Your Life Is Your Story

Everyone has a story.  Too bad most people never tell it. 

Shortly after embarking on this new 365 Challenge, I signed up to take an online class called "Writing Your Life Story."  Over 8 weeks, I joined 20+ other students as we slowly learned how to clear out the cobwebs and formulate our story.  

It's on my "bucket list" - to write my story.  While I'm still pretty young to be thinking of such a thing, I often times use personal experiences when I'm teaching, coaching or training others and many times am told "you need to write a book!"  Well... I plan to.  This was the first step.

It was a little weird being in a class again (it's been a really long time).  Having homework.  Sharing writing assignments and receiving constructive feedback.  Taking quizes and a final exam.  But it was all worth it.  I loved the class and plan to continue using what I learned.  

Plus I got 100% A+.  Now that made me really smile!

Surprise!

My MawMaw turned 80 on September 14th and while she begs us to stop reminding her of the exact number.. it's something to celebrate.  She's such a giver... always making sure others's needs are taken care of and celebrating their successes.  But this was her day (well, my sister's too but she turned 32 and graciously gave  up the limelight this one time) and we intended to make it one for the books.  Several months ago we starting planning a surprise party... recruiting her kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews, siblings-in-law, sisters, brothers... the list goes on and on.  With close to 100 people RSVP'd, we just prayed it would stay a surprise.  

The two birthday girls - Tricia and Pat

So many details to figure out... so many people to coordinate... and the constant fear I'd slip and say something to her.  This was the first time I threw a surprise party like this (especially from a different state!) and I'm not sure I'd repeat the experience.  She WAS surprised.  We had 94 people show up.  Everything went beautifully. But man was it a lot of work!  

Just a few of the guests (and a whole lotta family!

At the end of the day... it was all worth it.  She had a WONDERFUL time and we made some really special memories.  Here's to her living to 100! - Christina

Happy Birthday to you...

Me, Tricia (sister), MawMaw, Laura (sister)

"SURPRISE!!!" 

Persimmon = Fail

I won't bore you with graphic details... but let's just agree that I don't like persimmons.  While in Louisiana on my recent trip, my MawMaw's neighbor brought one over for us to try.  After hearing from my aunt how it "made her constipated" I wasn't too excited to put this mushy looking fruit in my mouth.  Should've gone with that instinct.  Bland and mushy.  That's the only way to describe it.  From what I've read they are supposed to be super healthy... but who cares?! So are strawberries and those taste yummy.  This was one new experience that I did not enjoy. ~ Christina

Baby Training

I had the immense pleasure of hanging with baby Brooklyn this past week... What a little cutie she is! Brooklyn is my sister Tricia's youngest daughter and the happiest baby I've been around. When you have three little ones, you welcome all the help you can get... especially in public. Since its rare that I get to see her, I jumped on the chance to spend one on one time with her. But because she's so little I also got to experience the Baby Bjorn. You know... that little backwards backpack looking device you see mothers wearing with small babies strapped to their front. I've never worn one of them before so it was definitely interesting getting it on (especially over a larger than normal chest)... But let me tell you how fabulous they are!! I got to snuggle with Brookie for extended periods of time while doing all sorts of things... Including enjoying a party, sharing a few cocktails, wearing high heels, chasing after her sisters... The list goes on and on. I know my sister enjoyed having a little break and I found a newfound respect for one of the most necessary (imho) baby accessories. :) - Christina

Our Family Portrait

As a combined family, I have looked forward to our first family portrait since day 1. Thanks to Portrait Simple in the Warwick Mall and a fantastic photographer named Lindsey, we were finally able to capture the joy we have to be such a fun and large family! As unique as our family is, you can be sure our portraits would reflect the same. See for yourself below:

MS Seminar for the Newly Diagnosed

This First was beyond scary. I wasn't jumping out of a plane or auditioning for the Voice but I was going out of my comfort zone. \

I'm blessed to belong to the Rhode Island Chapter of the National MS Society, an organization built on the thought of providing resources for patients of and caregivers to people with Multiple Sclerosis. Recently, I received an invitation for a seminar given by the chapter for people who have been diagnosed within the last four years. Having been diagnosed this past February put me well within that range so armed with my trusty notebook for note taking, my biggest Confident smile, and my loving husband, I walked in ready to walk right back out.  It's not that I didn't want to help or to hear more about this (for lack of a better word) crappy disease, I just wasn't sure I could handle meeting others with more progressive forms of MS. Little did I know, I'd find the one person who has made the biggest difference in our world this year within the first ten minutes of being there. She introduced me to someone else who had a ton of viable information for me and so it began. The first night of acceptance and facing my fear of MS. *Jasmine

PeaPod

With four rambunctious kids, we go through most groceries in just a few days, causing me to do multiple Stop & Shop runs throughout the week. As you can imagine, this gets hectic! Most of the time, I'm on my own for these trips with the four little ones so I'm wrangling them down the dairy aisle, shielding their eyes from the candy and soda aisle and pushing them towards the fruits and veggies...And then...I discovered PeaPod! Well actually, Rich did- but that's besides the point!

After the first few minutes of trying to picture all of the products on my list in an online catalog, I got the hang of the moderately simple website and have used it twice in the last two weeks.  For budget consiouce families, this is so wallet friendly it's fantastic!  No more surprise "must haves" at the register or impulse magazine buys!

From my fingertips and computer to my door, PeaPod has been a lifesaver and I plan to keep to it! And with 60 days of free delivery- It's even better! *Jasmine
www.peapod.com

A Hole

At a recent "High School Friends Reunion Party" I hosted for my husband, I was ushered into my dinig room for an impromptu game of gards. Having heard the stories of their previous "parties" I wasn't sure what to expect, but sat down at the head of the table and proceeded to play "Asshole." With rules such as "The president makes up any rule they want, " you never skip the president," and one must drink whenever someone tells you to," this seemed more like Anything Goes meets musical chairs meets Frat party! I still couldn't tell you how to play the game and I'm pretty sure I lost ALOT... but we had a blast! Just don't look for pictures on this post- You may hae to check out Facebook for that! *Jasmine

The Rules of the game according to www.52pickup.net:

A drinking and card game, Asshole sounds a bit complicated at first, but is actually quite simple. The goal is to get rid of all cards in a hand as quick as possible. With each round that is won, a player’s rank can increase.

How to Play Asshole

To begin playing, the players must all create a hierarchy. Usually something along the lines of President, Vice-President, Treasurer, etc. with the lowest being labeled the Asshole.

Next the ranking of cards is decided upon, and in a game of Asshole the Aces are usually the high card, with the two cards being viewed as the “power” card.

Each player receives six cards and the group chooses the first player to go. They lead with their opening hand, which is placed in the middle of the table, and play continues in the direction decided upon by the group.

The players must follow the lead or pass. To follow requires placing a card higher than the opening player’s. This can mean that players are obliged to beat the first player’s single card, or even a set of cards that they have used. For example, the opening player might lay down a pair of fives, which means that the next player must have a pair of sixes or higher. If they don’t, then they must pass and passing is allowed even if the play is beatable.

The game continues until someone makes a play that everyone passes. All of the cards on the table are turned face down and the player who played last starts again with a new card or set of cards.

When a player is out of cards, the game continues until there is only one player with cards remaining.

The first without cards becomes the President (or whatever ranking title was selected) and the last player with cards becomes the Asshole.

Points are awarded to the top two ranking players, with two points to the President and one point to the player beneath them.
Now, all players must move to their ranking seats to continue with the game. This means the President selects their chair, and the remaining players sit in rank from the President’s left.

The Asshole is the dealer from this point forward, and the first card is dealt to the President and so on. Once the deal is complete, the Asshole is obliged to give their highest valued card to the President, who in turn can give them any card he/she doesn’t want.The President then leads the play.

This round continues in the same way as the previous game, and seating is always adjusted according to the winners and losers of each round.

Before the game begins, the players will agree upon a target score and as soon as someone reaches this point the game is over.
Many people play this game as a drinking game as well, with the President being able to order anyone of lower rank to consume an alcoholic beverage when they lose. The next in command is also given this power, but cannot ask the President to drink. Usually this means that the ranking players can keep themselves more clear-headed as the game progresses.

QiYoga for a Cause: YogaAid

(R-L) Me, Katy and Maria This morning I had the immense honor of co-facilitating an event that was part of the WORLDWIDE "YogaAid World Challenge". Yogis around the world united in one single expression of intention.  The "Yoga Relay" began in Sydney, traveled around the globe through 20+ countries at 200+ events, and will end at sundown tonight in Los Angeles. The goal to raise over $1 Million dollars for charities around the world.   My co-facilitator, friend and fellow Vixen, Maria Mendel, and I led an outdoor class in a unique blend of Qigong and Hatha Yoga.  As with any outdoor event, we were at the mercy of mother nature and for a while we weren't sure she would cooperate but in the end she pulled through like a champ.  Not only did it not rain on us (like all of the weathermen predicted), we were graced with a breathtaking complete rainbow during the practice (before the rain!)  Because of the anticipated rain, our group dwindled from the registered 34 attendees to a meager but mighty 8... but it turned out perfectly!  This was the first time I "officially" taught a yoga class (since going through my teaching certification), and it was the first time Maria and I taught together.  It was also the first time either of us had combined the two practices to create our very own version of "QiYoga".  All in all... it was a great morning.  The impending rain (that did finally visit AS SOON as we were done) brought a cooler morning and fall-like breezes making it quite enjoyable outdoors. All donations collected will be going to the YogaGansters (http://yogagangsters.org/).  Yoga Gangsters is a Miami-based non-profit organization that empowers youth who are at-risk or in-crisis through the science and practice of yoga by addressing the symptoms of trauma and poverty such as limited education, addiction, violence, incarceration, teen pregnancy, HIV and more. They offer classes at many South Florida locations working within the juvenile justice system, in hospitals, schools, youth centers and other non-profit organizations.To learn more about YogaAid: www.yogaaid.com.  If you'd like to learn more about OUR organization, the Volunteer Vixens, we invite you to click on the link at the top of this page! Me and Maria - Ready to teach! An hour before our practice, this rainbow peaked out... then DURING our practice we got a full (vibrant) rainbow.  No pics of it though :( A few shots of the practice in motion

Curried Chicken Pizza Pockets

Food Network Magazine has been my Go To for new and easy recipes for our family. Last month’s issue had pizza pockets of all types featured. Growing up on “Hot Pockets” I thought it would be fun to try something new so I gave Curry Chicken Pizza Pockets a try. While the Curry Chicken Came out great, the whole pizza pocket thing didn’t come out too great. Definitely NOT a hit with myself or the kids!  Next time I may try a different type of bread dough, or just skip the break entirely and eat the Curry Chicken on its own! *Jasmine

Curried Chicken Pizza Pockets

*adapted from Food Network Magazine

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, plus more for brushing
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1/4 cup peas
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Flour for dusting
• 11 oz. tube refrigerated French bread
• 1 egg

Preparation:

Heat the vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, curry powder, ginger and garlic. Cook until fragrant, about one to two minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the chicken.

Stir in the cilantro, peas, yogurt, lime juice to the chicken and let the mixture cool completely.

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees and brush a baking sheet lightly with oil. On a floured surface, roll out the bread dough to a 6×8 inch rectangle. Divide in fourths. Put one quarter of the filling inside the center of each rectangle. Fold over the two shorter sides, then the longer sides to enclose the filling. Pinch the edges to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling. Place the packets seam side down on the baking sheet. Brush the bread with the beaten egg and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the pockets are golden brown.

Chicken and Corn Chili

Our family has tried transitioning from beef to more chicken and turkey products recently. Being the chili lover that I am, however, I needed to come up with a recipe that still gave me the great flavor that regular chili does, without the Red Meat.  And so the idea of Chicken Chili was born! I found this great recipe and it was a big hit throughout the family.  In fact, It will be making an appearance on out table tonight!

 

Chicken and Corn Chili

·         1 tablespoon olive oil

·         2 cups chopped onion

·         4 large garlic cloves, minced

·         1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins, washed and cubed

·         1 large jalapeno pepper, seeded, finely chopped

·         1 teaspoon ground coriander

·         2 teaspoons ground cumin

·         2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes in juice

·         2 cans Great Northern beans (16 oz) drained and rinsed well

·         juice of 1 lime

·         2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed, or fresh

·         salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

·         1/2 cup sour cream

·         1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

·         2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick saucepan over medium-high heat. When oil is very hot, add onion and garlic; saute until onion begins to brown, Add cubed chicken and brown on all sides; add chopped jalapeno, coriander, cumin, crushed tomatoes and beans. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes; add juice of one lime and stir in the corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Cook chicken chili, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes longer; serve with sour cream, chopped red onion and chopped cilantro.

Enjoy!*Jasmine

Mango = Dislike!

This won't be one of my more exciting "new" experiences... but it was a first none-the-less.  Can you believe I've NEVER tried mangoes before?  I don't know why.  Just haven't.  And in the spirit of experiencing new things... I optimistically picked up a couple at the farmer's market.  I've liked every other new food tried so far... why wouldn't I like a mango?!  FAIL. I do not like mangoes... so I've discovered.  There is something about it's taste that is just not appealing to me.  Eww... actually I dislike them very much.  So now I have another mango left over... what do I do with it?! Maybe I'll just juice it.  Throw it in with a bunch of other fruit and I'll never taste it.  Maybe?  ~ Christina

Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway

Our view from the tram- and we weren't even at the top yet!

Let me begin by saying I have a terrible fear of heights, but in the essence of trying new things, The Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway seemed like just the right NEW thing for the day. I pushed my fear aside, hopped on the tram car with about 30 other people and made the trek up the 4200 foot summit of Cannon Mountain. Aside from slight rocking, it was a smooth ride and the guides did a great job of keeping our minds filled with fun facts other than the idea of this large car carting us up a mountain by a wire. Omce at the top, we walked about a half a mile to the observation deck where we were able to see 3 Canadian states, Connecticut, Maine, and perhaps even Rhode Island although I'm not quite sure about that one. I'm nt sure I'd recommend the walk from the tram stop to the observation deck for someone with a mobility disability as it was super difficult on the steepest parts, but the tram itself is certainly worth it! *Jasmine



You'll see the observation deck just above my head if you squint your eyes and look very closely! I did it!

At the top of the oservation deck

The Flume Gorge

It's common knowledge that I have MS and sometime I find it difficult to walk on flat ground, let alone hike up stairs and mountains for two miles. After seeing and hearing all about this amazing area of the White Mountains, though, NOT doing it was NOT an option. According to the NH State Parks website, "The Flume was discovered in 1808 by 93-year-old “Aunt” Jess Guernsey when she accidently came upon it while fishing. She had trouble convincing her family of the marvelous discovery, but eventually persuaded others to come and see for themselves. At that time, a huge egg-shaped boulder hung suspended between the walls. The rock was 10 feet (3m) high and 12 feet (3.6m) long. A heavy rainstorm in June of 1883 started a landslide that swept the boulder from its place. It has never been found. The same storm deepened the gorge and formed Avalanche Falls."

This truly was a masterpiece of nature and I am so happy that I had the opportunity to experience it! *Jasmine

Dipping my achey feet in the natural stream after the 2 miles trek up and down the Gorge

Clarks Trading Post

Coming from the land of Disney and all things super intense attraction wise, I wasn't sure what to expect from a seemingly small town attraction such as Clark's Trading Post. I was pleasantly surprised. Orginally developed in the early 20's by the Clark family, this small amusement park is still run primarlity by direct family members of the original Clarks.  Known for their trained bears, the family lovingly trains and cares for the 9 bears tehy have on property, feeding them ice cream and cuddles throughout the show.

With silly shows such as Tuttle's Rustic House or the Wolfman Train Ride, there is something for everyone to enjoy at a reasonable low price. The only con- take a picnic basket, as there are limited food options especially for children with allergies or picky eaters. *Jasmine

Camping in the White Mountains

Best time ever!

To celebrate the end of the summer, we took the four kids, packed up the mini van, and drove to the WHite Mountains of New Hampshire for an extended weekend campout. Met by our good friends, Mike and Lindsay, and tehir son Gavin, we we super excited to experience something new.  As this was only my second time camping, I was a bit nervous about what to expect. Our first camping experience was a resort by all means, pools, hot running water, bathrooms, steps away, and family activities for all. This- well, it was the complete opposite. Our picnic table even hadBear warnings taped to it. I alf expected to see Yogi and Boo Boo trying to steal our picnic basket in the middle of dinner. :)

On our way!

And this is why the battery died!

Aside from setting up during a torrential downpour in the dead of night,raining camp fires every night, dead car batteries upon departure, odd noises in the middle of the night, and a ridiculous amount of Daddy Long Legs, we had an incredible time at the Campton Campground. Next time, however, I will be sure to find hot water at the campsite before anything else! *Jasmine

Moroccan Chickpeas and Couscous (Vegan)

Tonight I decided to do a little Moroccan!  First time cooking a Moroccan dish... and I must say that I wasn't quite sure I was going to like it.  The combination of jalapeños, onion and raisins seemed like an odd one to me but I went with it.  Surprisingly it was yummy!  Heavy on the jalapeños and onions for some people I'm sure... but I know both are full of healthy goodness and I actually liked it.  Really good mix-up to my normal vegan eats.  Love trying new recipes and having them work out!  Here's a pic of the final product! ~ Christina

Sketchbook Project 2012

Reading one of the art books

A few weeks ago I signed up to take part in this global crowd-sourced art project and THEN realized they were making a stop in Orlando.  What great luck is that?! Tonight was the first night of their Orlando leg... and tomorrow from 3pm-7pm they'll be back at it.  So glad my girl Gabs dragged me out of the studio today with a reminder of this event.

The Sketchbook Project is a worldwide creative experience. Together, thousands of regular people from around the world form a traveling library of handmade books. And it's not just for artists. This project is for anyone who craves an outlet for that undeniable creative bug. Anyone — from anywhere — regardless of his or her creative background can participate. It's pretty simple.  You sign up (there is a $25 participation fee that helps to fund the project), they will send you a package containing a custom-designed Sketchbook Project sketchbook with a barcode on it, your chosen theme, and detailed instructions about the project. When you’re ready, just mail your sketchbook back to them. Your sketchbook will be archived in the Brooklyn Art Library and exhibited to the public through the traveling exhibition!  

My art heading to Austin!

Tonight Gabby and I got to check out this exhibit... and what amazing talent is included!  The staff is just wonderful which adds to the experience.  After perusing through the library, we made a little "travel art" to send on to their next stop in Austin, TX.  Before leaving we got our own travel art from past stops.  Mine was from Ontario, Canada.  Its just an overall fabulously fun event. Highly recommend check it out.  And please consider taking part with me!  $25 to be a part of something like this isn't much at all. Once my book is digitally archived, I'll add the link to my website (www.rhythmsofgracegallery.com) to share with everyone.  I'm guessing next Spring sometime.  Should be a fun project!   ~ C

If you want to sign up to participate, here is the link: http://www.arthousecoop.com/projects/sketchbookproject.

Coffee Table Art

This little experiment was actually for my upcoming art festival.  I get asked a lot of I would consider creating prints of my work so I could sell it for less and in mass production.  My answer has always been no (and continues to be).  I don't create art for the masses or as a "job."  I do it because I love it.  So in preparing for the upcoming festival I decided to take a stab at creating something different.  Vendors tend to do better at these shows with smaller pieces... items that cost less and are easy to carry around (large paintings aren't easy to tote around in 95 degree weather and a perimeter of 1 mile).  So I thought... what if I created smaller versions of some of my art (past and present) but in a unique format?  Well... here's what I came up with!  Coffee Table Art.  Four selected paintings turned into cork based coasters.  What do you think?!  The idea is being unveiled on this blog only... and will then be sold during the art festival if it works out.  The idea is someone can pick four of their favorite pieces and walk away with only spending a small amount as opposed to hundreds of dollars if they had bought all four paintings.  

I think it turned out pretty cute.  What do you think?  I'd love to know your thoughts.  This is a sample of the first test product using four paintings that are actually not even available any longer - which makes it that much better I think, right?!  ~ Christina

Lemon Garlic Chickpea Patties (Vegan of Course!)

This weekend I decided to plan the week's menu based around a Mediterranean theme and this recipe seemed to fit right in to that.  Plus it's pretty inexpensive and simple to make.  Today I had the pattie served in a wrap with lettuce, tomato and a little miso mayo.  I won't bore you with the details... if you want the receipt, comment below.  It's yummy, that's for sure!  I like trying new recipes... sorta like art but a type I get to eat. ~ Christina

Upcycled Worn T-Shirt

As we've already established here on this blog, I've become a little domestic diva over the past thirty days.  I love how instead of new experiences that cost something, I've found ways to try something new here at my home.  Many of my past "new" adventures have led to something more (did I tell you I actually am getting paid to build a website for someone after they saw my Rhythms of Grace Gallery one?!)  It's been such fun!  

I LOVE accessories and could easily spend my entire paycheck on cheap baubles that will add short-term color and finesse to an outfit.  But as a consultant (and artist), money is managed a little differently around my house these days.  Tighter. :)  I've seen these signature piece necklaces before and love them... bright, big and usually made out of unique materials... I love how it can add such personality to a simple mono-colored outfit.  Today's craft turned an old t-shirt (that was really just taking up real estate in my over-stuffed closet) into a fabulously bright signature nautical style necklace.  I looked around the world wide web at a few "DIY" instructionals until I felt comfortable enough making one myself.  And here it is!  I think it came out pretty cute.  What do you think?  A free accessory upcycled from an old tee.... what could be more fabulous!?  Wanna know HOW to make it? I'd hop over to this fabulous blog and check out these instructions.  They are really clear and easy to follow (compared to some of the others I stumbled upon).  This works BEST with an old tshirt that's a little worn and really soft. http://www.refinery29.com/jersey-necklace Happy Crafting!! ~ Christina

Homemade Peanut Butter (Vegan/Gluten & Sugar Free)

Homemade Peanut Butter... I would never have thought to attempt this.  I don't know why, but I just wouldn't have.  This one is all thanks to a dear friend who told me about her successful attempt at doing this... and it sounded so simple and delicious I had to try it!  I PROMISE you won't be disappointed.  My version is vegan/sugar-free/gluten-free but you can certainly alter the recipe to make it your own.  I've provided the recipe and all of the steps below... so you HAVE to try it now. No excuses!

This makes about 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter Ingredient: 16 ounces roasted (lightly salted) peanuts.  Really, that's all! Add peanuts to the canister of a food processor, process on high power until creamy and smooth, about 5 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides of the canister if necessary (it wasn't for me and I have a really small processor).  Because my processor is tiny, I had to make mine in two batches (maybe a total of 10 minutes all together).

The peanuts will go through stages of: crushed, crushed into a fine powder, a paste, a thicker paste, a big “dough ball”, and then the ball will break down into runnier peanut butter. At the point the peanut butter is runny, continue processing for about 1 more minute, making sure the peanut butter is as smooth as desired. If you're a "crunchy" peanut butter fan you can stop before it's too smooth.

I recycled an old jar to store my peanut butter and keep it in the refrigerator. The refrigerator helps it to stay thicker. You can store the peanut butter at room temperature where it will keep for at least a week. Keep in mind this doesn't have preservatives in it so a week at room temperature and a month or so in the refrigerator.

Get creative! You can certainly do this with dry roasted, salted, unsalted, mixed nuts or spicey nuts.  Add salt to taste (I didn't add any). Add whatever you want to make it yours... chocolate, coffee grounds, spices, liquor.. the list goes on and on.

That's it!  Seriously.... soooo easy and healthy.  

This peanut butter has nothing but peanuts in it (that are slightly salted so there's salt too).  My old favorite peanut butter (Jiff Reduced Fat) has peanuts, corn syrup solids, soy protein, sugar, molasses, salt, fully hydrogenated vegetable oils, pridoxine hydrochloride, blah, blah, blah.  I can't even pronounce most of the remaining items (and there's like 10 more!).  No thank you.  I'm sold... homemade peanut butter for me. 

Thanks Gabbs!!  ~ Christina

Arj Barker: High-larious Entertainment

The Flight of the Conchords.  Jay Leno, David Letterman and Conan O'Brien appearances.  The Marijuana Monologues.  Comedy Central Specials. The accolades go on and on for the Aussie native.  But did you know Arj Barker is best known for his Star Trek style haircut?!  Not everyone can put that on a resume.  This laid-back Californian is in Orlando this weekend headlining at the Orlando Improv and a group of friends and I decided to pay him a visit last night.  

I've gotta be honest here... I chose to see him simply because I thought he was cute.  Haha... I know.  Looks have nothing to do with ability, but I'm being honest here.  Plus I got free tickets.  So a few friends and I met up for a night of laughs and we certainly weren't disappointed.  Though I do have one complaint... the comedians seemed to have smoked a little TOO much pot before the show. Glassy eyes shouldn't be that obvious from the audience.  Jokes seemed to falter at times (almost like they forgot the punchline) and left us wondering where the funny went.  But it returned and overall it was a great night.  Arj chooses to explore some pretty interesting topics in the midst of such a politically charged time in our country but we had fun and that's all that matters.  He's in town through Sunday if you're interested - check him out at http://www.theimprovorlando.com. As always, the team at Orlando Improv is awesome.  Definitely one of my favorite venues in Florida. ~ Christina