over San Diego, so no excuses get thee to The Kebab Shop!

Best Salad: NaPizza

The superfood me salad with tahini dressing is literally a thing of the gods!! Their pizza and [always vegan] soup are both magic, but I don't stray from my favorite salad! With locations in Little Italy, Hillcrest, and 4S you are covered!

[delish offerings from Cafe Gratitude. Top to bottom, I am: warm-hearted, awesome, & surrendering][Trilogy Sanctuary, just being awesome. Top to bottom: Nachos and bfast crepes.]

Best Healthy Eats: Tie Cafe Gratitude and Trilogy Sanctuary

Cafe Gratitude makes the list twice. I've eaten at the LA eatery a handful of times and at the recently opened San Diego locale 23,293,090 times. Slight exeggeration. I love love love everything on the menu. It's vegan plant based goodness and I'm gonna miss them like WHOA. And then there's Trilogy, a newer find, located in La Jolla on a rooftop with angels and fairies. OR flying aerobatic yogis. Close enough. The menu is small, but heavenly. I love their buckwheat crepes and the nachos!! OH THE NACHOS!!! Both of these spots are winners, for vegans and non-vegans alike!

Best Thai: Amarin Thai

My buddy Christina took me to this restaurant years ago and I fell... hard. Their Tom Yum Soup is AMAZING. They have an entire separate veggie menu that’s even fish sauce free! And good news North County, Siam Nara in Mira Mesa and Nok in Scripps Ranch are pretty much the same menu from owner Suree! Winning.

[Top to bottom: salad pizza from Luigis and a vegan pie from SDBC]

Best Pizza: Tie Pizzeria Luigi and San Diego Brewing Company

So Luigi's was an early find, after watching a San Diego episode of triple D Guy Fieri swore he'd eat it off of a flip flop, we had to try it. To my delight, I found out that they will sub vegan cheese and even make vegan calzones. The calzones are AH-mazing. But even more surprising is their cheese-less salad pizza. This pizza is the bomb. And dude, all of their cheesy pizzas look amazing!! Oh, oh and when I was very pregnant and wanted to get another slice, the so sweet pizza maker gave me a slice on the house. Two thumbs up. A more recent find is San Diego Brewing! This spot has a crazy amount of vegan offerings along side all of your typical pub grub. They have vegan hot wings AND vegan pizza!!! Who knew!? It is the lightest crust and I just can't say enough good things. The marinara is delish and the toppings are fresh. It's so yummy.

[vegan mezzaluna and the special from Civico1845]

Best Italian: Bencotto

Yummy, fresh Italian food in the chicest building. I love this place. Their arrabbiata sauce and zucchini soup really make me happy. A newbie that I’ve only tried twice is Civico1845, but it is really shaping up to be a winner! An entire authentic vegan menu, um dreams coming true.

Best Indian: Delhi Kitchen 

This is a hole in the wall if ever there was one, but Delhi Kitchen in Carmel Mountain is a killer find! It's super inexpensive and the family who runs it is so nice!! Their Chana Masala is spicy, full of flavor, and oh-so-good.

Best Ramen: Underbelly

Holy. Giant. Bowls. of. Soup. Batman. This spot is legit. They now have 2 locations, but if you can try out the original in Lil Italy it is totally worth it for the experience. The veggie ramen with truffle oil is lip smacking good!

Best Tacos: Don Carlos Taco Shop

One of the first joints we found when arriving in San Diego. Don Carlos is a hole in the wall if ever there was one! The owner is full of personality and with a tag line like “what would Jesus eat?” this place has to rock! And with multiple vegan options this joint is sure to please. We used to pick up food and bring it to the cliffs and watch the sunset with the rich people! Highly suggest it!!

Best Frozen Yogurt: Paradise Yogurt

Best vegan yogurt ever!!! They always have at least 2 vegan flavors and it constantly rotates. Their toppings are genius and they have the chillest employees. Love this spot.

Best Vegan Junk Food: Veggie Grill

The Buffalo Bomber has comforted me many, many a night... or day... or mid-morning. I ate here, nearly, twice a week when I was pregnant. The whole menu is awesome. And I'm gonna tell you right now, you will be surprised that vegan "chicken" tastes, well, pretty much like chicken!

Best Spot for a Group who can't Decide: True Foods

This is the perfect restaurant for a group of folks who just can't get their shit together. It's deceptively healthy, but will please a variety of palates! You can get a bison burger, a seasonal squash pizza[amazing], or [my favorite] the Mediterranean chopped salad. There's an option for the gluten intolerant, vegan, or meat eater in your group. And on top of all of those reasons, simply put, it's a delish and thoughtful menu!

Best Meal with a View: Cordiano Winery

Our amazing neighbors suggested this spot a few years ago and we have been frequent visitors ever since. It's nestled atop some impressive hills in Escondido, but you feel like you are in another world. The Italian owners are the sweetest and their pizza is out of control yummy! The wine is okay, but what you are really there for is the view! I could have sat there for hours!

Best Beach Front: Ki's Restaurant at the Beach

I love this spot in Cardiff. It's the utmost in chill dining spots! We love to go for breakfast and I just love all of their healthy options and there is nothing that can beat the view!!

Best Date Night Spot: Alexanders on 30th

Now there isn't much for a vegan to eat, but the few dishes you can have are totally delish and worth it for the wonderful and sexy atmosphere! It just feels… romantic!? The truffle mac n cheese is a favorite among my friends!

Best Brewery: Ballast Point

We’ve been to a few breweries and this is both mine and The Captain’s favorite. It’s not as touristy as Stone, but is on the larger scale. But with a super tasty menu, DELICIOUS beer, and a beautiful locale. It’s a winner.

All things San Diego, Part I

Torrey Pines | Image Via

As we prepare our family for a big move, there's been a lot of reflecting about all of our time in Cali. This is the first place we’ve been able to settle in and actually live some semblance of a normal life. We love it here and we are sad to leave, but are excited for the next chapter in our lives. I thought it would be fun if I shared my definitive list of ALL things San Diego!!

Best Waxing: La Di Da Sugaring with Kelly

Kicking it off with the good stuff. So the best waxing is, in fact, not waxing, but sugaring. A mixture of sugar, water, and lemon juice applied directly to the skin to remove hair. I could go on for days about how it’s less painful and more sanitary than waxing, but you should just check it out. Owner Kelly Fritz is one of the most magical people I’ve ever met, she just radiates friendliness and can get your who dolled up in record time. I started seeing Emily in the evenings to work around The Captain’s schedule and she’s equally wonderful! These ladies will change your life.

Best Hair Cut: Meghan Noel Salon

I have been seeing Meghan ever since I hit on her in a Robeks. But seriously, I was like, “you have beautiful hair.” She was like, “I’m a hair stylist.” I was like, “give me them digits.” Meanwhile The Captain sits in the car with the dogs confused. I get in the car and he asks, “did you just get that girls phone number?” Perv. The rest is history! With stellar prices and a real knack for hair artistry she’s worth the drive from any part of SD.

Best Facial: Serenity Skin Care

I haven’t been able to make it in for a facial in some time, but when I do Ann Duke is who I call upon!! This lady knows skin! And on top of that, she’s a lovely human being! SSC is run out of her home in Hillcrest and she and her husband, Mario are just as charming as they come! I still swear that her monthly facials are what continues to keep my skin happy and healthy, even years later.

Best Tattoo Artists: Charlie Cung at Guru Tattoo and Shannon Nordin at Remington Tattoo

If you are look for awesome black ink work with a focus on mandala and dot work then Charlie is your guy. He’s so chill and an artist through and through. Shannon did The Captain’s back piece which turned out absolutely amazing. He does more traditional style tattoos! Both parlors are super chic and crazy clean.

Best Botox: re:vive salon & spa

Yep, I’ve dabbled with the tox. I know it’s pretty much the opposite of my healthy, natural living... blah blah blah. Everyone has their thing, you eat a steak a week and I keep my forehead forever youthful. So if you are thinking of getting some enhancements, Kathleen at re:vive is totally who you should see! Not only does re:vive offer the best price in San Diego, [10$ a unit] Kathleen is a rn and a trainer for the company, she really listens to what you’re after. They have a Doctor that works in the office and comes and talks to you before you have your botox injected.

Best Dentist: Poway Dental Arts

The nicest dental crew in North County. I love Michelle and all of the staff! Dr. Rich is such a nice guy and is pretty easy on the eyes too!

Best Work Out: Major tie: The Dailey Method RB & The Bar Method Carmel Mountain

I have had the most lovely experiences with both of these studios. I did Bar Method for nearly 2 years pre-baby and loved the teachers and the method. After baby, I tried out Dailey Method because of child care, but was happy to find another lovely studio filled with wonderful people and a killer work out. I wish I could’ve been a member longer!

Best Hiking: Torrey Pines

So not the most creative answer, but alas the most beautiful and calming. I love hiking by the beach and this hike makes me happy. I also dig Iron Mountain... if you’re in the mood to hike something called Iron Mountain...

Stay tuned for Part II for all my favorite spots to eat! Yes, ALL OF THEM.

Does it even matter???

via

So I haven't blogged-- hell- I haven't written anything in quite some time. Been busy on a little something called living my damn life… Can I get an amen!? I don't know how mommy bloggers with tiny ones do it. Stay connected to their kids, spouse, friends, work, and find time to care about writing a blog. More power to ya sistas.

After many a long talk with The Captain it's become pretty obvious that my issue isn't really time or content, it's wondering if it really matters… Like who really cares?! I have a small and loyal following so it's not to dog on you, but seriously, does sharing my thoughts on food, fashion, and mommyhood even matter... What I've come up with is... No. In the grand scheme of important world shit, it's tiny. But at the end of the day writing makes me happy. I enjoy it. I don't really get the time I once had to write daily or even 3 times a week! Dude, I now write blog posts in the privacy of my bathroom on my cellphone. Life is just different. And it's good. Heck, it's great.

So this isn't happening in a week or even a month. We bought our first home via FaceTime 2000 miles away. So the next few months are gonna be filled with packing, adventuring, and soaking up all our amazing city has to offer before we hit the road. But I'm excited to get back to posting quick healthy meals for the whole fam, showing you our new home and how decorating can be fun and chic even with a toddler and minimal budget, and oh-so much more.

2016 is gonna be a blast.