Why yes, I will have another

Why has it taken me so long to write about this gem of a coffee shop and bakery? Please don’t wait a minute longer to find yourself seated in a stool, eye to eye with their array of delectable treats.

Dangerously located directly across the street from my house, Coffee & A Specialty Bakery is just that – special. Don’t be fooled by the “Coffee” looming in their name, indulge yourself in any - yes, really any - of their baked goods (or sandwiches, or soups, or quiche) and you will not be disappointed. Tonyia Smith, owner and Executive Pastry chef, finds comfort in varying the menu seasonally and trying new recipes nearly daily. This week I finally tried her Tsunami Quiche. Loaded with, you guessed it, a tsunami of veggies and eggs atop of a potato crust was mouthwatering filling. However, I’d have to say my absolute favorite is her Myer Lemon Bundt Cake. Thankfully she doesn’t make them everyday.

Charlotte on the other hand could vouch for Tonyia’s signature Madeleine cookies. Now that she’s a tad bit older, Charlotte knows the bakery routine. She confidently walks right in and over to a stool, eagerly looks up as I put her on it and waits, not so patiently, for her Madeleine and almond milk. However, her loyalty was tested the other day when we stopped in to say hello and Dedrick – Tonyia’s right hand man, and Barista Manager - offered her a treat. Lo and behold the Madeleines were sold out and he handed her a brownie bite.  Since it wasn’t her usual treat, she innocently uttered, “What’s this?” as she briefly hesitated before chowing down. When every last morsel was devoured she signed and begged, rather loudly, for more. I can’t deny this girl is developing her sweet tooth but who in the world taught her these manners? Tonyia and Dedrick are worse than grandparents and gave into her pleas for more!

Honestly though, this is what puts the special in Coffee & A Specialty Bakery, the hospitality. Tonyia and Dedrick, along with family members, keep this little shop toasty warm with their smiles and love. Whether waves are exchanged as folks walk by heading for the elevator or bellies are made happy over a cup of espresso, no one ever walks away feeling unloved. Truly a community coffee shop in every essence, I’m more than happy to participate in Tonyia’s passion for food.

And shh, everything is gluten free!

MY NOT SO PALEO DAY

You can’t go on a road trip without experiencing the food of each destination along the way. No offense but the ease of pulling a mere five feet off the highway for fast food will not suffice.  Yelp it, Google it or dare to be bold and ask a local their favorite spot in town.  I promise you, you and your belly will be much happier.

Since San Diego, I kept hearing about acai berry bowls. What is this concoction, I wonder? I don’t understand this obsession and I’m perplexed this craze is not in the nutty allergy sensitive, health freak city of Seattle. Or perhaps it is….

Foregoing my usual protein laden breakfast, I began my day in Santa Barbara with an acai  Island bowl at Backyard Bowls. This somewhat hearty meal is not yogurt based but a smoothie (blended acai and berries, or even spinach), topped with granola and fruit. As an acai berry bowl virgin, I kept my bowl fairly basic but I have to admit, it was filling and delicious. Sadly, I’m sure these bowls are more sugar than the antioxidants they boast. However, as of right now, I endorse these tasty concoctions. I quite possibly see a new dessert in my future!

 

For lunch, I found myself in San Luis Obispo. With some help from yelp and a few rerouting loops from my google maps, I found Sally Loo’s Wholesome Café in this fun academic town of SLO.

Craving protein, I opted for the sunshine chicken sandwich. Beautiful hefty chunks of chicken and avocado, verdant greens and smoky, crispy bacon stacked high on a ciabatta. Me, not being a sauce kind of girl was a little worried about the garlic aioli, but I was delightfully surprised. Shockingly I even wanted more as it reminded me of something my grandma would make. Simply amazing!

To add to my lunchtime experience, the people watching was top notch.  Nearly every table at the café was taken.  Honestly, I think a case study should be performed at Sally Loo’s on how to occupy nearly every square inch of your café with such a diverse crowd. Students studying eagerly downing coffee, lululemon clad girlfriends conversing over an acai bowl, 30-somethings such as myself hiding behind their laptops, a solo bearded grandpa with his cup of joe and book, the married couple playing hooky, the stay at home mom club, the bible study, the middle aged woman eating her salad. This eclectic population is vibrant, bustling and rather encouraging. In a Zooey Deschanel sort of way, I want to hug everyone, thanking them for making my lunch – and people watching – intriguing.

Being the architecture geek that I am, I also have to comment on the physical place. The blend of aluminum, steel, brick and glass - along with the art lined, light aqua walls straight out of a Victorian home - is tastefully designed to be indie rock modern. Yes, I made that up but Sally Loo’s is exactly that and quite charming.

Unfortunately the clock is ticking and I need surrender my cozy view to get back on the road. My baby belly is full and oh so happy, yet I want to try a drink. At no additional cost I can even add almond milk; or raw milk for $1! It only seems warranted to fully review quaint Sally Loo’s.

 

…..so yes, their homemade chai is delicious. Spicy just how I like it. Let’s hope a food coma doesn’t ensue because this ready to burst lady is getting back on the road. Thanks for the tasty break SLO, hope to see you soon.

slippery slope of vacationing

I’m an advocate that while vacation should be an escape from the mundane routine of work, emails and ridiculous schedules; it should not be an excuse to partake in gluttony and lethargy. I admit it’s not easy to maintain consistent physical activity and a diet abundant in green, leafy vegetables and protein when vacationing, especially when you have to attend two birthday parties.

I started our nine-day trip down to CA to see family – which let me be clear is NOT a vacation – strong. I was determined to steer away from the usual suspects: sugar, grains, and dairy. A little bit of corn and a greek yogurt later, I was adamant that would be the extent of my “cheating.” Activity levels were low but tolerable. Then there was the “paleo” cake I had to make; then I missed a day of working out; then there were multiple trips eating out; an amazing farmer’s market with macaroons; stress; birthday party #2 with box cake and frosting. I was defeated. How? Why?

I could blame all sorts of things. But the bottom line is, I know I feel better, love better, and look better when I eat well, sleep, and move my body. It’s ironic that just two weeks ago Jordan and I appeared on New Day Northwest about working out and making health(ier) decisions when on vacation. Check it out.

So, I will pick myself up tomorrow and start over. It’s never too late. What will you do?

Here I am early on in the trip making the most of what I had accessible - a park! 

i see the light

Marking the first day of summer, I have to admit Seattle, you did well. If you didn’t get a chance to enjoy it, trust me, it’s safe to unearth yourself from the pile of blankets and dust you’ve been hibernating under since October. Promise me you’ll get outside to enjoy the natural beauty only Seattle can offer these summer months.

Seattle Met did the work for me and highlighted some of the great parks in our mighty fine (when the sun is shining) city. Be sure to check out their park round-up here and get inspired to hit the trail and soak up some Vitamin D. 

Scared of lifting heavy things or even looking at people who do? Hopefully this video will dispel any fear you may have toward getting fit/CrossFit. Everyone is welcome and capable of joining our community at our new and beautiful location in downtown Seattle.

I hope you enjoy the Husbanido and I sharing our first - ever - successful moment, not only on TV, but also working as husband and wife. 

Many thanks to everyone who made it possible: King5, New Day Northwest, Stacey and Michelle. 

Are you a Citizen?

Citizen

It dawned on me last night as I was sipping my Honey Almond Milk Latte - June’s drink of the month - that I have sorely left you out of my new favorite coffee shop, Citizen.  Once a week my girls and I gather and close down this little gem on the base of Queen Anne. I’m not sure if there is one thing I could say is my favorite thing about Citizen; between the selection of music (80’s hip hop one night to Bollywood the next), the plentiful and delicious helpings or the closing smells of bacon, it’s all a heaping ball of goodness.

Ok, ok, to be honest, I usually only order a decaf Americano and I’ve only had one entree, BUT the ambiance, the friendly baristas and the finger lickin’ recommendations (try the B.L.A.T) from friends are enough to keep me coming back.

Next time you’re in the mood for a breakfast sandwich at 8pm (breakfast served all day) or a bursting crepe, visit Citizen. On a nondescript part of Taylor Ave by QFC, Hampton Inn & Suites and the Plaid Pantry, step on in to your new best friend.

unraveling my to-do list

On any given piece of paper in our home, be it a piece of mail, paper bag my peach came in, or a post-it note, it is sure to have a scribble or two of the things I would like to accomplish in my day. Nearly every day this list looks the same. Nearly every day only two items are crossed off.

As of late, two words have been haunting me: BIRTHDAY PARTY. It’s unbelievable, I know, but our little lady is turning one in less than a month. Without having someone as excited as I am for the grand event, I’m lacking a sounding board. Even her father thinks I’m ridiculous for wanting an elaborate two-hour soiree. So needless to say I’m quietly bursting inside wondering where to begin, eager to plan the big day. However, the reality is that I’m completely unmotivated and guilt-laden. 

While I still need to pull out some fabulous ninja mom skills and start cracking, stumbling upon this read has helped to put things in perspective. And while I’m at it, I’m so thankful for this reminder.

Shit happens, literally

I wish I could be this humorous about it but I’m not there yet, not today…

In nine short months I’ve had God inspired revelations, all the while Charlotte is covered head to toe in poop. I’ve certainly attained a new appreciation for my Lord and Savior who daily, patiently and lovingly wipes away my proverbial poop. On the flip side, there have been plenty of times I have even laughed, out loud, at this never ceasing task of keeping a little bum clean.

Lately though, we’ve experienced daily baths because two little hands enjoy helping mama change a diaper. Distractions rarely work. It happens lightning bolt fast - SPLATT - ten fingers covered in poop are grabbing hair, ears, and toes. Tears and a wiggly body typically accompany the sly fingers. Derailed from our plans (all my friends who have endured our tardiness understand) we make a beeline to the bathroom to get squeaky clean.

Today, being more tired than usual, I couldn’t laugh. In my sleep deprived stupor, I wanted things to go smoothly and efficient. I was frustated. How could my babe, who is tired herself (she refuses to sleep for more than 14 minutes), so violently deny my loving act of changing her diaper? All around I felt like a bad mom.

Can anyone relate?

With all that said, I’m going to laugh my way through this website. I hope it brings a smile to your face and a hearty chuckle to you as well.

If you find yourself in Maui…

Jordan knew I was itching to go snorkeling.  After getting a list of trustworthy recommendations around Maui, Jordan decided to book our last outing with Maui Eco Tours. When he told me we would be kayaking and snorkeling for three hours, I was already tired. Don’t get me wrong, I love kayaking and snorkeling but I wondered why we needed a “tour” when I could attach a snorkel to my head, walk out of our hotel door and onto the beach to a coral reef. But I digress; our three-hour outing with Maui Eco Tours was INCREDIBLE and a must for any Maui itinierary.

Ashley and Jordan leisurely paddled in a double while I paddled solo for close to 2 miles near Makena Beach. All was quiet on the ocean front for quite some time, but then it happened. A tall whale spout emerged on the horizon. We quickly paddled in that direction and waited. Whales emerge for air every 15-20; we eagerly counted down the minutes as bottle-nosed dolphins entertained us. And then again, this time closer. Two pods were circling us, showing off their young (who had immature dorsal fins) and waving their tails. One pod majestically swam below our kayaks. I’ve never felt so small.

Blown away by all of the creation I just witnessed, I slowly kayaked back toward the coral reef to snorkel. I wasn’t ready for what awaited me. I slithered out of my kayak to see a large, beautiful turtle burrowing in the sand below as two others drifted by. I watched in awe and then went to explore the coral, where another turtle decided to befriend me. As the current swayed us together, we were within an arms length of one another. I had to resist reaching out and hugging this weathered, beautiful friend. Questions stirred in my mind…who would know if I touched him? It’s not like there are surveillance cameras in the ocean. Would I endanger him? Would he hurt me?  But I restrained myself and within a few minutes he swam deeper than I cared to go. While colorful fish danced in schools around me, I had to take a breather. I had filled my ocean creation quota and was overjoyed. 

p.s. I also recommend hitting up Kihei Cafe before or after your tour for a filling meal

Heeding the Call

Not sure why exactly but I’ve been procrastinating writing this post for months. I felt a tug on my heart to explore this idea when we were in Costa Rica – in APRIL! Tonight it has become my mission to finish this thought before 2011 is over….

It all started when we arrived and met George.  And with each passing day, we were in contact with a variety of gracious, fun, life-loving folks who had transplanted to their plot of paradise in CR. It was hard not to be envious of the life they chose.  They were passionate about what they did and what they built.  Each one had a story of travel, of leaving a job, friends, family, and even a country behind. At the end of the day, this complex landscape of immigrants is held together by the thread of each one looking for a better life, of an occupation that would nourish their souls. Away from politics, war, socio-economics, and work-life imbalances, they found themselves following a vision they had for their lives – they found themselves in their own paradise, living their dream. Was this once what the American dream looked like?

With each of these stories there is a response to a vision or call they felt they had to see come to fruition. Perhaps there is a hint of selfishness as they pursue what they consider the “perfect” life on this earth, but it took courage - a leap of faith – to land where they are today. With this leap of faith, it’s not about working harder, but rather responding and pursuing this call. 

 

Let’s meet a few of them:                 

 

George, owner of Alegria Bed and Breakfast

Despite our flight arriving late, George patiently waited for us and greeted us with a smile and helping hand. Originally from the South, George and his wife traveled to CR and decided to move out of the States, tired of the government and war.  Leaving family behind, they wanted paradise for their retired life.  Although his wife passed away a few years ago, George entertains - with southern hospitality - hundreds of folks, filling their bellies with warm and delicious blueberry muffins, fresh fruit and eggs every morning.

 

Good Peeps at Product C

From France to Vancouver, BC to Mal Pais, CR….quite the story.  Read it here.  Regardless of how they got there, this oyster loving, surfing family is here to stay.  We only met Cito and Carmen, but we couldn’t have asked for a better lunch and conversation every day. They even helped my husbanido surprise me with a GF anniversary cake.  So sweet! 

 

Ingrid & Erwan, owners of Korrigan Lodge

This French engineering couple came from Madagascar, tired of living the 8-5+ lifestyle.  They traveled the world and fell in love with Punta Uva and the property where they now run a B&B.  While the trek back to France to visist family is a long journey, they wouldn’t trade this jungle lifestyle for anything.

 

Jenny, owner of Hidden Canopy Treehouses

Burned out by her tech job in Silicon Valley, Jenny knew she needed to get her hands dirty – quite literally – in a new vocation. Months, even years, of career counseling, traveling, scuba diving and soul searching, she purchased a plot of land and laid down new roots in Costa Rica.

Despite claiming her second home to be the depths of the ocean scuba diving, she had a unique vision of building treehouses high in the hills of beautiful Monteverde. Her vision didn’t stop at simply building a spectacular boutique hotel. Jenny sought to provide the best experiences for her guests. From afternoon tea (cocktail style with sweet and savory snacks) to conversations that were anything but superficial to personally getting to know folks in town and testing and approving their restaurants or tours, Jenny pours out her heart and soul into every detail of her home.

 

During our trip I was reading Crazy Love by Francis Chan and since then I’ve read Leaders who Last by Dave Kraft.  Both books offer a wealth of knowledge and ask you to go deep within yourself.  An act I believe all of these folks have demonstrated. So right now, as the new year is starting, ask yourself, “Do I have a vision?” or “Am I waiting to be called to do something?”  - and regardless of the answer: GO, LOVE AND DO SOMETHING!!

 

Quite the New Year’s resolution if you ask me!

what if you knew you couldn’t fail

I had heard about Rudy’s for three days. I knew Pa was desperate to go and needed a good excuse, i.e. a visitor in town.

I had little to go on, but based on the restaurants I’ve experienced the last three years with the Holland clan, I knew Rudy’s couldn’t be all that bad. After all, they enjoyed delicious meals like me. Yet the expectation I had of Rudy’s was far from the reality of our Saturday morning excursion.

On a rather nondescript corner in Emeryville, Rudy’s butts up against the brick backside of Pixar on the northeast end and Emeryvilles’s City Offices on the southeast end. A small parking lot, which was full when we arrived at 9:30 a.m., barely allowed a mini cooper to escape – or at least that’s how well my short-term memory serves me. There was a small line but I was able to get coffee while we waited a mere 5 minutes for our sunny dining spot outside.

Enough with setting the scene and I’ll just come out with it. Rudy’s is awesome. Less “diner” than I was led to believe (unless you want to count the décor) and heavy on a full menu of pure and tasty food.  I ordered a special: Hashbrown Heaven. A layer of hashbrowns under smoked turkey, scrambled eggs, guac and salsa - cheese optional. There may have been more to it but all I know was that it served my taste buds well. Everyone in fact was more than pleased with their breakfast choices. And why wouldn’t they be when Rudy’s will happily create a meal to your liking.

Bottom line: GO! Enjoy Rudy’s for me. We need more solid establishments like this in our world.

Rudy’s is “committed to serving the surrounding community with a fair, honest to goodness eatery that is reasonably priced, family friendly, and that cares about your well being and our planet’s health.”

How can you beat that?

“Love, having no geography, knows no boundaries.”
— Truman Capote

When you walk out of your front door or step out of your taxi in a foreign land or squish in next to someone on a plane, do you think about pouring out love and grace? Who have you loved today? Your daughter, your mother, friends, neighbors, strangers?