an ode to mothers

"When you're a mother, you'll understand." So my mom told me on many an occasion. I'll be the first to admit that I often rolled my eyes at that statement—sometimes I even laughed. But now I know that I just didn't get it. Being a mother is unfathomable until you're actually one yourself. Nearly two years into the toughest and most rewarding job I've ever had, and I am barely beginning to grasp what motherhood really is. It's not for sissies, I'll tell you that much!

This weekend, I'll be raising a glass to all the mothers in the world, especially my own. You inspire and amaze me.

Mother's Day card by the ever-inspiring Mr. Boddington's Studio
Via The Daily Spark

on motherhood & creativity

Me and the little man, March 2010

My friends at Poketo interviewed me about motherhood, work and the intersection of it all. As you may already know, I think they're the bee's knees, so I was especially honored that they singled me out as a "cool mom!" Read the interview here.

i scream for ice cream

On a 90-degree day like today, there's nothing I want more than to dive head-first into a bowl of ice cream.  I wouldn't mind hopping Mary Poppins-style into this adorable illustration by artist Amy Farrier. Check out her sweet and whimsical watercolors on her portfolio site and blog.

Illustration by Amy Farrier
Via Oh Joy!

canelé

Rama and I celebrated our 8th date-a-versary over the weekend with brunch at a new-to-us spot, and it was love at first bite. I've been wanting to try Canelé since I first heard my pals Greg and Emily rave about it, but Joy's recent review really sealed the deal. I had to go there. 

We got to the neighborhood restaurant soon after it opened for brunch on Sunday, and it was already bustling. We snagged a table in the middle of the restaurant and ordered quickly. We were hungry, and the scents coming from the open kitchen were intoxicating.

I love the relaxed and easy atmosphere. I can see it being a sweet spot for a future date night, but for a family brunch it was just right. 

As for the food? Oh yes, it was pretty wonderful. We started with a bowl of berries with cream, which quieted our hungry little boy. Rama, who is vegetarian, had the baked pancake with meyer lemon custard and a side of roasted potatoes, while I ordered the egg en cocotte, which came with some potatoes, mixed greens and a few slices of toast. (It was tough to choose from all the wonderful egg options, but I had never had my eggs prepared en cocotte, so I had to give it a try. I was not disappointed.) I had a taste of everything, and it was all delicious. I will definitely be back.

Canelé
3219 Glendale Blvd. Los Angeles, CA
tel:   323.666.7133
hours:  Brunch on Sat & Sun, 10am-3pm (check website for dinner hours)

All photos taken with my iPhone and the CrossProcess app

i eat fruit, too

A couple weeks ago, I was craving the juicy, fresh fruit tarts from Porto's Bakery. This little guy hit the spot.