Weekend color

An inspired meal

My new job has kept me pretty busy just because there's a lot to learn, and it's a busy time for us.  Hence, I haven't had much time to cook or engage in the things I enjoy. 

Fortunately, I got the chance to pick some figs from a friend's tree last night and used them tonight to make roasted pork loin with figs in a balsamic reduction (it sounds so fancy). 

It was all very inspired and came together last minute.  Plus, I just like fruit mixed into savory dishes. I made a simple glaze with balsamic vinegar, honey, herbs de provence, and S&P.  I added shallots, figs, and pork loin (on sale, friends) and roasted everything in my trusty cast iron pan. 

This meal was a nice sign that life could slow down for a moment, and my energy could go into something creative and nourishing. 

Life

Emily Henderson

I have learned so much about decorating from the amazing Emily Henderson.  I loved her on Design Stars, love her HGTV show "Secrets from a Stylist," and now love her instructional videos.

This one was especially helpful. 


mixing patterns from modshift on Vimeo.

Weaving

Weaving is the new DIY craft of the moment so I hopped on the bandwagon, and it's been fun!  I bought this vintage potholder kit on Ebay for a few bucks and have been experimenting with twine and yarn.  I'm hoping to create a little base for my plant so that the base doesn't scratch my desk at work.  I like the neon green and twine combo (neon, also a trend at the moment :)

I'm such a homebody.  I'd rather stay at home and weave than go out (especially at night).  I think "home" is my favorite place in the world. 

 *Update: I finished my first weaving.  Now it's off to bed.

Miroco Machiko

I love the vibrant, child-like, abstract work of Miroco Machiko.  I also love the kitties napping in the artist's studio (all images from artist's website).

Summer recipes

Some food updates that I have also been posting on Facebook:
1. The dark chocolate Speculoos filled candy bar from TJs is amazing.
2. Quinoa is really good!  I tried these quinoa tacos earlier this week and they inspired me to create a quinoa taco recipe - blue corn tortillas + red quinoa + avocado citrus salsa = magic.
3. I haven't had this in a while but I've been thinking about my favorite breakfast burrito - whole wheat tortilla + fried or scrambled egg + swiss cheese + avocado + with a squirt of Sriracha.  So good!
4. Tuna salad makeover - tuna packed in olive oil (it's a lot more flavorful) + chopped kale + red onion + chopped dill pickles + served on whole grain bread.

I wish I had pictures but alas, I do not.  Maybe I'll post some when I make these dishes again.