creativity & carving

In the spirit of Halloween, my friends decided to host a pumpkin carving party. It was a splendid way , as adults, for us to reminisce and enjoy this childhood pleasure. It didn't hurt that we had some delicious wine along with a couple different antipasto platters (the brown sugar brie puff was to die for). What we did learn was: there are now stencil books with patterns galore (the triangle eyes and jagged mouth are not quite fancy enough anymore), the store bought tools are brightly colored and in varying shapes (i recall using a steak knife in years past), and they even have eyeballs on a stick for added embellishments. It appears that the retail industry has really got a hold on this aspect of Halloween. Nonetheless, the pumpkins turned out amazing (I sadly had to depart to finish a grown up project, work), and spending time with friends is always a wonderful time. I recommend to all to host a carving party. Unleash your inner creativity and along the way, laugh with your friends. Happy Halloween!

wool in winter wonderland

Winter is nearing. For most of the country the weather is getting crisp, we're pulling out recipes for warm soups and stews and storefronts showcase thick jackets and tall boots. Even in SoCal the recent cloudy skies and drizzle has me thinking about apple cinnamon candles and my Ugg boots (too bad I don't own wellies). Along with the change in seasons comes change in fabrics, wool being a main staple. But this season I have noticed that wool is the popular textile beyond apparel, showing up all over design magazines and mainstream home stores. And, coupled with the rebirth in popularity of knitting and stitching over the past couple years, it's no shock that Patricia Urqulio's mangas (sleeve) rug collection has become a hit. The Spanish designer's patchwork wool stitch rugs are vibrant in texture with varying patterns of neutral and bright colors in an assortment of sizes. Urqulio's rugs go beyond the traditional shapes of rugs, taking on the shape of balloons and bells. The mangas collection also includes puf's, which can dub as an ottomans, footrest or side table. Many of Urqulio's products can be purchased from Architonic, but if you're in the mood to be crafty, why not try to make something similar yourself!

Howl-O-Ween Party

With Halloween next weekend, this week begins the parties and potlucks celebrating this theatrical holiday. As you create or shop for the perfect costume for yourself or your kids, don't forget to dress up Fido too! At the Solana Beach pet boutique, Muttropolis, join other pet owners on Wednesday, October 28, for a night of frightful fun. From 6-8pm bring in your dressed up pup to enjoy a howl-o-ween party where awards will be given to the best costumes and professional photographers will be taking pet portraits. There will be treats on hand for every pup, as well as refreshments for their parents. At 6:00, kickoff the night with bobbing for biscuits and then at 7:00, the costume contest begins. Prizes will be presented (Grand prize $50 gift card, Second prize $20 gift card, and Third prize $10 gift card) and the mutt mingling will continue until 8:00. I went to this event last year (Sasha was a shark) and it was a hoot. The grand prize went to the Michael Jackson dog who's owner handmade the costume.

While you are in the brightly colored shop, be sure to peruse their selection of pet supplies, including bedding, food, treats, toys, apparel, collars and leashes. I have the matching set (harness and lead) of the Bella Bean nylon cupcake pattern. It's adorable, washable and has lasted for years! With just about everything and anything for pups, big and small, it's a fantastic place to shop. In addition to serving 'haute dogs,' they also have a section for 'cool cats.' Muttropolis has stores in Solana Beach, La Jolla and Newport Beach. They have a great online selection and offer gift cards (the holidays are fast arriving)!

Tierra Miguel Farm

Last weekend I spent an enjoyable morning spent at Tierra Miguel Farm in the Pauma Valley (north east of San Diego) with two of my girlfriends at a Kashi event. The founders of Tierra Miguel Farm met at a composting workshop in the '90s and today the Farm thrives as a Nonprofit Public Benifit Corporation. Not only was it envigorating to be in the fresh air, in the 85 acres of wide open farmland , but we also left with an education too. We learned about the benefits of biodynamic farming, organic agriculture and composting. We also got to plant our own seedlings to take home and grow (I chose bok choy, arugula, leeks, beets and brocolini). But perhaps my favorite part was the palette satisfying tour of the property, in which we got to pick, dig and pluck our way through rows of produce. We tasted heirloom tomatoes, jujube, okra, strawberries, carrots, beets and purslane. Tierra Miguel Farm has a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program that currently has nearly 500 members. They also distribute their produce to local restaurants, including Claire on Cedros (Solana Beach), Smoking Goat (South Park), Sea Rocket Bistro (North Park) and Cafe Chloe (East Village). My ears perked up at each of these establishments, seeing that they rank in some of my favorite restaurants in San Diego. One can also purchase Tierra Miguel Farm produce at area Whole Foods and Jimbos. It was such a wonderful experience, and I hope they continue to grow and I hope we, as San Diegans, start to consume more locally!

Kook + Community

In 2007 Matthew Antichevich, a Hemet based sculptor, created "Magic Carpet Ride." The now infamous surfer statue, located on Highway 101 and Chesterfield in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA, has become known as the Cardiff Kook. The bronze piece, standing more than 12 feet high, was commissioned by the Cardiff Botanical Society. It's perched on a piece of pricey coastline real estate, residing over one of Cardiff's busiest intersections. Once unveiled, the Kook was met with much opposition and criticism by both surfers and non-surfers. Many said that it was not a true representation of a surfer's stance, particularly it's limp wrists and outstretched arms, and comes across as goofy. What was intended to be a celebration of some of the area's best surf breaks soon became the focus of pranks. But over time, the masks, costumes, and signs have in a sense brought the community together. While it's not encouraged or condoned by the city, many of the pranks are far from offensive, leading even Encinitas Mayor, Dan Dalager, to recently state that he personally loved the paper mache shark that gained National attention when it swallowed the Kook. With bikers, joggers, surfers, walkers and beach goers, passing the statue daily, it's a refreshing surprise to wake up to see a new creation. Once adorned, gaggles of gawkers stand around photographing, talking and appreciating the latest creation. Included here are some of the latest pranks: the great white attack, wedding celebration and fight against breast cancer. I personally enjoy it and can't wait to see what comes next. With each passing week, the bar keeps rising.

* images Megan.Christine

Grilled Salmon Soba Noodle Salad

I was craving a light healthy meal, and I came across a salmon recipe in Shape (October 2010) magazine. It was easy to make with minimal prep time (about 20 min), and the soba noodle salad can me made hours ahead of time. The result was a colorful dish, full of nutrients and flavor!

The recipe comes from Lake Austin Spa Resort, which ironically, Austin is where I am traveling next weekend. The nutty soba noodles are made from buckwheat (a whole grain) and are loaded with nutrients. In combination with the fresh veggies and omega-3 packed salmon, this dish is a healthy option!

Grilled Salmon with Soba Noodle Salad

Ingredients

• 12 oz buckwheat soba noodles
• 1 cup edamame, shelled
• 2 clv garlic
• 1 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
• ¹/₃ cup hoisin sauce
• ¹/₃ cup rice wine (or dry white Vermouth)
• 2 T canned tomato sauce
• 1 T plus 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 2 t toasted sesame oil
• 1 t Asian chile sauce
• 1 cup grated carrot
• 1 cup thinly sliced water chestnuts
• 3 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced
• ¹/₄ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 T toasted sesame seeds
• 1 ¹/₄ lb center-cut salmon fillet, sliced into 6 even squares

Directions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add soba noodles and edamame. Cook for about 7 minutes or until soba is tender. (Soba noodles are very starchy, so stir frequently as they cook.) Drain soba noodles and edamame and rinse in colander under cold water until soba noodles are no longer sticky.

For the edamame salad dressing, place garlic and ginger in the work bowl of a food processor; process until minced. Add hoisin, rice wine, tomato sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chile sauce. Process until blended.

Transfer soba noodles and edamame to a large bowl. Add carrot, water chestnuts, scallions, cilantro, and sesame seeds. Pour on dressing and toss gently. Chill in refrigerator for about 3 hours or until cold.

Just before serving, preheat grill or broiler to medium. Place salmon, skin-side down, on a grill or foil-lined baking sheet. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until translucent. Transfer to a large plate to cool. Slip skin off salmon.

To serve, spoon a portion of the soba noodles and edamame salad onto each of 6 plates and arrange a square of grilled salmon on top.

* photos Megan.Christine

Shadows, Scripps Forum

It's not often that one travels to San Diego in search of great architectural wonders. With pristine beaches, world class theme parks and outdoor spaces, any talk about structures is mostly absent from conversations. Last month my parents were in town visiting, and with the top tourists attractions completed in years past, I decided that I would take them on a quick afternoon trip into La Jolla and show them two of my favorite buildings, Safdie Rabines Architects' Robert Paine Scripps Forum and Louis Kahn's Salk Institute. Ironically, both structures are part of a larger scientific research community and both are perched on the beautiful La Jolla coastline.

Completed in 2009, the Scripps Forum (as it is commonly referred to), is part of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The conference center is split into separate buildings connected by slated wood trellis creating playful shadows, shifting as the sun rises and sets. There is a main auditorium and four meeting rooms, as well as a lounge. Situated along the beachfront, the structure is subjected to the elements: wind, sun and sea-spray. Constructed with simple materials, the design never intended to impact the natural beauty of the La Jolla shoreline.

Robert Pain Scripps Forum: 8610 Kennel Way

Images: Megan.Chrisine

Etsy Inspiration_Ashley G and Drew

As we try to check off the home improvements projects on our list, which we have 1 completed (the front yard) in 3 months, I find myself staring into the crowded garage full of boxes and junk. Initially we had hoped for the garage to be organized with storage, a surf/activity corner and my art studio. Well, little has shifted since it came off the moving truck, and the bicycle tires are now flat. I did however come to the conclusion that 1. I am in dire need to create (it's been so long since I last painted) 2. I have boxes of overstock photography, stacks of canvases and portfolios full of prints. So, after Chris brought an article in INC magazine to my attention, about a Portland based duo, Ashley G and Drew, it nudged me to create that long overdue Etsy website for Megan.Christine. Just as we have a home list, I too have my personal list, which has long included Etsy, updating my website, and pulling together an updated portfolio.... if only I could freeze time....

Images are some of my favorite Ashley G and Drew illustrations.

fish feast

Lately, magazine after magazine includes articles about power health foods. One of the champs were white anchovies, which are packed with omega-3 acids, a powerful anti-inflammatory and considered to be a "good fat." Fish are the primary source for omega-3, found in fatty fish that swim in cold water, and also include: salmon, sardines, smelt and shad. For anchovies, it's far more common to find them preserved, since fresh anchovies go bad so quickly. White anchovies are cured in salt and vinegar, and are much fresher and tastier than the brick-colored anchovies we often find smashed in jars. At Seaside Market, in Cardiff by the Sea, they carry Italian imported white anchovies that are delicious. For Chris' birthday, his friend Ryan (who first told us about the Seaside Market find), bought him a package, and who would have thought that a gift of fish would be such a hit.

So, for Chris' birthday dinner, we started off with a variety of olives, and then I made a delicious caesar salad topped with white anchovies, parmesan and croutons. Our main course was linguine allo scoglio, which is Chris' favorite seafood pasta dish from local San Diego restaurant, Buon Appetito. I mixed fresh shrimp, clams and mussels in a zingy tomato sauce and topped with parmesan cheese. Delicious!

Sauce:

1/4 cup olive oil

5 garlic cloves, minced

1 bay leaf

1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

1 cup dry white wine

1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes

2.5 lbs clams

1.5 mussels

1 lb shrimp, peeled

1/2 cup torn basil

1/4 cup chopped italian parsley

* Heat oil in a wide pot over medium heat. add garlic cloves, bay leaf and red pepper ~1min.

* Add wine, bring to a boil, add tomatoes (with juices) and simmer ~8min

* Stir in clams ~5min

* Stir in mussels ~5min

* Once shellfish is open, remove to another bowl.

* Add shrimp until cooked ~2min

* Stir in basil, parsley and shellfish.

* Serve and enjoy with fresh warm bread!

San Diego Organic Farming

This coming Saturday morning (9 October) join Kashi for an organic farm tour at Tierra Miguel Organic Farm. Located about 45 minutes inland from Oceanside, the Tierra Miguel Foundation (TMF) began in 2000 as a socially responsible community that works together, building agricultural renewal. The TMF is part of the California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), and anyone can join their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) to receive fresh picked produce. The first Saturday of each month the TMF holds an open house, where people can learn about sustainable agriculture, tour the farm and enjoy a pot-luck lunch.

This weekend, the Wellness Team at Kashi is partnering with the TMF to teach the benefits of locally grown farming as well as organic farming. Kashi, a La Jolla based company, is well known for it's healthy, grain and seed based natural foods. Kashi's products are easily found in area grocery stores, and are worth trying if you haven't already (Go Lean Crunch cereal is a favorite of mine). It's not uncommon to spot a Kashi booth or tent at the many local San Diego events, promoting good healthy eating.

So, put on your boots, pick some pumpkins and tomatoes at Tierra Miguel Farm and enjoy a Saturday morning with your friends & Kashi! See you there!

Juicing Continues

My experimentation continues with our Juicer. Tonight I made a delicious glass of apple + italian parsley + cucumber. I topped it off with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Refreshing and sweet with a dash of Fall.

Feel free to share your own concoctions!

Cardiff Seaside Camping

It's well known that California has beautiful state parks, which can also include excellent camping. For the highly desirable camp grounds, reservations book up well in advance of trips. Cardiff's State Beach opens reservations six months in advance. And it's no joke, spots get swooped up so fast! I was lucky enough a couple months ago to secure one spot (only three were open at the time) for a Sunday night (the other nights were booked) for October 3. It actually worked out great, as a birthday celebration of surfing, grilling and enjoying the outdoors. The campsites were a good size (holds up to 8 people and 3 cars), the facilities well kept, and most had a canopy of foliage to protect from the elements. While Bull Taco is a perk, and a local favorite, the best part of Cardiff State Beach is how close it is to the ocean. Once your tucked away in your sleeping back, you can doze off and enjoy the calming sounds of waves crashing. It was a perfect evening, and we didn't even stop to think that we were only less than 1/2 mile from our comfy king size bed.

To find a CA state park: http://www.parks.ca.gov

Looking for Art: Green/Flash

Typically, when visiting San Diego in search of art and galleries, one is easily directed to the La Jolla Cove, Solana Beach Cedros Design District, and Little Italy's Kettner Blvd. While those neighborhoods are full of galleries, talent and events, it's worth taking the time to check out the less mainstream areas. The art scene in San Diego extends much farther, and I frequently find myself in North Park and East Village. But for those looking for creativity in north county, with just a little effort, creative pockets are quickly discovered.

One space I've visited recently is Green/Flash. The small gallery and art shop, located in a corner unit on Chesterfield primarily showcases surf related works by local artists. They have an upcoming opening for a collaborative show, The Last Frontier, a surfers inner journey. Artists include: Barry McGee, Thomas Campbell, Chris Del Moro, Matt Beard, Micah Wood, Ash Francomb, Christine Brailsford, and Kris DeGrazio. Opening reception is 16 October, 6-10pm. Enjoy a complimentary brew and mingle with the artists. A portion of the proceeds will go towards Greenpeace. For other upcoming shows and screenings, refer to: http://www.greenflashartshop.com/

Green/flash: 111 Chesterfield Drive, Cardiff by the Sea

Beans, Beans.....

With a flash of Fall mixed among the hot days, I took the opportunity to whip up some homemade chili. It was spicy and chunky - just how we like it!

Ingredients:

* 1 lb ground turkey or beef

* 2 garlic cloves, minced

* 1 large can condensed tomato soup

* 1 can red kidney beans

* 1 can white kidney beans

* 2 peppers (green, yellow or red), chopped

* 1 medium onion, chopped

* salt, pepper, chili powder, cayenne pepper

* grated cheddar cheese

saute ground meat with a couple garlic cloves. in a separate pot mix remaining ingredients and add meat once cooked. simmer for an hour & serve topped with cheese. ENJOY

Storms & Slugs

On Friday San Diego experienced a rare thunderstorm. With over 2,000 lightening strikes, the storm made headlines. With dark clouds rolling in and the deep bass of thunder rumbling, it was a familiar sound of weather growing up on the east coast. Returning home that night to Cardiff by the Sea, we caught a gorgeous sunset. The magenta sky was eerily beautiful. As the clouds parted and the sun dipped to the sea, we spotted a slug inching along the cliffside railing. It appeared that everyone and everything was enjoying the passing weather.

*photos Megan.Christine

Shine On San Diego

Have you ever contemplated using solar power? With the sun shining almost every day in southern California, for free, and with the zero CO2 emissions from solar panels, it’s worth considering.
With sustainable and green practices on the rise, solar options are more readily available and affordable than before. The more we demand and push for alternative energy, it causes governments and businesses to invest in the technology, and the benefits will be passed down to us, the consumers.
This Saturday, 2 October 2010, join hundreds of San Diegans interested in solar for a self-guided Solar Home Tour all over greater San Diego. View installed systems, speak to homeowners and vendors, and get all your questions answered.
This event is part of the larger 15th Annual National Solar Tour, the worlds’ largest grassroots solar event, which showcases over 5,000 solar powered homes across America. With 50 homes in San Diego (including North County: Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, and Oceanside), view an interactive map at http://energycenter.org/solartour and plot out your route. The event introduces solar technologies, such as solar electric, solar heat and solar pool heating, that are used to reduce costs, harmful emissions and take advantage of tax credits and incentives.

Event: 2 October 2010, 11am-3pm, San Diego

Juice Me

I remember during childhood mixing fruit, like pears or strawberries, in the blender to make homemade popsicles. At the time, the health benefits were not as high of a concern as were the sweetness and taste. But, without realizing it, my Mother instilled in me the value of using fresh ingredients. Into adulthood, I find myself seeking out healthy alternatives and when possible, I prepare my own food. Rather than using processed products, I enjoy making homemade sauces, dressings and marinades.
After a recent trip to Bali, I was once again reintroduced to blended fruit, and was exposed to juiced vegetables. The beverages, thinner than a smoothie, were amazing. Free of syrups or additives, I felt my body thanking me for the nutrient packed snack.
Returning back to the States, I was determined to recreate those delicious drinks from Bali. I was given a Juicer as a gift recently, and I was finally able to test my skills. Using ingredients picked out at the Solana Beach Farmers Market (beet, carrot and ginger), I whipped up my favorite drink from The Good Earth, a café in Seminyak. I was so pleased with how easy it was to make, and how good it tasted!
Juicing is a healthy way to allow your body to absorb a larger amount of concentrated nutrients more quickly than solid foods. The process of digestion is bypassed and since raw ingredients are used, there are more enzymes. Enzymes have a vital role in converting food into energy and are also a defense against fighting disease.
But, if you don’t have a Juicer on hand, or shopping for ingredients isn’t convenient, there are some other ways to get your hands on a glass of juice. The chain, Jamba Juice, has many locations throughout North County. But there are also local business, like Froots in Carlsbad (2675 Gateway Road, www.froots.com), Juicers in Solana Beach (243 N Highway 101) or Maui Wowi in Oceanside (301 Mission Avenue, http://www.hawaiianblendsca.com/)

* images Megan.Christine