"Champagne for my real friends, real pain for my sham friends" (Fall Out Boy)

CAPES [something empowering] You can't start the next chapter of your life if you keep re-reading the last one.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Count. It. Down. What will you be toasting when the clock strikes 12? My favorite drink from the past year is champagne with a splash of St. Germain.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I'm a stickler for New Year's Resolutions, and once gave up sweets for 2 years, so I have to be careful when resolving. For 2012, I resolve to read a bit more and skim a bit less. And finish school.

we are freedom adults, not single adults, thankyouverymuch.

CAPES [something empowering] Does anyone else hate the term "single adults"? Thanks for defining us by what we are not. I've decided to start calling our group "freedom adults". Join me.*

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] They aren't just for your 80's acrylic sweaters...Lately, I've been using my $2 lint buster on anything I can get my hands on! I recently reinstated my favorite Lululemon beanie, restored a few pilly wool sweaters, and brushed up my toggle jacket. Goodbye fuzz!

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I just heard this new tip to avoid razor burn! Simply dust a bit of baby powder on the problem area after you shower for zero burn and zero redness. The powder I use has cocoa butter in it and smells fabulous: Silky Underwear Dusting Powder from Lush.

*While I associate myself with freedom adults, I am in a relationship. Sorry to all my interweb-blogging-hopefuls out there.

if our hearts are never broken, then there's no joy in the mending...there's so much this hurt can teach us both (Snow Patrol)

CAPES [something empowering] People are bound to let you down. Instead of getting bogged down about it, find your joy in the mending.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Making delicious drinks from scratch and listening to this song on repeat....in December drinking horchata...

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Here's an important message regarding Evite/FB event etiquette: If you're the first to respond and you cannot attend, wait a few days before posting your decline. That way, the first thing that future people viewing the invitation see won't be your decline. Also, it's an act of courtesy towards the host of the party.

Gratitude: go back for seconds and thirds.

CAPES [something empowering] There's always room on your plate for more spoonfuls of gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Make a list of what you're thankful for, and then add to it things that people have done for you that you're thankful for. As you watch the list grow and grow, and you'll find yourself truly grateful and truly satisfied.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Speaking of being satisfied...I'm very thankful for the Honey-Caramel Apricot Tart topped with crème fraîche whipped cream. This year marks its fourth appearance at the VP Family Thanksgiving.

cupcake sandwiches and a sweet girl turns eighteen

CAPES [something empowering] As often as you can, avoid the "maybe" reply. "Maybe" communicates lack of commitment, and we see right through your "I'll be there unless something better comes up" cover-up.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Do you own belts that are too big? Or when you wear them over a cardigan, they flare out in an annoying way? Solution: beltloopy.com. Love these.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Tonight I had the privilege of attending the 18th birthday of someone super special, not to mention she is probably the most faithful reader of this blog. The cake for the festive occasion came in cupcake form, and I was so proud to see all the ladies correctly eat their cupcake sandwiches (which allows for equally proportioned cupcake-to-frosting bites).

"No one can be un-cheered with a balloon." (Winnie the Pooh)

CAPES [something empowering] Occasionally, there are no words, and that's okay. Sometimes life calls for a wordless chorus.

"Relationships can be..."

"Sure."

"...but they're also be..."

"That's right."

(George Clooney to Brad Pitt in Ocean's 13)

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] A while back, my good friend came up with the idea to velcro a tube of chapstick to her bed frame. That way, when dry lips came a-knocking in the middle of the night, she was ready. I think I'll use this idea in other places too - like my car (somehow, I always lose tubes of chapstick in my car).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] For those of you in a long-distance relationship...a Scottish designer has the remedy for your heartache.

"I realize why I cannot fly," said the bird with the broken wing, "though my lift is gone, my voice is strong, and I can still sing." -The Elected

CAPES [something empowering] It's not about what you can't do, it's about what you can do. Stop defining yourself by your limitations, switch off your "comparison-mode", and start celebrating the things that you're good at.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Even Twistband supports Movember with their Mr. Mustache Collection.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] No-shave-November now has an official name. Happy Movember!

All rise...

CAPES [something empowering] Power tends to cause suffering. Love absorbs it (Phillip Yancey).

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Forget the yeast, adding a bottle of your favorite beer in its place not only causes bread to rise, but makes it quite flavorful as well.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] All Black Everything! UW plays Arizona in a "lights-out" night game tomorrow night, wearing black from helmet to cleats. It will be hard to find me in the stands of all the fans in black, but I'll be standing next to two good looking people in red (just don't judge them for the colors they wear).

pumped up kicks

CAPES [something empowering] Laugh so you don't cry (sometimes, this works...thanks Andy Davis, and Roomie-room-room-room).

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I've done the legwork, Ciao Bella boots are wear-all-day-long comfortable, Frye boots are unique and stylish, and Hunter wellies are Seattle-rain-friendly. I've got my pumped up kicks and I'm ready for fall.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I love this over-priced item in orange. And I'll dream about it upon my wrist until I can find it on eBay.

There's no weakness in forgiveness.

CAPES [something empowering] Forgiving someone doesn't make you weak. There's no weakness in forgiveness.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Modcloth has fun vintage, indie clothes. The site also gives you the freedom to order a few sizes at once, because whatever you don't keep you can ship back for free. Love that.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I just got this picture printed on a canvas. Thanks Groupon!

Pass the juice, please.

CAPES [something empowering] Reconcile anger, bitterness, and any feelings that turn your insides ugly. But don't feel the need to reconcile relationships that were unhealthy to begin with.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Earlier this year, I blogged about the joys of henna hair dye. But when this brunette tried to turn herself into a blond-bombshell, she turned green with envy. Henna may be natural, but the levels of natural toxins can be quite unpredictable. Proceed use with caution. My new trend is to toss the henna, and stick with Aveda Clove Conditioner.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] A fitness blog I follow likened juice to candy bars, warning to limit your intake of the caloric-liquidy-goodness. So, with moderation I will drink juice and eat candy bars...but my philosophy is "everything in moderation...including moderation".

Love isn't a feeling.

CAPES [something empowering] Feelings come and go, so keep them in check. While it's important to be "in touch with your feelings", they can also manipulate and lead you astray from reality.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Graham-cracker-crust embedded key lime gelato. This isn't a feeling...it's love.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] And like that! it's fall...which means tall boots, ponchos, bows, and beanies...as well as the pumpkin maple cupcake (out in 4 days!).

I submit that the word "xi" should be allowed in scrabble games.

CAPES [something empowering] Whether we are picked to win or lose, TheDawgDude always makes me feel like the Huskies have a shot...not to mention that the [sometimes inappropriate] humor also makes me feel at home. Go Dawgs! Beat Cal!

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Cousin to the well-known Sonic Care, Clarisonic makes my face glow and feel so so good.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Some people play ordinary Scrabble. 860 and I play 9-tile. Yea, we're a big deal.

"When there's nothing left to burn, you have to set yourself on fire" (Stars).*

CAPES [something empowering] Don't wait for others to be your advocate. Sometimes, you have to get out there and advocate for yourself.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] The Skinnygirl Margarita & Skinnygirl Sangria: not quite as good as the real thing, but not bad for 100-ish calories.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] A facial, if done right, is about so much more than just the face. A relaxing room with great music, a paraffin wax hand treatment, steam, masks, exfoliation, shoulder+neck+arm+hand massage...I left the 90 minute session rejuvenated and glowing. From now on, I'm going to try to go monthly...for health reasons, of course. If you want the facial+so-much-more experience, call the Cristy Carner salon and ask for Jolene.

*860: this doesn't apply to you...pyro.

Personal bests are made to be broken.

CAPES [something empowering] There is something very rewarding in having your 30-year-old self break the personal best time of your 25-year-old self. Personal bests are made to be broken: Lake Sammamish Marathon Invitational, here I come!

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Twist Bands won't kink up your hair, and as an added bonus can be worn as fun bracelets.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I love Glassybaby, along with so many others. But here is my "hidden menu" of the not-so-common uses for the handblown glass art pieces: use drinkers as [portion-control] icecream bowls or to organize all your tubes lipgloss, and use your glassybaby to organize your q-tips, cotton balls, pens, etc.

lessons from a 2-year old

CAPES [something empowering] Withholding information based on not wanting to hurt someone's feelings usually ends up hurting their feelings in the long run. It's better to be graciously and intentionally straightforward from the start.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] 24 days until the Pumpkin Maple is back at Cupcake Royale. It's better than you could ever imagine, and definitely worth the countdown.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] My nephew recently learned the word "maybe". While at the cabin on Whidbey, he saw a fish jump. The rest of the weekend, he hopefully asked anyone who would listen: "Maaaayyyybeeee...fish jump again?". There's a difference between saying a hopeful "maybe" and saying "maybe" to get out of an obligation. I'm glad Cooper has learned the prior rather than the latter.

Feeling under-appreciated?

CAPES [something empowering] Instead of waiting around for a "thank you" card, send a "you're welcome" card instead. Let people know that you've noticed them not noticing your acts of kindness. My under-appreciated friend, JPP, will be coming out with a line of "you're welcome" cards soon. I'll blog about them in the "COFFEE" section as soon as they become available.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I love a nice and cold toddy. This beverage throws out the risk burning your coffee grounds by simply marinating them instead. Strain the marination-magic through a filter and voilà! - you've got a toddy (don't forget the 2 pumps vanilla and cream).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I was recently given a shoutout on Lovedog Ranch's blog - a blog I simply adore - so here is me shouting back :) Check out her blog for food inspirations, artistic creations, and fun ideas.

love is not possession but participation

CAPES [something empowering] "It takes a lifetime to learn another person...when love is not possession, but participation, then it is part of that co-creation which is our human calling, and which implies such risk that is often rejected" (Madeline L'Engle).

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Brontibay is one of my favorite French boutiques, and they specialize in small leather goods. In 2004, on a visit to Paris, I invested in their coin purse and wallet, and I still use them on a weekly basis.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Dry your hands completely after washing them to prevent them from drying out and cracking.

compare & contrast

CAPES [something empowering] You don't have to be like everyone else. When your constant comparison mentality drives your life, you avoid the flavor and contrast that you could be experiencing.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I really love using antique gym basket lockers as storage containers.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] The other day, Cooper saw a police car on the freeway, and said "Victor...Victor...Victor...I love you...Victor...Victor...". I know how you feel, Coop.

"They are both good. But together, they are better." (860)

CAPES [something empowering] Smother: memorize and understand this verb's definition, and avoid it in all types of friendships and relationships.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Kate Spade purses are fabulous, but lately I've been loving Kate Spade iPhone cases. I have this one, and this one, and my iPhone currently sports the orange giraffe case. To save a buck or two, purchase on Amazon.com.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] With "operation: purge all closets" accomplished, I now have a space dedicated to Lululemon hoodies/jackets. Seeing this color-coordinated section reinforces 2 things: 1) my love for Lulu and 2) why I don't need more Lulu.

*note 1: a few items are m.i.a...probably in my car...

*note 2: I'm still working on my Lululemon pant section.

wanderlust [won-der-luhst]: a strong, innate desire to rove or travel about.

CAPES [something empowering] Just because you like to do something doesn't mean that the person you love has to like it, too. You can learn this the hard way, or just take my word for it.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] In "summer-bummer" Seattle, you can still sport a sunshiney glow with Jergens Natural Glow Body Moisturizer (but use every other day to avoid the over-glow).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Experience has taught me that there are a few things I cannot live without when traveling overseas:

Nalgene Travel Bottles - to hold my mouthwash, shampoo, vitamins, and more

REI plastic sleeves - like plastic bags, but more durable

French Vanilla International Coffee - for some reason, when good coffee is thousands of miles away, this stuff does the trick

Refresh Eye Drops - in single-use containers

Baby wipes - also known as an African shower

"You shouldn't neglect your gums." (Julia Roberts, Pretty Woman)

CAPES [something empowering] Flossing not only prevents plaque build-up and gum disease, but it also helps fight bad breath. If that doesn't empower you (and you know who you are...) to floss more, then I give up.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Neosporin for cuts, burns, AND...blemishes. Oh how I wish I knew this in Junior High.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] 15 years into my addiction of caffeine and coffee, I find myself finally able to drink drip coffee. But it has to be iced...with cream...and 2 pumps of vanilla syrup (so much for simplicity).

I can always find a way to pack another pair of shoes.

CAPES [something empowering] It is quite magical to hear Lance Armstrong congratulate you on your personal best time for a distance run. Nike+ GPS iPhone application - I'll see you in the morning!

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] When I travel, I use contact cases to spare more luggage space. Instead of taking large items that I only need a tad bit of, I put a few pumps in my color-coded-cases. This way, I can justify bringing an additional pair of shoes.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I leave for Sierra Leone in 2 weeks. This will be my second time to the great continent of Africa this year and second time to SL. But unlike my last trip to Africa and SL, my layover time has been compromised...unless I can figure out a way to get by customs and into the city of Paris and back to my gate in under 1 hour.

the tingle is free

CAPES [something empowering] An 81-year old Texan man gave the following advice to me on a westbound plane after telling me about how his wife had recently passed away: "You hear about people that want to bargain with God, and I get that, because I would give anything if I could only have 15 minutes with her to tell her all the things I should have...Tell those that you love what you think about them. Don't wait. Tell them now."

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Tea Tree Tingle shampoo/conditioner from TJ's. Chemical-free, sulfate-free (safe for dyed hair), and a salon-free price. Love.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Palm Oil = a rapidly renewable resource. Goodlight tealights are sold at glassybaby, and are a good light to purchase if you burn through candles quickly - because you breathe what you burn.

learning to go with the flow...

CAPES [something empowering] If you're like me - dictating every moment with plans - then it's important to balance yourself and go with the flow. And yes, tonight I'm planning to go with the flow.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Toilet seat covers can be used to remove any excess shine from your pretty face. Blot your T-zone, and you're instantly refreshed.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] James Vincent McMorrow and the Civil Wars captivated a packed Triple Door last night. Video clip is JVM's last song, "If I Had a Boat". He'll be back in September with the rest of his band...stay tuned.

My Summer Reading List

CAPES [something empowering] In the morning, as you get dressed and ready for the day, think about the attitude that you want to "dress" yourself in. If you wake up annoyed, try "undressing" that attitude before you walk out the door.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I recently cancelled my cable because of the ongoing feud between Comcast and myself. I have a new-found love for Hulu Plus because I can handle $7.99 per month...and I doubt Hulu will increase the price by an obscene amount unannounced.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] My summer reading list includes:
The Brain that Changes Itself, by Norman Doidge
Everliving, by Christina Dudley
The Great House, by Nicole Krauss
The Help, by Kathryn Stockett
The History of Christianity, by Paul Johnson
Let Justice Roll Down, by John Perkins
Love Wins, by Rob Bell
Reviving Ophelia, by Mary Pipher
Real Boys, by William Pollack
The Street of Crocodiles, by Bruno Schultz

I'm not needy, but I have needs.

CAPES [something empowering] It's important to know the difference between being a needy person and being the type who allows others to take advantage of you. Know your limits. Allow yourself to have needs.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] This wine, with this guy, at this restaurant.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I love the following glassybaby colors together: Sea Foam, Chatham, Taxi, Kumquat, Chartreuse, Beach, Celadon, Whisper, Crayola and Tangerine...and yes, there are three different shades of orange in this combo.

Move over mayo...

CAPES [something empowering] "When I cannot bear outer pressures anymore, I begin to put order in my belongings...as if unable to organize and control my life, I seek to exert this on the world of objects" (Anais Nin).

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I hate mayonnaise, but love gourmaise. Boar's Head Pepperhouse Gourmaise makes mayonnaise so much more than tolerable.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] In my own "world of objects", I have been obsessed with simplicity and organization. This month, Real Simple featured this closet organizer, and I can't wait to purchase it. Also this month in RS, glassybaby was featured on the cover. Big deal. Huge.

Pie, pie...I like pie.

CAPES [something empowering] To wish that someone was just like you is the worst compliment that you can give them.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Broomstick pies: take an old broomstick, cover the end of it with pilsbury dough, cook over a campfire, and fill with butter and honey. They're so good, you'll want to move out to the woods permanently just so you can use it as an excuse to eat them on a regular basis.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Graduate school: year 2 of 3 is days from being completed. But who's counting?

Happy Mustachorial Day Weekend

CAPES [something empowering] Live your questions now. Storing them up will cause an inner traffic jam of too many questions.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Fake mustaches are intense (in tents) and pair perfectly with camping.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Did you know that you can use olive oil to clean wood furniture? The spray kind from Trader Joe's works best for this, and it doesn't have a strong odor like most cleaning agents.

Josie's on a vacation far away...

CAPES [something empowering] Sometimes your plans are ruined. Occasionally, something happens that you would never choose to be a part of your plan. And sometimes life throws you surprises. The "un-plans" are what define us, not the plans.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] The new coke machines at Taco Time are amazing. I love fountain-style Vanilla Coke. And unfortunately, those [super unhealthy] crispy beef burritos love me.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Bon Iver's cover of Your Love, by the Outfield. Brilliant.

"My roots have grown but I don't know where they are..." (The Head and the Heart)

CAPES [something empowering] A few months ago, I was quite sick. I refused to go to the doctor until my dad said "you will spend money to get your car fixed, but won't fix yourself...". Invest in yourself and your health.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Playing darts at a local pub on a weekly (or bi/tri-weekly) basis is my latest addiction. I especially like it when AVP beats 860.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I wonder if the band The Head and the Heart got their name from the encouraging tip to aim for the head and the heart when playing the arcade game Big Buck Hunter. Probably not, but still...I wonder.

Isn't it wonderful what can be accomplished when no one cares who gets the credit. (Don James)

CAPES [something empowering] If you're not ready to physically throw someone under a bus, than you have no business talking about them behind their back. This is a lesson I need to learn and re-learn every day.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Using cheap conditioner instead of shaving cream saves you money...plus I think it works better.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I've already started dreaming about husky football games. And yes, in my dreams, we win every game. Here's hoping that the glory years of the Don James era returns in 2011.

"Remember spring swaps snow for leaves...you'll be wholesome again..." (M&S)

CAPES [something empowering] fear < love

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Wen hair products: the end of ordinary shampoo. Conditioner is better!

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Jack Phillip is 1 week old today!

Be yourself. Everyone else is taken. (Oscar Wilde)

CAPES [something empowering] It turns out that patience is worth it (big surprise here, as a patience-hater). This may not hold true in all circumstances, but sometimes it really does pay to wait.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] This song and the animation blob makes me smile.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] My brother taught my nephew a new word: "peaches"...but through his 2-year old mouth it sounds like another word...

Tangawizi!

CAPES [something empowering] You can't plan surprises. And surprises are so much better than the best of plans.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Swahili is fun to learn...twiga = giraffe...simba = lion...and my personal favorite - tangawizi = ginger. Now you know! Asante sana (thank you very much).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I recently met a 110-year old grandmother who, in her younger years, hunted elepants with a bow and arrow in the African forests of Kenya. She's a rockstar.

I'm like Tinkerbell...I need applause to live! (Rachel on Glee)

CAPES [something empowering] Trying to be someone other than yourself cheats yourself out of being you and cheats others from experiencing the true you. Plus it's exhausting.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Joss & Main is an amazing website that offers designer-everything at up to 70% off. In order to receive these discounts, you have to become a member. I signed up, and was put on a waitlist for 2 days. But the wait is over, and now I'm an official member. Join me by clicking here!

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] What's at the end of your glassybaby rainbow?

Let there be light.

CAPES [something empowering]

Don't give up your power by thinking you don't have any.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction]

My coffee snobbery has gone to a new level: I can now only drink espresso from Ladro, Fiore, and Peets. Sorry Starbucks and Tully's, but you were out of the running a long, long time ago.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy]

Did you know that you are supposed to have at least 3 (yes, 3!) forms of light in each room of your house? Well, now you that know...you are now aware of the necessity to stock up on some cool table lamps pronto.

the online guide to avoiding "that"...

CAPES [something empowering]

Hope is frail but it's hard to kill.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction]

Henna hair dye! Lush has made it possible to have beautifully colored hair without covering your hair with harsh chemicals. Hats off to them...and hats off to unveil those gorgeous locks.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy]

I recently googled the probability of solving a rubix cube in under 3 minutes and was directed to a site titled "the online guide to bedding women". Funny. But gross.

Above vs. Upbove

CAPES [something empowering] Being aware of your issues and overcoming your issues are two different stages. Don't get stuck just being self-aware. Overcome.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I want these and this hoodie (and yes, I'll bedazzle a heart on the sleeve, inspired by you-know-who).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Why isn't "above" spelled "upbove"?

Thump thump

CAPES [something empowering] If you're not quite ready to give your heart away, give a heart poster away. It's truly the next best thing.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Evernote - I use it for blog ideas as well as grad school stuff. It's awesome and yes, there is an app for it.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Speaking of hearts...I have had a heart murmur since I was younger. The doctor told me that it is caused from my heart being so strong that it pumps extra hard and creates a murmur. If you look up my name (Andrea) you will find that it means "strong-hearted". Coincidence? Maybe. Or maybe not.

"We don't see things as they are. We see them as we are." -Anais Nin

CAPES [something empowering] Your perspective is different than mine. My perspective is different than yours. Respect means understanding what it means to interact with others despite differences. To reject diversity simply means you demand others to see things as you see them, which will never happen.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Jaydiohead. A mash-up of Jay-Z and Radiohead.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Documentation of the first time my nephew took a sip of carbonated water. He thought it was funny. And I think he is funny.

40 days out.

CAPES [something empowering] "The night is darkest just before the dawn." Be patient with your night; wait out the dark. Light will come.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Seattle's got soul? Love this basement band, and the blog Sound on the Sound.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] 40 days until I leave for Kenya. Let the countdown begin!

What's on your dollar menu?

CAPES [something empowering] It's important to know your history because sometimes history can repeat itself. But, don't get hung up on the past because the most important history is the history you make today.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Want a 99-cent meal? Trader Joe's rice noodle soup + a handful of edamame + squirt of sriracha + teaspoon of hoisin sauce + a few basil leaves = a homemade cup of pho. Yum yum yum.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Girl Talk is playing the Tuesday night of finals week. I have a final to take the day of and two to turn in the next morning before I board a plane for Kenya. Worth it? Yes. A hundred times, yes.

But hold on to what you believe in the light, when the darkness has robbed you of all your sight (M&S)

CAPES [something empowering] Live in freedom, but don't be reckless with your freedom.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] To study for my Hebrew vocab tests, I've been playing a memory game. Line them up, and once I've memorized them, I flip them over. It's almost fun. Almost.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Brain-fitness is said to prevent memory loss (source). Multi-tasking (like reading while spinning on your trainer) gives the brain an extra good work out. So, don't forget to do this often!

get off your horse

CAPES [something empowering] Steer clear of high horses. You don't like it when others are on them, so don't get on your own.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Lip gloss rings need no explanation as to why they are fabulous.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I listened to this song on William Fitzsimmon's "Derivatives" album all summer long, and now I'm back listening to it. It's tragic, but good. So so good.

Don't cheat yourself out of the truth.

CAPES [something empowering] The truth about the truth is that sometimes it hurts. So we lie to ourselves as a cover-up. Don't do that. Don't cheat yourself out of the truth.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I went on my first major mountain bike ride this weekend (Stinky Spoke) and now love the sport as well as the game my brother and I invented: wheel-tag.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] My favorite gun to shoot is a magnum 44 desert eagle. This is probably because it's loudest at the range and the kickback is so strong that it makes my wrists ache the next day. [Please note that this is intentionally not in the "CAPES" or "COFFEE" sections because shooting guns does not equate power nor does it represent a hot new trend. Please handle weapons responsibly.]

tomorrow you can better your best

CAPES [something empowering] Just give it the best you got today, and tomorrow you can better your best.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] The Cristy Carner salon in Fremont is super-fabulous. Treat yourself to a wax or facial...and make sure you ask for Jolene :)

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I made Cooper a cape for Christmas. He loves Elmo, so of course it features the crazy red muppet.

PS-please note the date and time of this post - it was intentional.

Leave your clutter behind.

CAPES [something empowering] I'm thinking about going to go see Country Strong by myself. Mostly because no one will go with me, but also because is there anything more empowering than seeing a movie by yourself on a Friday night? I'll let you know how it goes.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Start the year off by downsizing your wallet and purse. Get rid of the junk, and see how long you can keep the weight off. Leave your clutter of 2010 in 2010.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I used ancestory.com and found the immigration records of my great-grandfather Paulus Vander Pol. He's the last name on this record from 1910.

delusions of grandeur

CAPES [something empowering] Stop living in your delusions of grandeur. In other words, stop making excuses for people that hurt you. Leave your delusions behind, and start choosing healthy relationships in 2011.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Lately, I have been putting chocolate milk in my high-fiber-but-low-in-taste cereal. It gives the illusion that I'm eating cocoa puffs, instead of something that is actually good for me.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I love this modern décor website. It contains fun decorating ideas, as well as this cool wall sticker I just purchased.