lime of sight

The navel of the world

2012-01-28T04:06:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I had the rare opportunity to take a tour of one of the holiest and most emotionally-charged places on earth: the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

The Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque are located on the Temple Mount, one of the holiest locations for three of the world's major religions. You may not realize (I didn't) that the Dome of the Rock is not a mosque and that women pray in the Dome of the Rock and men pray in the Al-Aqsa Mosque (both located in the Temple Mount inside the Old City of Jerusalem).

Inside the Dome of the Rock is the Foundations Stone (below). Many believe this stone to mark a special gateway to heaven, the place where God began the creation of the earth, the rock where Abraham almost sacrificed Issac, where the Holy of Holies was located in the Jewish Temple, and where the Prophet Mohammed ascended to heaven. The experience was quite moving for me and puts into perspective how complicated the city truly is.

Ride for World Health

2012-01-07T05:04:00.001-08:00

This is my sister, A. For over a year she has been training to bike across the United States--that's right, 3,700 miles--to raise awareness and money for domestic and global health. I'm so proud of her for setting this goal and inspiring others to join in (she is currently on the leadership recruitment team). On top of it all, she is about to complete her fourth year of medical school! What a star.

If you're interested in learning more, donating money, or joining the ride, visit the website: http://www.rideforworldhealth.org/. You can donate to a particular rider by clicking on the "Our Rider's" link. The money they raise will be donated to Louie's Kids, MANA, and SOIL. The riders themselves sleep in middle school gyms, churches, and community centers along the way to defray the cost over the two months it takes to complete the ride.

Can you imagine what good shape they will be in by the end? Do you have any big goals for 2012?

Merry Merry!

2011-12-30T19:49:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to my friends and fellow bloggers. This year we were fortunate to be able to come home for the holidays for some rest and relaxation, good food, games, family, friends, and non-stop Christmas music. Check out my baby nephew, Jackson, who stole the show.

Have you made any New Year's Resolutions? This year I am renewing my "baking bread" resolution from last year. I got as far as baking naan, which has yeast (so it counts), but I never made an actual classic loaf of bread.

I'm also going to

1. sign up and train for a half marathon

2. make tofu from scratch

3. do a detox

4. improve my capacity to remember people's names

5. be funnier

What are some of yours?

Touring with my sister!

2011-12-04T12:33:00.000-08:00

Recently my beloved little sister took a break from med school residency interviews to visit me and my husband in Israel. You better believe we crammed as much as we could into one week including Jerusalem (above), an after-hours soak in the Dead Sea (below #1), hanging out in Tel Aviv (Jaffa Port, below #2), and the Sea of Galilee (below #s 3 and 4). We also went to Bethlehem, Nazareth, Acre, and Haifa.

It's fun to experience new things with family, don't you think? So, when are you coming to visit?

Rain Rain Go Away

2011-11-20T03:56:00.000-08:00

It has rained for a week and a half straight (strange weather for this part of the world), and I'm starting to miss the warmth. Time to bake some chocolate chip pumpkin bread.

In other news, we are the proud aunt and uncle of a new baby boy!! We have total baby fever and can't wait for the next skype date.

This is a picture from a recent trip to Bethlehem before the weather took a turn for the worse. Come back, sunshine!

Marines, You Rock!

2011-11-16T08:22:00.000-08:00

I am usually a pretty stubborn tomboy.* Sometimes [ahem, almost always] I don't even blow-dry my hair in the morning. But when I get the chance, I love dressing up.

This weekend my spouse and I attended a celebration for the anniversary of the Marine Corps. Our Embassy (as are all Embassies) is guarded by a sweet group of Marines, so it is a tradition to have a ball to celebrate the occasion. I have loved getting to know the young men and women who are assigned to our post. I think it's a lovely tradition and a great way to build up the community.

We had a fun time with our friends and coworkers. Little known fact: I LOVE to dance!

*PS: sort of obsessed with the blog Tomboy Style right now. Have you read it?

The Great Outdoors

2011-11-12T01:50:00.000-08:00

Do you like camping? Living abroad, I miss Shenandoah National Park where we used to camp with our friends. However, we've had some good experiences here in Israel, including last weekend. What is your favorite part of camping? Mine is waking up the next morning bundled up in a sleeping bag and feeling so refreshed and relaxed (and looking forward to the campfire coffee!).

We picked up some fresh ground Arabic coffee with hel (a spicy cardamom mixture added to coffee) in Nazareth on our way to the campsite and my spouse made it in our copper Turkish kettle.

Last weekend we also biked in the "soldier ride" with some visiting wounded veterans as part of the wounded warrior project. I don't usually interact with a lot of veterans, so it was a unique and meaningful opportunity.

Let's Catch Up!

2011-11-03T10:52:00.002-07:00

We've got some catching up to do!

This first picture was taken a few weekends ago during a promotional sailing lesson. If you live on the East Coast of America, you wouldn't believe how nice the weather still is in Israel. Although we loved the lesson and were inspired by the skipper's "Do you have a dream of sailing to Greece?" pitch, we need more time to think about it before we commit the time and money for certification lessons.

Last week a friend from A-100 came for a visit, which was a great excuse to go out to our favorite restaurants and try some new ones. We loved showing her our city and hearing about her experiences at her post. Here we are with a group of friends at a winery in the Judean hills.

I know you're dying to hear what we were for Halloween this year! We decided to go as the characters from the movie Drive. David's jacket turned out great, and I wore a blonde wig to be Carey Mulligan. Unfortunately, no one here had seen the movie.

Lastly, we ran another 10K. Remember the Nike Night Run we ran last year? I wasn't as sore or tired after the race this year--which either means I ran slower or I am in better shape. I'm going with the latter option and setting my sights higher: Half marathon anyone?

On Blogging and Modern Communication

2011-10-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

I enjoy blogging so much more than Facebook or other forms of modern communication. I know I don't update my own blog nearly enough, but I enjoy checking up on the blogs I follow--my friends, family, and even some strangers whom I have come to regard as friends. Blogs are like a secret window into someone's life, and a well crafted blog is thought-provoking and engaging, like a good novel. I'll admit, there is a degree of voyeurism and hyper-reality to the culture--many people write about this or that outfit, makeup, interior decorating, crafting, or party planning--but behind all of that is a narrative arc that to me is completely sincere. I don't think I'm the only one who feels this way, but explaining it to someone who is not familiar with the culture is very difficult.

My book club just read the book The Most Human Human by Brian Christian. I highly recommend it! It is all about the author's endeavor to win the most "Human Human" award in the Turing Test: A test where a judge will chat for five minutes with a human "confederate" and an AI chatbot and afterwards guess which is which. The most "Human Human" award goes to the confederate who was able to convince the most judges that he was a human. The book got all of us thinking about what it means to be human when computers and AI are becoming increasingly complex.

I brought up my blogging "hobby" and one of my friends jokingly (but a little not) asked how I know the people who write these blogs are who they say they are. "I know a Nigerian prince who could use some money..." she teased. She has a point, and I was horrified and enthralled by the documentary Catfish (Watch it! I won't give away anything here). It would be very difficult for a chatbot to maintain a sophisticated blog... but a very bored human could exaggerate the details of his or her life or fabricate something entirely. But I've never mistrusted the blogging community...at least not the ones that I read.

What do you think? Do you have a similar relationship to the blogs you read? Have you ever doubted an author's sincerity? Do I live in a gullible la la land?

New Year and More

2011-10-10T11:22:00.000-07:00

We've recently passed several milestones of the Jewish Calendar. For Rosh HaShana (Jewish New Year) my husband and I visited our old stomping grounds: Vienna, Austria. We took advantage of the direct flight and the fact that we had two days off work. Vienna is my favorite city in Europe. Forget Paris or Berlin...Vienna is the place to be. My husband and I studied abroad there and lived there after graduating college. This time when we visited, it felt like we had never left--and we almost didn't want to! Below you will see (1) the "exotischer salat" at the Nashmarkt, complete with the new wine called Sturm, (2) the Hapsburg Palace Shoenbrunn, and (3) the Vienna woods.

For Yom Kippur (the Jewish Day of Atonement) all the streets were closed to traffic and we rode our bikes on the highway to a neighboring town. It was a good workout and an eerie experience. The next day we just relaxed in our apartment because everything is closed.

Celebrating two New Years gives me two chances to renew my resolutions. This year I still would like to learn how to make bread (so far I have made banana bread, honey bread, naan, biscuits, scones, and pizza dough) and I would like to start waking up earlier, reading the newspaper, and walking to work while listening to a podcast or book on tape. We'll see how long that lasts.

Last, but certainly not least, a blogger friend of mine, Kate Miss, recently found out some bad news about her boyfriend. You can read about it here and/or support them by purchasing some of her rad prints as a fundraiser. I have been very shaken by the fact that they are so young, but I also know that young people are resourceful and generous. Please consider buying a print for a good cause.

Thanks everyone and Shana Tova vMetuka (have a good and sweet new year)!

There may be other creatures, but...

2011-09-08T11:57:00.001-07:00

Today I was disappointed to learn that Guinea Pigs do not actually come from Guinea.

The above picture is from Sandros on Wikipedia

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.

Next Stop: Conakry, Guinea

2011-09-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

So, we found out where we will be going next: Conakry, Guinea (the kelly green country between Mali and Sierra Leone--not to be confused with Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, or Papua New Guinea)! Call me crazy, but we bid it high and I'm excited about the job, learning French, and serving in West Africa. It seems strange to be thinking that far into the future. I'm sure as it gets closer to the date, the reality of it will sink in. It is definitely going to be a drastic change from Tel Aviv, and we know that. Be prepared for the content of the blog to change drastically as well--but not for another year and a half!

Send me a note if you have ever been to Guinea or have any tips on West Africa in general.

Bisous!

Thousands Rally in Tel Aviv

2011-08-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

I was exchanging e-mails with a friend and realized that he did not know anything about the peaceful protests going on in Israel. Apparently this has not yet hit the international media in a big way. So for those of you who are not familiar, I wanted to post a few pictures and observations. As everything on my blog, what I write reflects my own personal opinion and in now way reflects official policy.

There is a protest going on in Israel right now. People old and young, religious and secular--though I might add mostly middle class--have come together to demand "social justice." Rothschild Boulevard, a posh Tel Aviv street, has become a speakers corner of sorts for groups demanding lower cost of living (particularly rent). You can also find subgroups demanding rights for Arab Israelis, equal educational opportunities for secular and religious Jews, no dairy subsidies (the dairy farmers are against this), vegetarianism, freeing Hamas' captive Gilad Shalit, and lower cost of living in Israeli settlements in the West Bank. This Saturday night, 300,000 Israelis poured into the streets for a protest March. See the first photo above (credit: AP/Oded Balilty). The rest of the photos and the video are mine.

Roasting Coffee

2011-07-31T06:54:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wanted to roast your own coffee? If you've ever tried the fresh-roasted kind, you know that it tastes and smells so good. My husband grew intrigued with the idea after learning that two of our friends have the same obscure hobby. So, to learn more about the process, we hosted a coffee roasting brunch on our balcony. It turns out there are several ways to do it.

First, you need to purchase your own raw beans. You can order them online from Sweet Maria's, for example. My husband tried roasting his own in a wok on our stovetop, which worked pretty well (instructions here).

One of our friends roasts his own using a heat gun (pictures 2 and 3).

Our other friend uses an old-school popcorn popper (fourth picture), which can be purchased on e-bay for about $20 (instructions here).

What do you think? Would you try it?

Everything Remotely Possible

2011-07-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

Everything Remotely Possible. That is the name of the spreadsheet we made this weekend as a way of organizing our bid list--i.e., the list of 250 possible positions all over the world where we might be sent for my job. My husband named it before we started narrowing it down more precisely to positions that fit our timing and training limitations, but the name stuck and I like it. Now we are starting to research the countries themselves and imagining ourselves living at each one. The funny thing is, we don't have very much control over it. We list our preferences and that's it, it's out of our hands. For less than a month, the world is our oyster. And then we will be assigned one position off the list and it will start to sink in that this is really happening.

I'm embarrassed to admit that some of the cities I had to look up to find out which country they were in. I would have failed Carmen Sandiego (oh to be awesome like this kid). Where would you go if you could live anywhere for two years?

Eating with friends

2011-07-16T05:34:00.001-07:00

I wanted to share with you an online magazine that I am very excited about. It is called Kinfolk Magazine: A Guide for Small Gatherings. The creative minds behind Hearblack--a blog I have been following for some time--are on the editorial staff.

Here is an excerpt from their manifesto:

We recognize that there is something about a table shared by friends, not just a wedding or once-a-year holiday extravaganza, that anchors our relationships and energizes us. We have come together to create Kinfolk as our collaborative way of advocating the natural approach to entertaining that we love.

Although their print magazine is already sold out, the beautiful electronic version is free for browsing on a computer or iPad. I am already impressed by the content, which includes stunning photography, insightful essays on entertaining, and ideas for parties both small and large at various times of the day. Some chapters include links to videos. The entire endeavor is extremely well-executed. My husband and I love cooking and spending time with friends, so we will be turning to this great resource for inspiration. Take a moment to check it out yourself!

www.kinfolkmag.com

Goals Realized

2011-07-05T09:09:00.000-07:00

Here is the final project from my watercolor class. As you may recall, taking a watercolor class was one of my resolutions for 2011.

This project was literally inspired by the work of This Paper Ship.

Goat cheese, I would celebrate you any day

2011-06-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

This week we celebrated a local holiday called Shavout. The holiday is all about the harvest, the ten commandments, and the consumption of copious amounts of cheese. To celebrate, we drove to a famous cave where a family makes fresh goat cheese. Below you will see the cheese we sampled and the goats themselves. Yummy!

Unrelated, but I also got a really short haircut!

The Foreign Service Oral Assessment

2011-06-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

From time to time I get questions from friends or followers of my blog about the third stage of the Foreign Service Exam: The Oral Assessment.

My best advice for the Orals is to make sure that you don't over-think it. Have you read much about how it is organized? On the State Department Careers website, you can read about the 13 dimensions that the testers look for.

There are three major parts to the Oral Assessment: a group exercise, individual interviews, and a timed writing test. The group exercise is the one that probably needs the most explanation.

The group exercise is a simulation of what it is like to work in a group in an Embassy. The group has to decide which projects get funded (or some similar scenario) while the testers sit in the corners of the room taking notes. Before I took the test, I had heard that it was a good idea to volunteer to be timekeeper, notekeeper, moderator, etc. But I actually didn't volunteer for any of those roles, and my project did not get "selected," so don't believe everything you read on the internet. It's how you act and articulate that really matters. Think about the pros and cons of your project and explain them clearly and carefully. I noticed that many people during the group exercise had a lot of trouble expressing themselves. One thing I did was ask other people for clarification. I took notes while other people were speaking. And I made sure that my body language was open (you know, facing the people talking, nodding, etc.). The group exercise is not just about making a speech and then "phew its over." You need to be engaged the whole time, but not in a bossy and aggressive way.

I imagined, if I were posted to some small African country, who would I want to be stuck with? This is probably going through the testers minds. I've sat in on some real-life grants meetings where people are arguing which projects should get funded--so the skills you demonstrate in this test will be applicable in the job. You want to show that you are not only articulate and smart, but also a good listener and a well-balanced person. I know it sounds goofy, but it helped me to think about it that way.

For the day of the test, I packed my own lunch, and I was glad that I had brought something healthy to eat. Some people bring snacks for their fellow testers. Don't do anything that is severely out of character, but do what will make you the most comfortable. A lot of people chatted with each other in between tests (the tests are short and intense and there is a lot of down time), but I sat and read a magazine to decompress.

I hope this helps and good luck to you, dear friends!! If you have any more questions please let me know.

Top Image "Atlas Paper Pinwheels" by Betsy Ryan Hany on Etsy

Dry Shampoo

2011-05-21T03:53:00.000-07:00

I have a confession: I'm not a morning person. And anything that lets me sleep in a little longer is my new best friend. Lately (as in, for almost a year) I have been reducing the frequency of washing my hair. It may sound gross, but it's not! And my hair has never been healthier (my hairstylist said this also).

I've been hearing a lot about dry shampoo on the blogosphere, so I decided to purchase some by Oscar Blandi. I love it!!!! It smells great, gets rid of grease, shine, and bed head (key for someone with short hair like me).

I highly recommend it. Oscar Blandi is a good brand, but I'm sure there are others. Have you tried it? Any thoughts? How often do you wash your hair?

Five Years!

2011-05-16T10:31:00.001-07:00

This weekend my husband and I celebrated our five year anniversary. This accomplishment astonishes me when I think about it. I don't feel that old (I'm not, actually; we got married very young), but I'm also aware of how much we've changed. We have so much fun together, and it keeps getting better! What a cheese-ball. I'll cut to the chase:

We decided to celebrate our anniversary by taking a trip to Athens, Greece. Most weekends we just sit on the couch and catch up on episodes of 30 Rock or Glee. But we wanted to splurge because five years is a big deal.

And we couldn't have picked a better weekend getaway. Athens is so cool! The geek in me loved the archeology sites, museums, and mythology. Seriously, I'm inspired to read up on ancient Greek history (any book suggestions?). The foodie in me loved the tavernas, souvlaki stands, and street cafes. A friend of mine who lives in Athens gave us some awesome tips and took us out to a traditional greek meal. We booked a cute hotel room within walking distance of the Acropolis and played love-struck tourists for three days. Here are some highlights:

Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity

2011-04-30T06:11:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from our recent excursion to the West Bank town of Bethlehem. We visited the Church of the Nativity, which is one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world and, according to tradition, marks the birthplace of Jesus. The first basilica was built in 327 AD by Constantine's mother, subsequently burnt down and was rebuilt in 565 AD. Supposedly, when the Persians invaded the region in the early 600s, they spared the structure because a mosaic inside the church depicted the three wise men wearing Persian clothing.

Looks peaceful enough, right? Wait for it...

When we got to the grotto of the nativity, there amassed a crowd like we had never scene before. We were waiting our turn patiently when a tour group of at least 75 old ladies (not Americans) arrived and elbowed their way in front of everyone, moaning and not making eye contact with any of the other visitors. The photo below is actually before these women arrived (if you can believe it!!). I was so incensed (and also feeling extremely claustrophobic) that we bailed on the grotto.

Besides that weird experience, Bethlehem is a nice town and easy to get to from Jerusalem. I'm sure we will be back to visit some of the other attractions and to shop for souvenirs for our families!

Worth the Climb

2011-04-16T03:26:00.000-07:00

Recently my two Aunts flew across the ocean for a brief but action-packet visit. While they were here, we set off on a road trip across Jordan that culminated in Wadi Musa, the home of Petra.

Some of you may know Petra as a UNESCO World Heritage Sight, archeological treasure, and home of the ancient Nabataean civilization. Still others--if you're like me--may know if from the film "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade."

I had been looking forward to this trip for months. And even with my high expectations, Petra still blew me away. I can easily say it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. If you ever get the chance to go--do it!

Jordan itself is very accessible to foreigners. Every Jordanian knows at least two phrases in English: "Where are you from?" and "Welcome!" And most people who work in the tourism industry speak English well.

The pictures are of the Treasury, the High Place of Sacrifice (well worth the hour hike), and a donkey that mistook my camera for food.

Considering Current Events

2011-03-19T16:47:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I updated my blog. I've been to America and back and on a short trip to Jordan.

Meanwhile, Egypt, Bahrain, Yemen, Libya are all undergoing revolutions with varying degrees of success. As I'm writing this, American and European forces are organizing a military intervention in Libya.

Japan has suffered through an earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster.

I have been on a hiatus from my Google Reader for Lent, but I wanted to update my blog to tell you about my friends Joel and Ashley who designed a poster to raise money for the American Red Cross efforts in Japan. They are donating 90% of the proceeds, and they have already raised $1,000! Please consider visiting their website and buying one: http://thispapership.com/a-thousand-paper-cranes-for-japan.

The concept behind their poster is the Japanese legend that if you fold a thousand paper cranes, you can make a wish and it will be granted. I first heard about this legend at the 9-11 memorial museum in New York City. They have on display a thousand paper cranes folded by a child suffering from radiation poisoning after Hiroshima. After 9-11, she donated the cranes to New York along with a wish for world peace.

Attempting Japanese Cuisine

2011-01-08T02:12:00.000-08:00

For two people who have never been to Asia, my husband and I sure cook a lot of Asian food... Which is why we were so excited when our friend, Dusty, gave us the Wagamama cookbook as a gift for hosting him on his recent trip to Israel.

The three of us spent a summer in London in college where we became acquainted with the Japanese chain restaurant Wagamama. We recently attempted the first recipe out of the cookbook, a miso ramen soup. We couldn't find all of the ingredients (the local health food store is under renovation) and we substituted tofu for chicken, but the end product was very tasty!

Bon Appetite; or, as they say here, "B'tai Avon!"

A tribute to 2010

2011-01-01T02:09:00.000-08:00

Hello blog world! It's been a while... as in, two months. But I promise to do better in 2011. And to demonstrate my commitment, I've compiled a video tribute to 2010. I hope you enjoy!

Things I'm looking forward to in 2011: Our vacation to the States, friends and family coming to visit, rotating positions at work, taking classes in classical ballet and watercolor, learning how to make bread, reading at least one poem a day, and skyping and blogging more often.

Happy New Year! Love, D&E

My First Project: A Year in Pictures from limeofsight on Vimeo.

Music by The New Pornographers and Mates of State.

How to pick an olive

2010-11-02T13:26:00.001-07:00

Since I now live in the land of ~~milk and honey~~ olives, I have seen more olive trees than I could have possibly imagined. But until this weekend, I was unclear about the whole process of how the olives get off of a tree and turn into the delicious things that you eat and cook with.

This weekend, I went on a group tour of an olive grove in an Arab village in the Golan. In this village, the inhabitants use olive oil for every meal. They even eat a spoonful of olive oil daily before breakfast and use olive oil to moisturize young and old.

The trip was labeled an "olive picking" adventure, but I'm afraid we were terribly inefficient. We painstakingly plucked several bucket-fulls of "ripe" olives only to find that the real way to get olives out of a tree is to thrash the tree with a long stick. We sorted the olives into green and purple and picked out the leaves and sticks that were also dislodged in the thrashing. FYI: green olives are actually just unripe black olives.

Next we smashed each individual olive and filled our jars with olives and water. After soaking for 24 hours, we made our own saltwater brine mixture and placed hot peppers and olives in the jar with the olives. We have to wait 2 weeks before we can eat them. Pictures and recipe to come if they turn out. Crossing my fingers!!

My First Race!

2010-10-16T06:13:00.000-07:00

Friends, I have some exciting news to share with you. Last week I completed my first race! I participated in the Nike Night Run 10K on 10/10/10. I am by no means an athlete, but I have been training for a few weeks and I was proud to have run the whole thing. Some of my friends completed the course in less than half my time. But in the end we all got medals and popsicles and had so much fun. Sign me up for another!!

Impressions of the Old City

2010-10-11T01:12:00.000-07:00

I am at a loss for words to describe my first visit to the old city of Jerusalem. It is hard to believe that only 60 Kilometers (37 miles) East of where I live, the country is so starkly different. This was no walk on the beach.

I don't know what I expected from the city, one of the oldest in the world, that has been captured and recaptured 44 times, a sacred site to three of the world's major religions, and the epicenter of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. What I experienced was a flood of emotions impossible to process.

My friends and I started our tour on the ramparts of the old city (built during Ottoman rule), from which we had beautiful views of the rooftops of the city. We covered our shoulders and descended into the Old City via the Lion's Gate (where Israeli paratroopers recaptured the city during the Six Day War) and started walking the Via Dolorosa, or the last footsteps of Christ. By the fourth Station of the Cross, we were completely exhausted by the historical significance of EVERYTHING.

We changed course and visited the Wailing Wall, or HaKotel HaMa'aravi, the remnants of the Jewish Temple where Jews from all over the world take pilgrimage to place prayers in the cracks of the stones. Directly behind it lies the Dome of the Rock, one of the holiest sites in Islam. We could hear the sound of their prayers echoing across the square. It struck me how these groups with conflicting claims have not finished negotiating what a future co-existence will look like.

After living in Tel Aviv for two months, this visit made me realize how complicated and diverse the country is. I'm glad that I went, and I know I will go back frequently with friends and family and to visit the sites that I missed: the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Armenian Quarter, and much more. Next time I will be prepared for the emotional heaviness of the place and I will pace myself.

Tips of the Trade: Argan Oil

2010-09-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

Before I left DC my hairdresser Angie turned me on to a wonderful product called Argan oil. Argan oil is derived from the nut of a UNESCO protected tree that grows in Morocco. It is harvested for sustainable growth and it is produced by a women's coop.

This wonder product has antioxidant properties and Vitamin E and is used for both cosmetics and flavoring. I can only speak for its use as a daily leave-in-conditioner, but boy does it work miracles. A tiny drop and my hair is protected from the sun, from heat styling, and feels soft and smooth all day. I'm convinced it allows me to go longer between showers, but this has not been verified. Unlike Jojoba oil, I can leave Argan Oil in my hair with no greasy residue or unpleasant odor. No more itchy scalp; no more frail, brittle hair. I highly recommend this product, even to men!

Here are links where you can purchase it in the States at Sephora (Josie Maran Argan Oil) or the less expensive version at Sally Beauty Supply (One n Only Argan Oil Treatment). Farmers have started to plant Argan trees in the Negev desert, but I haven't yet decided on the best local brand.

Do you have a favorite beauty secret? Do you love using natural products? Do share your tips!

Happy New Year!

2010-09-18T14:38:00.000-07:00

It is the time of the high holidays in Israel now. Seriously, the month of September is FULL OF HOLIDAYS. That means a lot has happened since my last blog post. We're continuing to explore the city, finding new restaurants, grocery stores, and street markets. I'm happy to report that we're making good friends already. And I am finally starting to get the hang of my job. I'm getting faster and asking my colleagues less annoying questions throughout the day. We've had some pretty exciting moments over the past two weeks, which include:

1. Attending my first "national day" as an official American diplomat. My husband and I went to a celebration for the independence of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.

2. Sitting on the port and eating brunch for literally three hours. It was so relaxing, I think I could have stayed there for days. In fact, we have had several great dining experiences and are itching to get the rest of our cooking supplies so that we can have friends over for home-cooked meals.

3. Walking in the streets of the city... literally walking in the middle of the street. Today was Yom Kippur when the Jewish community fasts and dresses in white. No one is allowed to drive a motorized vehicle and everyone goes out into the streets walking, roller blading, and riding bikes. What an eerie and peaceful atmosphere!

So much is happening so fast! I had a dream last night that all my friends from DC showed up unexpectedly for breakfast and we sat on my porch drinking coffee. What a wonderful thought...

By the river

2010-09-10T07:40:00.000-07:00

The colors of this scene caught my eye during a recent walk down the Yarkon river. I was on a rowing team for four years and toyed with the idea of joining a club here. I haven't seen any actual crews on the river yet. It is too hot to do anything athletic except in the early morning.

Alternatively, I found the perfect yoga studio around the corner from my apartment. Whatever I choose, I need to get my butt in motion. What do you think?

Mountains or Beach?

2010-09-08T08:04:00.000-07:00

"Are you a beach person or a mountain person?" A friend asked on one of my last nights in DC.

"I like both." I responded, without much though.

"But, you can't be both. Which would you be if you had to pick one?"

"I guess beach... or maybe a giant lake by a mountain... to live or vacation? Wait, why can't I be both?"

Having lived near the beach for almost a month now, I still can't decide. Can't a girl just be both?

In the neighborhood

2010-09-03T08:16:00.000-07:00

There are lots of lovely things about our neighborhood, including this chic vespa. Oddly enough, vespas are not as common here as I would have expected. Most of the women drive these large, fearsome motorcycles... on the sidewalks.

A Sidewalk Breakfast

2010-08-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Our first weekend here we went to breakfast at a little French restaurant. We loved it so much we went back for dinner this week. I was so pleased to have found French Press coffee (I'm not a huge fan of espresso). Medium ground coffee is difficult to find. Whole beans... haven't seem any yet.

My first impressions of Tel Aviv are that it is a very sophisticated and nuanced city. There are many facets to it, and I'm only beginning to get a sense of things. Along the beach people walk around with bathing suits and cover ups constantly playing some game with paddles and a ball. The gay beach is next to the Haredi beach is next to the dog beach is next to the quiet family beach...

Come a couple blocks inward and you wouldn't even know it was a beach town. People dress like southern Europeans with a lot of flowing, loose-fitting clothing. The sidewalks are crowded with people walking their dogs and children in strollers. There are juice stands, cafes, falafel stands, gelateria, and upscale restaurants and stores. And lots of cute (but feral) cats.

I'm trying to get together a collection of shots that capture the spirit of the city. I'll share some more with you soon.

Moving Postcards!

2010-08-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

They say moving is one of the most stressful life experiences. Don't get me wrong, it is exciting, but it is also bittersweet to leave all of one's friends and taxing to keep track of the endless details. Joel and Ashley of This Paper Ship have made the moving process much more pleasant with their custom moving cards. We recently asked them to design something for us to commemorate our first big move and to send to friends and family.

If you are moving soon and would be interested in commissioning something similar, check out their Studio website and etsy shop. They design maps for all occasions and offer many other freelance photography and design goods! I adore their aesthetic.

(I'm sorry we couldn't send postcards to all of our friends. If you read this blog and you want our new address, let me know).

More updates to come!

Be Careful What You Pack

2010-08-10T07:51:00.001-07:00

Friends, so much has happened since my last blog post. We have been easing into this move for over a year now, but it didn't feel real until last Wednesday when five strangers showed up at our house and packed all of our belongings into boxes to be shipped overseas. Three and a half hours later, our house was empty.

While there are definitely some things I would have done differently, overall we had a great experience. The packers were fun, courteous, and extremely fast. If I could do it all over again, I would pack more in the air baggage. It gets there much faster than the crate shipment that travels by sea. We only used half of our weight allowance, and I forgot to pack ANY books or Hebrew dictionaries. Or hangers.

After saying goodbye to friends and family in DC, we traveled to Newark for my job. Luckily, we have friends in Brooklyn who welcomed us to their city and made our last few nights in America memorable.

After arriving in Tel Aviv, we were greeted by this view from our balcony. We're still getting used to things here, but I think it's going to be a great two years!

I passed!

2010-07-31T06:56:00.000-07:00

I took my end-of-training language test on Friday, and not only did I pass, but I got a score higher than what was expected. I want to continue studying once I get to Israel, but I'm so relieved to have this test behind me.

Now comes the preparation for the move next week. Dave purchased neon duct tape to label everything (by air, by sea, or storing at in-laws). We have so many random tasks to take care of between now and then that include getting Dave's suit re-weaved, taking our car to the auto shop, and deciding what to do with our wedding photos (still not scrap-booked).

What would you bring with you? Would you leave behind the things that are irreplaceable? Or would you bring them with you because what's the point of having nice/sentimental things if you can't enjoy them?

Have a great week, friends! Mine will be full-to-the-brim, but hopefully fun and exciting as well.

You Are There

2010-07-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

My friend Lauren posted this poem the other day, and I am going to repost it because it seems very appropriate. My move is rapidly approaching, and I just need to be in the moment and enjoy the days as they come. As my friend David said, "You are about to embark on a great adventure. All of your training has led up to this, and you will never again depart for your first post."

You Are There

by Erica Jong

You are there.

You have always been

there.

Even when you thought

you were climbing

you had already arrived.

Even when you were

breathing hard,

you were at rest.

Even then it was clear

you were there.

Not in our nature

to know what

is journey and what

arrival.

Even if we knew

we would not admit.

Even if we lived

we would think

we were just

germinating.

To live is to be

uncertain.

Certainty comes

at the end.

Can't help myself

2010-07-19T14:20:00.001-07:00

Here are a few more beautiful pictures from the weekend. I didn't have any close ups of the bride and groom. Enjoy!

Photos taken by Bill Mapes, a close friend of the family. Please do not reproduce.

Tying the Knot with Pizzazz

2010-07-18T14:12:00.001-07:00

This weekend we celebrated the wedding of my sister-in-law and new brother-in-law. The couple partied through the summer heat surrounded by their best friends and caring families. I love this simple picture of Cait bursting into laughter. To me, it embodies the whole spirit of the wedding.

Here I am getting some ink to commemorate the event.

Big Meadow

2010-07-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend I went camping in Shenandoah National Park. We used our new tent--and thank goodness David taped the seams because there was an epic thunderstorm Friday night. Despite the rain, it was a wonderful weekend with friends and family (my little brother was in town) and I feel refreshed and ready to tackle S.I.L.'s wedding, language exam, and our Big Move. Below is my favorite picture from the weekend. I posted more pictures from the weekend on my Facebook page for those of you who know me there.

A surprise shower!

2010-06-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

Happy wedding shower to my sister-in-law!!!! This weekend her best friends threw her a beautiful shower with lots of sweet treats, presents, and games. The best part? She had no idea it was coming.

Congratulations, Cait! I'm so excited for your big day.

Love,

No use crying over spilled ink...

2010-06-10T18:48:00.000-07:00

although I did, I'm embarrassed to say.

I recently spilled ink on a new pair of white Levi's and boy did I get angry. I tried to explain to my husband that white jeans were something symbolic. I tried to explain how dainty and fashionable I felt wearing them - like a woman who never spills ketchup on herself (false) and who always looks crisp and put together (false).

Tears, bleach, and a bucket of oxyclean later, I now have a pair of white jeans with a gray spot that I have accepted as permanent.

So, my creative and fashionable readers, do you have any suggestions of what do do with them now? Dye? Distress? Buy a patch? Give up and donate?

The witching hour

2010-06-08T17:44:00.000-07:00

My aunt came to visit me this weekend and we had a wonderful time exploring the city and going to all our favorite museums and restaurants. The picture below is from the Brian Jungen temporary exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian. We were all mesmerized by the way he turned everyday object into fantastical sculptures.

I'm now in the witching hour of Hebrew training. It is difficult to wrap my mind around the fact that I am nearly finished. My weekends are filling up before my eyes. And I continue to have mixed feelings about leaving DC (especially after such a wonderful weekend with my Aunt). I love this city and it will be so difficult to say goodbye. On the other hand, I finally got my housing assignment and all I can say is: come visit me PLEASE! You won't regret it.

Weekend in West Virginia

2010-06-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend we went to West Virginia to stay in a cabin in the woods with some friends. We grilled hamburgers, played bananagrams (yes, we subject everyone we know to this game now), and hiked A LOT. We spent time with two different couples--old friends and newer friends--and it was cool to see how the dynamic changed depending on who we were with. One is silver and the other gold, right? ;)

Also, we only saw a box turtle, some small fish, and a fox (allegedly...I didn't see him). This may have been a fluke, but I am tempted to conclude that there is a strange dearth of wildlife in West Virginia.

Living without cell phones or internet is pretty cool (except when we got cell reception in the middle of a hike and reverted to our old ways).

I hope you had a wonderful memorial weekend!

Repotting Things

2010-05-17T20:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend we repotted all of the plants in our house. The ZZ plant (in the forefront of the picture) started out as a small shrub when we first moved here. Now it has become two enormous plants, each taller than a window pane. It's amazing how things continue to grow even when you forget that time is passing. This must be how it feels to have kids, or a dog.

We packed them all neatly in soil we bought from Home Depot, preparing to pass them on to friends and family to keep while we are abroad. One shouldn't grow too attached to things. While I was shaking all the old dirt out of the roots I was reminded of a post by my friend AL about restlessness. Perhaps we too need to be shaken out every once in a while lest the soil grow mold.

Four Year Anniversary!

2010-05-14T15:34:00.001-07:00

Yesterday my husband and I celebrated our four year anniversary. I seriously cannot believe it has been that long. We went out to dinner and had a nice relaxing evening. I'll try to spare you the sentimentality, but being married can be truly wonderful if you find the right person ;).

Have a fun weekend, friends!

Wall art available for purchase from Simple Shapes on etsy.

A Shortcut to Europe

2010-05-10T18:54:00.000-07:00

Or, the day I stood in line for hours just to eat a bratwurst inside the German embassy.

This Saturday the residents of DC came out en masse to visit the embassies of the European Union during a special open house event. My group only visited the German and French embassies because the lines were so long. If you live in DC and are thinking of going next year, I would recommend the embassies of Central and Eastern Europe (they are far less crowded and the food is free, wink wink).

Hope your weekend was fun, too!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T16:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to my mom and to all the mothers out there.

You are a beautiful, courageous woman with more energy than anyone I know. I hope I can grow to be more like you.

A sidewalk garden

2010-05-06T16:11:00.001-07:00

Today on my walk home I took a different route and then came across this beautiful garden that a neighbor has planted on the outside of her fence. I literally stopped to smell the roses and it put me in a wonderful mood. As I was taking this picture she pulled up in her car and I thanked her for planting it where we all can enjoy.

Faith in humanity, restored :).

Isn't it nice how the simple things can make such a difference?

Let's call this the comeback

2010-05-05T11:10:00.000-07:00

So, I haven't updated my limeofsight in a while and I don't really have a good excuse. What can I say? I don't want to bore you all with the mundane details of my life, but I also don't want to neglect my blog.

We've been keeping very busy trying to spend as much time as we can with all of our friends in the city, but this weekend we were exceptionally busy: going away party for A-100 classmates, LA-style tacos double date with some dear Maryland friends, a book release party, a birthday party on the town for my fabulous workmate, and an Israeli themed brunch party (including Smitten Kitchen's Shakshuka, i.e. eggs poached in spicy tomato sauce). I really should be bringing my camera to all these things and documenting them. I'll do better in the future. Do you believe me?

We topped off the weekend with the Shout Out Louds, a Swedish indie rock band, who played a show at the 9:30 Club. I love their song "The Comeback," and I've been singing it to myself the past few days. We can call this my blogging comeback.

Picture by concert photographer Sean O'Kane, found via The House List.

Bring on the Luck!

2010-04-21T18:59:00.000-07:00

I've found two four leaf clovers in one week. I wonder what that means? I'll let you know when I find out.

My New Favorite TV Show

2010-04-20T15:18:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the new series Treme yet? So far I am obsessed with it. Just watch the trailer and you will understand why. It is from the creators of The Wire, another show that I really enjoy, and it has the same level of awesome character development, complex storytelling, and great acting as that celebrated series.

If you don't have HBO (I didn't either until my wonderful landlords decided to share their cable) you can come over to our house and watch it with us... or at least rent it when it comes out on video ;).

I have half a mind to pick up the trumpet. But my landlord probably wouldn't appreciate that...

A very special visitor!

2010-04-12T14:24:00.000-07:00

My wonderful little sister took a break from studying this weekend and flew in to spend the weekend with me. Since my husband was in Denver for a conference, we felt free to engage in plenty of girly activities. We went shopping, of course, and visited Eastern Market. But you would be proud of us for hiking 10 miles on Saturday!

We had dinner at Eatonville, a whimsical and hip restaurant near U street devoted the life and works of Zora Neale Hurston (one my my favorite authors). It seemed fitting since both my sister and I attended undergrad in the South and have a southern Granny who cooks up a storm every time we visit. There has been a lot of buzz about Eatonville, but it definitely lived up to my expectations.

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!! I've been smiling all day even though it's a Monday.

For all you chronically clumsy BPA-phobes

2010-03-30T19:43:00.001-07:00

If you've seen someone walking down the hallway delicately balancing her coffee in the ceramic mug she brought from home - that knucklehead was me.

Until about a week ago (when my husband and I broke down and purchased these ceramic to-go mugs from target), I would spill coffee on myself on a daily basis. My commute to work consisted of David yelling "bumps" and me desperately trying to maneuver my mug in such a way as to keep the liquid inside. Needless to say, most of my jackets smell like coffee on the arms.

That's why I wish I had known about this device sooner: the mug hug! This silicone lid fits on most household ceramic mugs. Such a GENIUS idea! I'm sorry I didn't invent it first.

If your heart lives in...

2010-03-29T14:16:00.000-07:00

Jewelry designer Truche on Etsy has a series of necklaces dedicated to the locations near and dear to our hearts (i.e. most states in the United States and some foreign countries to boot). Check out her shop!

It's no secret that I love Ohio. Another piece of my heart lives in Tennessee... but that's another story altogether. I'm very happy with my life right now, but I have to admit it is hard living so far away from my family. Thank goodness for cell phones, c-mail, g-chat, facebook, etc. Nevertheless, sometimes I wish I could give them all a big hug!

"And where the journal may lead you

let this prayer be your guide

though it may take you so far away

always remember your pride."

Kudos to the person who knows where this quote comes from. (Amanda, you don't count.)

Yes, I am a dork and I embrace it.

Let's Keep Moving!

2010-03-23T15:14:00.000-07:00

David tore me away from my books this weekend for two beautiful bicycle rides along the potomac river. "How can you even think about studying with weather like this?!" (The answer: I'm super neurotic, but lucky to have a husband like him).

Last summer we biked to the National Mall almost every weekend, and I hope we can keep that trend going. I can't wait to get in shape and enjoy the fresh air. Some of my friends even bike to work. While I really admire their resolve, I could never pull it off myself!

What about you? Do you enjoy biking or other outdoor activities? Can you believe Spring is already here?

TemptAsian Cafe

2010-03-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday, everyone!

I wanted to share with you one of my favorite meals in the DC area. About once a month some friends and I drive to TemptAsian cafe in Alexandria for excellent and inexpensive Szechwan food. We always order a dish called "Boiled Fish," Mapo Doufu (pictured below), Szechwan Chicken, and an assortment of vegetables such as eggplant and green beans. It is amazingly spicy. I'm not kidding - you will sweat. But it is sooooo worth it.

We went there this week and I was reminded how awesome it is to sit down and slowly enjoy a meal with good friends. If you're in the area and ever want to go, just let me know and I'll be there!!

PS: There are some really good restaurants in the DC area. If you want to get creative and try something new, I would recommend browsing Tyler Cowen's Ethnic Dining Guide. He is a real genius when it comes to finding great food in unexpected places. He also offers tips on what and how to order.

photo credit

Come with me, go places

2010-03-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

"Yes a heart will always go one step too far." - The New Pornographers

Friends, my heart has been heavy this week. From escalating tensions in the Middle East reenacting themselves in my classroom to extremely difficult and intimate news from a dear friend, there has been so much to ponder. Is is always true that things become more difficult and complicated the older you get? Well, at least some things, such as love and friendship, grow stronger and more effortless over time.

But why not look on the bright side? In the long term, we are becoming friends with a sweet couple who will be joining us in Israel. This will make the transition much easier. In the short term, we are going to see tons of friends this week because it is UMD spring break and we've planned some fun activities (Even though I have to work, and Dave doesn't really get a break since he is working on his thesis).

Thanks so much for keeping up with me even though I've been a spotty blogger lately. Hope you all have had a wonderful weekend! Xoxo

"Grey Day" print by the talented Lisa Golightly of kikiandpolly - available for sale here on etsy. I'm a fan. Check out her blog!

Things I'm Loving Lately...

2010-03-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

In no particular order:

1. It's March and warm weather is around the corner; I can smell it.

2. Babies! Our first A-100 baby was born. Welcome, Simon! ("A-100" is like a club/battalion in the foreign service).

3. Canceling everything for a spontaneous date night with my honey.

4. This dress came in the mail this week:

5. Meeting a Holocaust survivor - what an inspirational and moving experience.

6. Vegetarian powerhouse salads for lunch. Bring it on, language classes!

7. Living close to our friends. I can't believe we will be moving so far away so soon :(.

Hope you all have had a lovely weekend!

The Oh-So-Talented Pam

2010-02-27T10:18:00.000-08:00

For a birthday / early anniversary present, my in-laws presented us with this beautiful quilt designed and hand-pieced by my mother-in-law. We absolutely love it! Not only is it a stunning piece of craftsmanship, but it also serves as a memento of mine and David's relationship. The different fabrics she selected represent places we have travelled and also things we like. See the little Big Bens and Beefeaters? These photos don't do it justice; therefore, you should all come over and see it in person.

Thank you so much, Pam! Aren't mothers great?

More of the same, for now

2010-02-25T14:16:00.000-08:00

Study, study, study, cook dinner, wash dishes, sleep, repeat. Welcome to my life. In the meantime, I am trying to teach myself photography with my mom's old camera. (I'm going to say she let me borrow it because I sill can't believe she would give me something so nice.)

I wish I had something more interesting to share with you, but for now a quick update will have to do. Hebrew is going well. I can form sentences and say a limited number of verbs in the past tense. I've given up meat for lent and this has left me quite fatigued. David says I need to find more creative sources of protein. Tonight: quinoa.

This weekend I turn 26. It feels like the perfect age. Simply put: I can't remember ever being so content.

Online Sample Sales

2010-02-19T12:47:00.000-08:00

To be honest, I actually hate shopping. I am very picky and I hate spending money on things I'm not sure I will love. But there is good news for people like me! I wanted to share with you all my newest obsession: online sample sales.

These websites offer really nice things at deep discounts--but they only stock a limited supply of each item, and in some cases, the items are only available for a limited amount of time.

So far my husband and I have only bought sporting goods from Bantler, which I highly recommend. David is basically addicted to their website.

I have also been perusing Rue La La and Swirl by Daily Candy. Rue La La is invitation only, but my readers can click on the link above to activate an account.

Please note, I am not in any way associated with these websites :).

Do you have any online shopping recommendations?? Please do share!

Snow sports on my mind...

2010-02-16T16:22:00.001-08:00

This weekend we met my family in Maryland for some downhill skiing (or snowboarding for the boys). We had so much fun and the conditions seriously couldn't have been better. And now that the Winter Olympics are in full swing, I have snow sports on my mind.

I wish people still dressed like this on the slopes. I'm going to have to scour secondhand shops looking for some retro bib snow pants for the next time I go skiing (which unfortunately may not be for a while since I am moving to the Mediterranean).

Picture uploaded by The Selvedge Yard from Conde Naste Archive Circa 1972. Check out his post for more vintage ski fashion!

Would you believe me if I told you...

2010-02-10T16:52:00.001-08:00

I haven't been to work since last Friday morning!?!

The snow here in DC is out of control and the roads really are that bad. The pictures below aren't from the set of the newest post-apocalyptic film, or even a ski slope as you might suspect. They were taken in MY NEIGHBORHOOD where people have abandoned cars, shopping carts, and all hope of ever returning to work (or at least until after President's Day).

Our expedition led us to the nearest grocery store, which was sold out of milk and eggs--but we managed to get the "essentials."

I hate to sound ungrateful for the snow-cation, punxsutawney phil, but I'm looking forward to things going back to normal around here.

Cooped Up!

2010-02-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

As promised, here are some pictures of the blizzard that dumped a ton of snow on the DC area this weekend. It isn't as pretty as the last storm, mostly because the snow is wet and heavy (difficult to shovel), knocking down trees and leaving some without power. Yuck! David and I are going to try to go out to eat tonight and call it Valentines Day because we are supposed to get more snow tomorrow - maybe six more inches.

Here's Dave up to his knees in snow preparing to shovel us out of the basement:

And our poor car buried in snow:

A Bright Salad for the Blizzard

2010-02-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

I don't have a good excuse for why I haven't updated the blog in a while. I think all of the blood in my brain has been convening in the section that memorizes vocabulary and grammar rules, leaving the other parts of my brain in a weakened state. In other words, I have been in a funk.

But what better way to wait out a funk than sitting indoors with a warm cup of coffee, an unlimited supply of Rosetta Stone, and all of your beautiful blog posts to catch up on? Today I only had a half day of class because this weekend the East Coast is expecting a BLIZZARD! Didn't you just have a blizzard? You might be thinking. Well, this one is going to be even bigger. After class was dismissed this morning, I came home and made a bright brunch in preparation for the long white weekend.

The fruit salad is a mixture of grapefruit, navel oranges, and blood oranges with mint, red onion, feta, mustard, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Check out Smitten Kitchen for the complete recipe and some far superior photos.

Stay tuned for some flabbergasting photos of our snowfall. Till then, stay warm!!

Running into English Majors

2010-01-25T18:33:00.000-08:00

There is something about loving books--REALLY loving them--that can create a deep emotional bond between people, even people who have just met. There is also a certian way of looking at the world, as if it can teach you something (instead of vice-versa); and being open to that experience can make all the difference. English majors don't just treasure beauty, they get their hands dirty fighting for it.

This weekend I had the wonderful experience of attending not one but three literary events. And I have a confession to make: English majors are my favorite people.* Being around them enriches my soul. Which is why it makes me so sad to read about the dissapearance of the humanities in articles such as this one from the New York Times called "Making College Relevant."

My English department was a thriving community where I recieved more than just an excellent education. If their funding were to be reduced, it would make me lose all faith in my alma mater. I don't know if there is anything I can do except support the arts as I get older and encourage young people to follow their dreams.

For now, I will pledge to read, not from a computer screeen or a kindle, but from a real, printed book. You can spread the word on your blog too by visiting Read the Printed Word and posting an icon on your website or blog (found via Chelsea of Frolic).

*(Also includes people who study foreign languages and people from foreign countries who study literature in their mother tongue; and even if you weren't an English major I will probably like you anyway).

PPS: I highly recommend the tumblr Book Lovers Never Go to Bed Alone.

When life breaks your Amaryllis...

2010-01-19T13:44:00.000-08:00

put the buds in a bowl full of water:

They bloom!!

Happy MLK weekend!

2010-01-15T12:14:00.000-08:00

"Men often hate each other because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don't know each other; they don't know each other because they can not communicate; they can not communicate because they are separated."

- Martin Luther King, Jr. (Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story)

I promise some lighter fare next week ;). Enjoy the holiday weekend! Laser cut art piece by Julene on Etsy. Visit her shop here.

tzedek

2010-01-13T14:12:00.000-08:00

This week in my area studies class, an inspirational speaker told us about the verse "tzedek tzedek tirdof" which means "justice, justice, pursue it." Some interpretations of the Torah suggest that the word justice is repeated twice to indicate that both the means and the end of any action must be just.

I hope I can carry this gem of advice with me as I begin my career with the federal government. I gather that it can be frustrating at times - but even little cogs can make a difference, right?

The more I read and learn about the world--the pain and suffering and senseless injustice--the more I want to do something about it. I want to educate myself by seeing and experiencing diverse cultures, and I want to pursue peace in any way I can. I hope I never take for granted how fortunate I am to have a job that allows me to live out this passion.

PS: Isn't social media amazing? The Red Cross has already raised $800,000 for Haiti disaster relief via their texting drive. In case you haven't seen this anywhere else, you can text "Haiti" to 90999 to donate $10. Read more about this and similar drives at the Huffington Post and on the State Department website.

Patience & Fortitude

2010-01-08T13:37:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness, friends. I survived my first week of Hebrew training... but just barely. So far, it is the most difficult language I have ever learned. My brain is spinning from the aleph bet (a.k.a. the new alphabet I have to memorize in print and cursive). Learning languages is fun, but it is also a lot of hard work. This is going to be a challenge (as in, I have never worked so hard in my life). And in the meantime the dishes will pile up. There's one resolution down the drain already.

Have a great weekend, folks! And wish me luck. Sigh. I think I need it :).

Picture from Supermarket HQ found via Swiss Miss.

My Five Favorite Green Products

2010-01-05T18:30:00.000-08:00

Is one of your resolutions to do more for the environment this year? If so, you should consider trying some all-natural products. Living green isn't just about the long term benefits. Exposing your skin to toxins is dangerous for you and for generations to come. I have very sensitive skin, but after switching my toiletries and detergents to green/natural brands, I have noticed a difference in the way my skin feels. I feel better about my impact on the environment--plus, none of these products were tested on animals.

1. Seventh Generation Natural 2x concentrated laundry liquid. I have used both the unscented and the lavender. In addition, you can use tennis balls to fluff your clothing in the dryer instead of using dryer sheets.

2. Dr. Bronner's pure castile soap or Tom's of Maine soap.

3. Desert Essence Organic Jojoba Oil. I just starting using jojoba oil, and it is amazing. I use this on everything from my scalp to my toes! You can use it as leave-in conditioner and mixed in with any face or body cream. It is fast absorbing and super-hydrating.

4. Jason everyday natural hair care. I use the tea tree scalp normalizing shampoo, but they offer a wide variety of shampoos and conditioners.

5. Good old-fashioned baking soda and vinegar. To unclog a drain, use a combination of baking soda and vinegar and let it sit for five minutes before pouring boiling water down the drain. Use a small plate of baking soda to get rid of odors in your fridge or elsewhere. Mix vinegar with water to quickly kill most bacteria and germs. Check out this website for more details.

Farewell 2009 and Hello Hebrew

2010-01-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

2009 was a significant year for me. I earned my Master's degree, got the job I wanted--astonishingly--and made lots of new friends at the Foreign Service Institute. In addition, starting this blog has helped me tap into the creative part of my brain. I know at times what I write can seem vapid--or even superficial--but I keep this blog in order to celebrate beauty and optimism. I love my life here in DC, and I will try to do a better job of logging my activities without boring you with the details.

One of my New Year's Resolutions is to be more intentional about how I spend my evenings... i.e. less TV and more reading and creating. In 2010 I hope to do more yoga, drink more tea, live greener, take dance classes, have more dinner parties, join a toastmasters club, and finally stop biting my nails. We'll see.

Tomorrow I start Hebrew language classes in preparation for my move to Israel this summer. I am very nervous but also excited! After a wonderful break visiting with my family and old friends, I am ready to go back to training with a gusto.

What are you looking forward to in 2010?

I'm dreaming of salty caramel

2009-12-24T10:22:00.000-08:00

For the past few years I have made salty caramel for my Grandma. It is a fun, edible holiday craft, but beware: this stuff is ADDICTIVE. The best recipe I've found is from the December 2008 issue of ReadyMade Magazine, although I'm sure Smitten Kitchen's version is also sublime.

Soft Caramels a la ReadyMade

Makes about 100 1" squares

INGREDIENTS

2 cups sugar

1 cup light corn syrup

2 tbsps unsalted butter

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1 1/2 tsps ground sea salt

2 tsps vanilla extract

Candy thermometer

parchment paper

Step 1: Prepare an 11" x 7" pan with at least 1" sides with a sheet of parchment and set aside.

Step 2: Microwave or heat cream until warm and set aside - you do not want to use cold cream in step 4!

Step 3: In a heavy-bottomed sauce pan, combine sugar and corn syrup; mix until there are no dry spots and use a pastry brush to push down any sugar crystals from the sides of the pan.

Step 4: WEARING AN OVEN MITT, cook the mixture over high heat until it starts to turn golden. Immediately whisk in butter, one tablespoon at a time. CAREFULLY whisk in cream, a few tablespoons at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. The mixture will steam when you add the cream and the steam will burn you if it comes into contact with your skin! I know this from experience.

Step 5: Clip the candy thermometer to the side of the pan and cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture reaches precisely 248 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 6: Remove from heat and whisk in salt and vanilla.

Step 7: Pour caramel into prepared pan and let sit for several hours or overnight.

Step 8: Turn the sheet of caramel onto a cutting board and refrigerate for 15 minutes

Step 9: With a knife or rotary cutter, cut the caramel into 1" square pieces and individually wrap them in parchment paper.

PS: My husband gave me my Christmas present early... this adorable pillow from K studio! We named him William.

Snowmageddon + A Winner!

2009-12-21T07:45:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to The Owl's Closet, the winner of the Sakura Review drawing!

How was your weekend, friends? In Northern Virginia we received close to 20 inches of snow!! Needless to say we stayed in most of the weekend sipping hot beverages, wrapping presents, and making caramel for my grandma. I took a roll of film on my mom's old SLR camera she let me borrow. I can't wait to develop it and see how the pictures turn out.

The roads are still not clear... so I get a snow day today!!

That Day

2009-12-17T20:46:00.000-08:00

"That day I carried the dream around like a full glass of water, moving gracefully so I would not lose any of it."
— Miranda July No One Belongs Here More Than You

I find Miranda July quite inspiring...

You should look her up if you aren't familiar. She is a filmmaker, writer, artist, no-brow philosopher.

A Very Etsy Christmas

2009-12-14T14:56:00.000-08:00

My philosophy this Christmas has been to try to support independent stores and artists as much as possible while still buying gifts that I think my relatives will use and enjoy. In the meantime I'm trying to stay within a reasonable price range... but this is the first Christmas that I haven't been on a student's budget!

I recently purchased an item from etsy seller La Brocanterie, and I was quite taken by her philosophy and collection of vintage objects. When I received the package in the mail it included a few extra surprises and such personal flair that I had to double check the package to make sure it didn't actually come from a friend. In any case, I would highly recommend stopping by her store for some last minute Christmas gifts if any of you are looking for something vintage -- for instance, this neat Kodak rangefinder camera available here.

PS: Don't forget about the giveaway!

Giveaway!

2009-12-12T10:51:00.000-08:00

I am excited to announce that Lime of Sight will be offering its first ever giveaway!!!

One lucky reader will receive a copy of Sakura Review, a DC-based literary journal featuring short fiction and poetry from writers across America and the delightful artwork and design of Joel and Ashley of This Paper Ship. Each copy also comes with a bookmark designed by This Paper Ship. Last night the editors revealed the inaugural issue with a launch party (which I epically failed at documenting).

Please comment below for your chance to win a copy. If you are not a regular blogger, you may comment by selecting "Anonymous" on the drop down bar, but be sure to sign your first name and last initial along with your e-mail. Let me know if you post about this giveaway on your blog or on Facebook and you will receive an extra entry in the drawing.

A winner will be randomly chosen on Monday, December 21st and notified by e-mail. Copies available for purchase via the Sakura Review website. Creative submissions for the second issue are currently being accepted.

Grown Up Christmas List

2009-12-09T19:10:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

This Christmas I ask for peace,

I ask that neighborly love and mutual understanding may increase

And that violent extremism may decrease

I hope for breakthroughs in science

To eradicate the worst sicknesses in our society,

And to solve our energy problems without destroying our planet

I pray that we may be humble and do our part

That we may be brave when the opportunity comes

And that patience may persevere.

Fine Art Print by Jane Heller available for purchase here on etsy.

In the holiday spirit

2009-12-06T19:40:00.001-08:00

This weekend my husband and I embarked on our alternative Christmas tree adventure. The thought of having a fake tree bothers me, and the thought of cutting a tree down bothers my husband. Our compromise last year almost ended in the death of a beloved house plant (you may remember my post about it). So this year we settled on recreating the pine cone tree from country living. Their directions are rather vague, so if you decide to try this at home, here are some more details:

Supplies for a 2.5 foot tree

cone shaped foam base

wire

wire cutters (+ pliers and gloves optional)

wooden floral pics

sheet moss

appx 70 cones of varying sizes**

pot or decorative stand

**We purchased our pine cones from Michaels, but a friend told me that you can also find them at Wild Oats. You could also use a florist. If you gather the cones yourself, be sure to bake them in the oven before using them. And please be careful: I would hate for you to poke an eye out with a piece of wire flying throught the air. Just be warned.

Directions

Start out with the largest pine cones and wrap a five inch wire tightly around the lower spokes (being careful not to break or damage them) leaving a few inches of wire with which to anchor the cone into the foam base. (I would suggest wearing gloves because my husband has all sorts of little cuts on his hand from this step). Insert the cones into the foam at an angle and repeat this process working around and up the foam base using progressively smaller and smaller pine cones. For the smaller cones, I was able to use wooden floral pics, but you could conceivably use wire the whole time. Last but not least, stick sheet moss in between any gaps in the cones so that the white foam base does not show through. Decorate as desired.

Now we have a great-smelling, festive tree to get us in the holiday spirit. I bought some twinkle lights as per The Owl's Closet's suggestion, but we bought the wrong size batteries so I don't have a picture of it yet.

What kind of decorations are you using this year? Any recommendations for holiday crafts?

To do this weekend

2009-12-02T16:59:00.001-08:00

I am definitely going to have to go for a walk in the woods this weekend to gather pine cones for a holiday craft. I am trying to decide between this pine cone "alternative christmas tree" from lindsey of Always Spinning and this garland from Twig and Thistle. Check Twig and Thistle's post for a step by step guide on how to make the garland. I may have to borrow my MILs hot glue gun for the tree!

My husband said no glitter this year... but I am getting the urge! Maybe some crazy tinsel, too!

Happy belated Thanksgiving!

2009-11-30T19:08:00.000-08:00

Happy belated Thanksgiving, blog world! I have been MIA recently eating dizzying amounts of food at my parents' house in Ohio. It is so refreshing to spend some time with my family. I feel energized and ready to take on the world. Pictured below is only my immediate family (sans one brother). For the actual feast we had an enormous crowd... Aunts, Grandma, In-laws, hungry med students... Unfortunately the picture came out blurry.

Oh, and I got a new haircut. I went into my hairdresser with a few ideas and she said, "Why don't you try the Michelle Williams haircut?" She looked around for a picture but couldn't find one... and I agreed to the haircut anyway. I love it!

PS: You simply must try roasted butternut squash and pear soup! It is to die for.

November is a good month for birthdays

2009-11-24T14:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my husband and my amazing little brother. You guys rock! I don't know what I would do without you!

Last year we celebrated with a joint party, but this year my brother won't be able to attend because he is studying abroad. I'm so proud of you, Austie, and jealous that you will be in one of my favorite cities!

Dave, every year with you is more fun than the year before. I love you!

Compassion

2009-11-19T18:22:00.000-08:00

During training this week I was in a terrible mood because the material (immigration law) was overwhelming and it wasn't sinking in, and then I realized that I hadn't smiled ALL DAY!!

Being nice isn't just right, it is essential.

I recently came across an inspirational blog called Operatio n Nice, whose author, Melissa, writes about how kindness can change the world. She frequently gives her readers "nice" assignments. This week's assignment: compliment a stranger. I think it's a wonderful idea and I've tried to dish out as many compliments as possible this week.

She also drew my attention to the Charter for Compassion. It is the golden rule fleshed out as an emphatic call to action to treat "everyone without exception with absolute justice, equity, and respect." Please, if you have time, watch the video and/or visit the website here.

Have a wonderful Friday, everyone. Go out of your way to be nice to someone. It might just make your day.

The days will be good

2009-11-16T12:24:00.000-08:00

I went hiking in Shenandoah National Park this weekend with a few friends. We drove through a thick fog to get to the campsite, and we were nervous that the dark clouds would erupt into rain any minute. I got separated from my friends as we were gathering twigs for the campfire. The fog was just starting to clear when I stumbled upon a fawn and her mother. Everything was quiet and peaceful, and I felt like I had stepped into something quite magical.

"With the smell of the woods and the wind in the trees [...] they will forget the rush and the strain of all other long weeks of the year, and for a short time at least, the days will be good for their bodies and good for their souls." - Franklin D. Roosevelt

Houndstooth

2009-11-12T15:05:00.001-08:00

I have a real soft spot for houndstooth. And seriously, how amazing is this dress!?! I gasped a little when I saw it.

Why are you doing this to me, Shabby Apple? Don't you know I am trying to live on a budget?

PS: Can you throw in her corner office and manual type writer? Thanks.

Found on Shabby Apple.

Good Intentions

2009-11-11T05:46:00.000-08:00

Last year my husband and I bought this rather pathetic looking evergreen shrub from the grocery store to serve as our Christmas tree. I always had a real tree growing up, and I liked the idea of using a living tree. So we loaded the poor thing with all of our ornaments and loved it and watered it as much as a plant could desire. But, since we live in a basement, it didn't do so well. A couple months later, it started turning brown and the little needles started to fall off. I'm sorry to say I actually put our dear Christmas shrub on the back porch and left it for dead.

A few weeks ago, I was in the backyard bringing some compost to our compost pile when I had one of those HOW LONG HAS THAT BEEN THERE?? moments. Yes, that is our Christmas shrub, thriving(ish). Our landlord must have taken pity on it and planted it. I'd like to think of it as a pre-Thanksgiving Christmas miracle.

PS: Have a happy Veterans Day to all those who are serving or have loved ones serving in the armed forces. I get the day off but my husband doesn't. I will be spending it doing some much needed cleaning and reading. Gros Bisous.

Do you date... other couples?

2009-11-08T16:47:00.000-08:00

Dave and I are fortunate to have a great network of friends (both couples and singles; we actually LOVE so-called "third wheels"), so I am starting to get anxious about moving to a country where we don't know anyone yet! Fortunately, we have a double date next weekend with a couple who will be joining us in Israel. The whole idea of couples dating is hilarious to me.

I have to admit, up until this point we have made most of our friends without conscious effort. But after reading this article from the WSJ, I began to see the merits of "dating" other couples.

Not only that, but a dynamic circle of friends is one of the most important yet least emphasized aspects of a healthy relationship. Whether you meet them through your work, school, neighborhood, hobby group, or religious organization, friends can have a tremendous impact on your psychological well-being and even your physical health. The New York Times has featured several articles on the health benefit of friends, including What Are Friends For? A Longer Life, Are Your Friends Making You Fat? and Strangers May Cheer You Up.

What about you? If you're in a long term relationship, do you ever date other couples? Singles, do you mind being the third/fifth wheel? Or do couples drive you crazy?

Photo by the talented Chelsea Roberson from her blog, just me. This crazy cat went camping for a weekend with a huge group of people that she barely knew--that's one way to make friends quickly!

Link Love

2009-11-04T16:33:00.000-08:00

Ellen from Two is a Pair recently listed me as one of her favorite newly discovered blogs. Ellen is a professional dancer and artist chronicling her life in Vancouver with her fiance, Cort. Thanks for the shout out, Ellen!

I am going to interpret the prompt somewhat differently and point readers' attention toward some of my favorite blogs. I follow so many delightful blogs that it is like a tsunami of awesomeness when I open my google reader. BUT, if I am crunched for time, these are the ones I simply cannot miss:

For an eccentric collection of beautiful, funny, and inspiring images and stories I read Cup of Jo, Swiss Miss, Design Milk, Design for Mankind, and of course the always-witty Melanie of You are My Fave.

For style advice, I always turn to Tiffany of I am Style-ish and ogle the street photography of Garance Dore and Scott Schuman, the Sartorialist.

For recipes, I read Tastespotting and Smitten Kitchen, and I turn to Tyler Cowen's Ethnic Dining Guide for restaurant recommendations in the DC metro area.

For Foreign Service news, I follow Digger of Life after Jerusalem--and if you're interested in reading more, she has an exhaustive list of all the Foreign Service blogs on the web.

For new media and writing advice, I adore Laryssa of Comma 'n Sentence.

And if you aren't reading Joel and Ashley's blogs This Paper Ship and Spring to Spring, what are you waiting for!? This freakin' awesome artistic couple lives in a real life farm house in North Carolina complete with cats and chickens.

Finally, Erin of The Fierce Beagle writes about life and motherhood in a sometimes hilarious, sometimes touching voice that will have you hooked after one visit.

I hope you found this post helpful! The blogosphere can be so overwhelming. How do you organize your daily reads? Do you use google reader or have you found a better method of organizing the madness?

The Foreign Service Institute

2009-11-03T12:42:00.000-08:00

There are many things I love about my job. Right now, I am thankful for the chance to spend a whole year at the National Foreign Affairs Training Center in Arlington, Virginia studying foreign languages and professional tradecraft. More commonly known as the Foreign Service Institute, or FSI, this is where the Department of State trains diplomats for overseas assignments.

The atmosphere is congenial, and I have met many interesting, smart, and overwhelmingly nice people. In some ways, I am glad to be done with (grad) school because now I have time to explore my own interests and relax. But on the other hand, I love learning, so FSI is the best of both worlds.

I did a post this summer about what I would wear to wear to my first day of work. After the initial introduction course (called A-100) is over, the dress code relaxes quite a bit (read business casual). Below is an example of what I like to wear to work:

FSI by roysie featuring Repetto shoes

(Of course, I own the cheaper version of all these items. My military blazer is from Express, and I would highly recommend it. It feels like a sweatshirt!)

What about you? Do you prefer to dress up for work or do you like the flexibility of business casual? I imagine working from home would be glorious because you can wear whatever you feel like!

Top picture from HWA Structural Engineering.

Shock me like an electric eel!

2009-11-01T12:11:00.000-08:00

This year for halloween I decided to dress as an electric eel, inspired in part by Meg's Award-Winning Blog. I seriously laughed out loud while reading her post on costume ideas. Of course, I already new that eels were sassy and fun because of the MGMT song "ooh girl, shock me like an electric eel..." which I have been singing all week non-stop.

Unfortunately, I looked more like a jewel thief than an eel, which is why I recruited my husband to dress as a coral reef. He wore swim trunks and a blue shirt with natural sponges and sea creature illustrations pinned to it. (Please, whatever you do, do not look up electric eel on wikipedia to see whether they actually live in coral reefs).

Nemo the clown fish was a fan favorite. We got a lot of laughs, and I hope they were laughing with us and not at us ;).

Happy Halloween! What did you dress as this year?

Sick Day Tea

2009-10-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

It seems like everyone I know is getting sick this week. Today I woke up with a terrible sore throat and an achy feeling all over. If this is what my husband had over the weekend, I can kiss my Russian exam goodbye. Let's hope it is just a cold.

Lately I have been drinking a cup of tea every afternoon (sorry, coffee) and have become quite the advocate. Tea is the second most frequently consumed beverage after water and has many health benefits. That is why when I'm sick, my go to recipe is Rachel Ray's Sick Day Tea. Not only is it delicious, but it also feels great on a sore throat and is full of Vitamin C and herbs.

Try it for yourself! I have modified the recipe slightly. Find the original here.

1 inch piece of ginger root, peeled (use a spoon)

several large strips of orange rind

6 cups of water

1/4 cup honey

juice of 1 orange

4 bags echinacea (or other) tea

Mix the ginger root, orange rind, water, and honey in a pot and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. When it comes to a boil, mix in orange juice and tea bags. Cover and let steep (for approximately 8 minutes depending on what type of tea you use). Ladle into mug and enjoy! Makes enough to share with your sick roomie or sweetheart!

Picture from TLC "How Tea Works"

Let the color schemes arrive!

2009-10-26T18:56:00.000-07:00

Fall is finally here and I am falling in love with it all over again. I can't wait to carve pumpkins with my hubby and christen his electric pumpkin carver (a Christmas present from my mom). Unfortunately he has been sick lately so we had to cancel our plans of bike ride in the countryside with friends and a costume party. FYI, after a restful weekend he is feeling much better.

I found these beautiful carved pumpkins on Sarah Klassen's design blog.

I'm also going to make these pumpkin cupcakes (spotted on Cup of Jo) for my Russian class on Friday. It will be my last day. I'm going to miss those knuckleheads. (I'm pretty sure they don't read this blog).

Halloween Cat by Hot Boxer via Rocket Out. Pumpkins by James Baigrie via Sarah Klassen Haute Design. Cupcake picture and recipe by Patent and the Pantry via Cup of Jo.

The way nature intended

2009-10-21T12:44:00.000-07:00

How cool would it be to step out of a hot shower onto... a bed of moss!? This shower mat is made of a special type of foam that supports moss growth. I love indoor plants and try to keep as many as my little basement apartment will support. Plants can help purify your air, and I find them quite relaxing.

What do you think: Weird or amazing? And where can I get one?

Design by La Chanh Nguyen. Check out her other creative work!

Update: I found out more information on Apartment Therapy. The mat is not being mass produced yet and took 220 pounds for the artist to make. Boo! Someone give her financial backing quick!

Oh, you dishes...

2009-10-19T19:15:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how many dirty dishes two people can create--especially when they both love to cook. I've had such a bad attitude about doing the dishes lately that this portable dishwasher is starting to look like a viable option! Or maybe I should just get my lazy bones scrubbing...

Any tips on how to find zen in tedious chores?

Reusable Lunch Bags

2009-10-14T18:25:00.000-07:00

As part of my attempt to live a more sustainable life, I am strongly considering these reusable cloth lunch bags. We all know that bringing a packed lunch to work is a great way to save money and eat healthy, but I feel terrible throwing away plastic bags or tin foil. The 3 green moms' website says "we think going green is not just about new technological or scientific innovations - it can be as easy as changing wasteful habits by using better products."

As seen on Swiss Miss.

How to wear high heels like a hockey player:

2009-10-12T08:21:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Blog Goggles' request for advice on how to wear high heels, I decided to share some insight I learned this summer while trying to break in the new high heels I bought for A-100. These Cole Haan pumps look innocent enough, but... ouch! Until you break them in they are like little torture devices.

While I was soaking my feet in epsom salt and bemoaning the fact that I would have to wear dress shoes again in the morning, my husband taught me a trick that he uses to break in new ice hockey skates. First, head over to the drug store and buy epsom salt and moleskin. Trust me, you will not regret it. If you don't have blisters yet, adhere the moleskin right to your foot where the shoe rubs to prevent blisters. If you already have blisters, follow these step by step instructions to create a pain-free blister cushion.

1. Cut a rectangle of moleskin, fold in half, and cut a tiny circle the size of your blister out of the center. Save the circle. Meanwhile, adhere the moleskin to your foot making sure none of it covers your blister. If you need to make the hole bigger, do so.

2. Flip the tiny circle around so that the fuzzy part is towards your skin and the sticky part is facing out. Place this carefully on the blister.

3. Cover with another piece of moleskin (same size or larger than your original piece) to provide extra cushion and to keep the tiny circle in place.

Voila! By the way, this advice is intended for mild blisters and should not replace medical attention. If you have serious blisters on your feet, please take care of them to avoid scarring.

Do you have any tips for wearing high heels?

Top image 1917 women's ice hockey team, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario. Found on hockey circle.net. Middle Image Cole Haan.

No, this is not my dog.

2009-10-09T13:09:00.000-07:00

This is not my dog, but I want one so bad!

I got to play with my friends' puppy pug on a recent camping trip to Shenandoah National Park. Unfortunately, I think it would be cruel to get an animal right now because my husband and I would have to leave it alone in the apartment during the day. A cat would be awesome, but my husband is allergic. Moreover, if we got a pet, we would have to find a way to bring it to Israel with us--which might involve a lengthy quarantine process. This is a real bummer because I love animals: cats, dogs, birds... you name it!

My dream dog is a Vizsla, a Hungarian hunting dog that is both beautiful and hypoallergenic. I will have to wait a few years before I can get one. Do you have a dog? What is your favorite breed? Mutts also rock, in my opinion. My parents have two!