Monthly Archives: July 2013

“A man becomes what he thinks about…”

“Got to visualize a better day, to materialize a better way…” Sound familiar? It should! These lyrics only begin to expose the energy brought by one of my new favorite bands, Heritage.

Quick recap of how I met these guys. Simply put, I attended a local gig, connected after the show and then kept in touch. Here they were last winter (click here) to see the full post.

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This time around they played in Destin in which mom and I drove out to support their good vibe!

Her view…

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My view…

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Best view…

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After reconnecting with guys, I ventured over to the home base to help load up for the road as they depart to perform on the Vans Warped Tour! Printing and folding shirts, labeling merchandise and packing up. This is where the invite happened in which begins the next portion of this post.

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I’m going to continue this post by stopping you from reading. What? Yeh, it’s time for a short break to listen…and feel. Selfishly, it’ll make my post even better and secondly, you deserve to hear the good vibrations that spill from their music! One of my favorites is “Simplify”. Check it out at the Heritage Band website and gift yourself a moment with a song.

I’ll wait.

Now since you’ve experienced the sound, let’s take a journey with these fellas during just a small portion of their most recent tour.

These guys have been on the road for a bit and now there’s a group of us heading out to meet up with them. Before the sunrise, we prepped the 4 wheels with 5 girls (Me, Brittany, Gina, Jodi, and Jessica whom will all be described later) and the one and only princess of the crew, Alan.

First hour included the load up and a sunrise as we start the 7 hour road trip to our first show in St.Petersburg Florida.

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The next 6 hours included musical seats while searching for lost items, nap time and a final gas up with lunch.

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Finally arrived and ready to play!

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Once in the park, first and most important stop is the Heritage Booth. This is the place where all of those shirts we folded and goodies we packed are now on full display to sell to the public.

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We took a walk around to check out the other stages and scenery.

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The view behind the controlled chaos is extended water with a setting that allows for a deep breath… and a handstand of course!

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What time is it? 6:00… Show time! One thing I noticed with some of the other bands, is they would often start with a large crowd that would slowly dissipate. Heritage however, started with a few of us loyal bee’s upfront that turned into an amped up crowd. They’re magnetic!

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Some fun shots with a little effects thrown on the camera.

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After wrapping up an energetic set, they please some fans with a few photos before loading up and hitting the road again. To be continued in West Palm Beach!

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This days brings more smiles, another show and the Florida rain. As we pulled into the venue, it was clear that mud would be a definite part of the days entertainment.

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Time to officially meet the lovely ladies that I’ve been traveling with!

This is Jodi, there’s no question why she’s a great friend to the boys. The relaxed vibe and constant smile she carries, makes her comfortable to talk to and easy to be around.

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Looking at the photo, on the right is the guitarist wife, Brittnay. In my opinion, she’s best described as driven with determination, all clearly shown through in her vibrant confidence. In the middle is the managers girlfriend, Gina. She’s an Independent and hard working girl that also ended up being my “almost partner in crime”… that story will not make the blog. (Enter relieved giggle sound here). On the left is good friend to Brittany and the band, Jessica. A chill girl that’s happy to be around, I would say she’s sweet with a little spice.

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So, the storm finally lightened up enough to get us to the booth where fans hadn’t let the weather impact their event.

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The rain left us with a hug of humidity and a clear stage for the guys to dominate on. Again with my observation, as it starts with just a few of us…

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…and through hypnotizing energy and magnetic music, they pull a crowd that didn’t want to quit!

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The fun pics of this show…

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You guessed it… pack up, load out and after a cat nap we hit the road again. Next stop Orlando!

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This day brings a bitter sweet feeling for me as I say ciao for now to the group and head away for my next adventure. A special thanks to Tony Verrecchia – Lead Vocals, Damien Kealoha – Ukulele, Matt Moore – Bass, Hunter Dawson – Guitar, RJ Hernandez – Drums and Jamah Terry on Keys & Sax.

I fully appreciate the flexibility in my life to do such spontaneous things that bring wonderful people, exciting events and memories that last a lifetime. Thank you mom for allowing me to share our time and experience new moments, this means a lot to me.

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Next chapter brings a ride to the airport for my departure to the stunning island of Barbados!

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Cheers to new friends, the open road and one love.

Categories: Art, Uncategorized | Tags: , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Reduce, reuse and recycle… Into Art!

The Blue Giraffe was a huge hit last year as I introduced the gift boutique that sits perfectly on the historic road of 30A in Watercolor, Florida. This year, I’m going to go even deeper and expose some of the incredible people that share their work here. With over 90 artists and 70% being local, you can imagine the intimate vibe and comfortable feeling that this shop exudes.

Everything below is from different artist all using recycled material from the beach, the road, and anywhere else something could be left behind. Can you see the random items in these pieces?

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This canvas work is made from broken glass that’s perfect placed by the brilliant artist Mary Hong.

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Is drift wood always in your way when you’re playing in the water? Try creating an eye catching piece from it!

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On this day, one of the local artists have come to display a few new unique pieces that are made out of primarily salvaged and repurposed materials. From bottle caps to collectors soda cans, Alan Moore produces one of kind work… please enjoy!

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Below is his 2 eldest daughters, Emma and Isabella who also currently sell their artwork in galleries in Florida and Washington state. What a family!

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On this day, the Moore family guided a good ol’ art project and invited the public to join in! They provided the materials and helpful smiles while the participants brought creativity and patience. What a success!

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Of course I made one for my dear mom, I chose to use her favorite quote. The fun spirited “thumbs up” in the background is Alan himself!

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At the end of the day, the Moore family gave funny faces as we close up shop.

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I’m only assuming that several of you are interested in more of Alan’s work, so let me connect you!
Click here to be directed to the Moore Family Folk Art website.

Craving more from the The Blue Giraffe gallery? Push this fancy link!

Categories: Art, Uncategorized | Tags: , , , , , | 1 Comment

Jumbled July shenanigans in California

When some think of California they picture the long haired surfers living on a beach or possibly downtown Hollywood being packed with movie stars. Although that does makes up a small portion of this magnificent state, let me welcome you to Northern California and the natural beauty that comes with it!

This trip back was short and sweet, so I’d like to recap multiple visits. Simply click on any link below and viola, you’ll be directed to previous posts that go into detail of those magical destinations!

My hometown of Folsom. Yes, where the prison is from the Johnny Cash song.

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A day in the bay of San Francisco!

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Green + Sand + Blue = Lake Tahoe!

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Downtown in the capital city of Sacramento.

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River rafting (aka “floating”) down the American River.

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Here’s a direct link to last years July celebrations including house boating and a cattle drive parade!

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This July in California I was invited to several small gatherings that allowed me to pack in a variety of adventures.

I’ll start by recapping Yosemite with a few of my favorite photos. If you missed any of the detailed posts about this national park, click here.

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For this 4th of July, I headed back to the houseboat on Lake Oroville to celebrate the day of America’s independence! What do you do while stuck (to be said with sarcasm) on a boat for a few days with great people? Play, eat, swim, nap, drink and play!

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Check it out, my cup is a blog fan!

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20130720-152833.jpgWhen waking up on the final day, my dear friend Crystal and I thought a yoga session was the perfect way to rise with the bright sun!

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After thoroughly enjoying the natural beauty of the outdoors, I returned to town to partake in a few backyard events. Considering California broke heat records this year, I’ll start with pool parties and bbq’s!

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Recognize this little red headed doll? That’s my cousin from Oklahoma that I wrote about during the tornado’s last month. Now he gets to see California blue sky, 100 degree weather and play with “Keka’s” friends!

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This lovely couple is at the top of my “I want to be like you when I grown up” list. Maureen (aka Mo) and I have been friends since the days of finger paint, hair scrunchies and snack packs. Ben is her equally incredible husband that makes up the other half of this power duo. Ever wonder how many married couples still express their love through patience, consideration and open communication? Well, meet the Hillel’s and their newest addition (one of my favorite mini buddies) Cora.

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Themed Parties! This one is called “White Trash” or “Redneck”. The Urban dictionary defines this group as uneducated persons that comes from the backwoods with little awareness of the modern world with moral failings. An individual that may or may not be poor, but is monumentally ignorant and quite possibly stupid.
Spam carving contest, arm wrestling and a whipped cream Twinkie hunt leads to duck tape prizes and dancing. Notice the can stacks? It’s a game in which each time you finish a beer, you tape it to the bottom of your “stick”. (Clearly I don’t mine losing that game).

Why we base an entire gathering celebrating this with costumes, games and prizes? I’m still trying to figure it out myself…

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Moving on to a more “classy”” portion of my trip was visiting one of my favorite restaurants.

Sushi! For the sake of the fans out there, I’m going to share Mikunis and its enormous growth in popularity over the past 20 years. When I used to come here as a little girl, there were a few chairs in front of the chef and a couple tables that crowded a small dining area. With quality food and the dedication from the owner Taro, it has now expanded to a well known and award winning hotspot. Their menu website is also worth checking out if you’re in the need of growling stomach and a salivating mouth.

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The large wheel is for the “grown-ups” to spin on their birthday. Prizes range from a bag if rice up to $100 gift card! I’ve spun this wheel every year since my 9th birthday and now have a collection of mugs, t-shirts and chopsticks. This summer, I was thrilled to watch Cora spin on her first birthday… Special.

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Hungry yet?

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I’ve done an abundance of hair to replenish some travel funds and I did the annual dig through my storage unit to repack for future weather changes. I’ve gotten to hug old friends and make some new ones. Now I’m off to Florida to love on my dear mother!

Have I mentioned lately how much I love my life? Well, I do.

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Hot Springs or a Brewery? Both!

Im going to start right off with some fun comparison photos from past and present travels with this power group.

First photo is a picture we snapped in the sacred city of Machu Picchu. Without knowing what the others were doing, we all agreed this would make a great album cover!

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Second album cover comes from Yosemite, California.

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Girls will be girls… Night trek to Aguascalientes followed by volunteering in Huambutio and a night in Mammoth.

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Ninja shot in Machu Picchu!

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Ninja shot in Yosemite!

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Attempt at an over the head group shot…

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…and again in The Redwoods!

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Well that was fun! Now moving on to a local brewery in Mammoth. This is the tasting room in which they eagerly share their latest creations while bragging on their oldies but goodies. If you’re a beer connoisseur or even just a fan of trying new things, this pit stop is well worth it!

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Back to the outdoors as they treat us to our last night in this beautiful part of Central California. Do you see that street with hot springs and camp sites? Me neither. That’s the beauty of this hidden gem!

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If you know about this special place, the view will remind you of the short journey it takes to reach the hot springs.

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The 2ft deep pool is built of rocks and cement making it just the right size to fit a small group of people. Fed by natural hot springs in the Eastern Sierra, water is piped in and controlled by a hot water valve. This spout keeps the temperatures maintained in the low 100’s, to prevent extreme heat for anyone taking a soak. The pool also faces the Sierra Nevada’s, which makes for an incredible backdrop!

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After 2 adventurous days packed with activities, we now find it perfect timing to indulge in natures little hot tub. I must say our wardrobe choices awkwardly compliment one another.

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Well thank you amazing universe for this incredible sunset to compliment our midnight dip.

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Dear Ann and Colin, from the moment we met, I knew this was a friendship that was far beyond a “hello” and “goodbye” in Ecuador. With Peru following and a reunion in California, I continue to keep my hopes high with another connection abroad!
Hayden, you are what some define as a “trooper”. You jumped in, buckled up and made this ride even more memorable. Thank you!

I am surrounded by quality people that I’m proud to call my friends.

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: , , , , , | 1 Comment

Gas station gourmet food!

That space in time in which the reality of your insignificance is brought to your attention.

A brief instant in which your largest worries, all of sudden seem so small.

Those moments you begin to feel just how grand this world really is.

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While our hands healed from the climbing and our muscles reminded us of their existence, Hayden and I explored to find some easy trekking as Colin and Ann scaled another cliff side. Handstand shot!

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Although there was a clearly marked trail, we decided to use the river as our guide instead! (Actually, we lost the path and just hugged the water until we made our way back). Please take notice to his head scratching focus for our future steps. I’m quickly finding out that one of the best parts of Yosemite is that getting lost just leads to more beautiful sights and an entertaining route back to base.

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A few creative photos using effects on my camera.

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We’ve finished up our adventure and now it’s time to meet up with the group for dinner.

For the average tourist passing through, this is a typical gas station with your necessary snacks and a few souvenirs for sale. To the frequent local traveler, “The Mobile” is a well known social hangout that provides live music, quality eats a selection of adult beverages.

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Also, a free fresh water spout to refill your drinking bottles!

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The Whoa Nellie Deli has a kitchen that was started by the renowned chef Matt Toomey, serving up a range of dishes from lobster taquitos to buffalo meatloaf and complimenting them with mango margaritas and local beer on tap. Colin and Ann eagerly shared their fish tacos, while Hayden and split the Seared Ahi Tuna.

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With blues playing in the background, a delicious meal and great company, we wrapped up dinner to head to our final evening together. Just outside of Mammoth, here’s a sneak peak of the sunset from my next post!

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Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: , , , , | 1 Comment

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