Long Beach After Sandy....
December 05, 2012
October 09, 2012
A Must Try
I have to share a recipe with you..I have made this dish 3 times this week already..why? because its so good, so easy and so healthy! If you have 5 minutes and a few ingredients then you can have this yummy riceless risotto..
what you will need:
1 cup of gluten free quick-cook oats (I got mine at trader joes)
2 cups of chicken broth (for a healthier twist buy organic, free range chicken broth)
2 tbs of reduced fat cream cheese
1 tbsp of rosemary
sea salt, pepper and parmesean cheese to taste
optional: any vegetables (this week I added mushrooms too, yummy)
optional: cooked chicken (haven't tried yet, I am spoiled by the 5 minute meal part, chicken seemed like too much effort this week)
what you do:
combine oats and broth in a microwave safe bowl and cook for 2 min
remove bowl and add frozen peas and mushrooms (or any other veggie and chicken) also add cream cheese, salt, pepper, cheese and cook for 2 more minutes in microwave
remove bowl, mix together, add rosemary and enjoy!
what you will need:
1 cup of gluten free quick-cook oats (I got mine at trader joes)
2 cups of chicken broth (for a healthier twist buy organic, free range chicken broth)
2 tbs of reduced fat cream cheese
1 tbsp of rosemary
sea salt, pepper and parmesean cheese to taste
optional: any vegetables (this week I added mushrooms too, yummy)
optional: cooked chicken (haven't tried yet, I am spoiled by the 5 minute meal part, chicken seemed like too much effort this week)
what you do:
combine oats and broth in a microwave safe bowl and cook for 2 min
remove bowl and add frozen peas and mushrooms (or any other veggie and chicken) also add cream cheese, salt, pepper, cheese and cook for 2 more minutes in microwave
remove bowl, mix together, add rosemary and enjoy!
August 21, 2012
I believe
I believe...
...that there are mostly good people in the world
...that we all have a lot to learn
...that God doesn't mind who we love and neither should anyone else
...that all animals go to heaven
...that kindness is the true religion
...that New York pizza is the best in the world
...that you can never make everyone happy, so it's best to stop trying
...that you get what you give
...that you are what you eat
...that laughter is the best medicine
...that my dog knows what I'm thinking
...that life isn't fair but karma is
...that a glass of red wine can make everything alright
...that if you have health you have everything
...that in the end, our daily stresses aren't worth the worry
...that God has a plan for each of us, though we might not understand it
...that sometimes not getting what we want is the best thing that ever happened to us
...that everything little thing is going to be alright
...that there are mostly good people in the world
...that we all have a lot to learn
...that God doesn't mind who we love and neither should anyone else
...that all animals go to heaven
...that kindness is the true religion
...that New York pizza is the best in the world
...that you can never make everyone happy, so it's best to stop trying
...that you get what you give
...that you are what you eat
...that laughter is the best medicine
...that my dog knows what I'm thinking
...that life isn't fair but karma is
...that a glass of red wine can make everything alright
...that if you have health you have everything
...that in the end, our daily stresses aren't worth the worry
...that God has a plan for each of us, though we might not understand it
...that sometimes not getting what we want is the best thing that ever happened to us
...that everything little thing is going to be alright
August 02, 2012
Think
One of the things I have realized over the last few months, with the help of yoga, is that our thoughts ultimately determine everything; our mood, daily happiness, stress level etc. If we can learn to control our thoughts by staying positive and rejecting negative thinking, we have the power to change our lives.
The mind is so powerful. It controls everything in the body including how we feel. Lucky for us we have some control over this element. I don't know about you but sometimes my mind races and I can be very negative in my own head. Buddha says what we think, we become and it is so true. Once we are able to recognize, reject and refocus these thoughts we can be happier, healthier individuals.
One of the best ways to change your thought process is to practice gratitude. Each day think about all the things in your life you are grateful for. ("I am grateful for this beautiful weather" "I am thankful for clean water and healthy food" "I have the best family, I am so lucky" etc) When we actively concentrate on these kinds of things instead of "I feel so fat" "It is so hot out, I am so uncomfortable" "I am so annoyed that he did that" it helps clear the mind refocus on the positive.
It is a process. We can't change how we think overnight but if we work at it a little each day, eventually it will come naturally. What we think, we become. Simple as that. I promise it's true. Give daily thoughts of gratitude and positivity a try, you'll be glad you did.
The mind is so powerful. It controls everything in the body including how we feel. Lucky for us we have some control over this element. I don't know about you but sometimes my mind races and I can be very negative in my own head. Buddha says what we think, we become and it is so true. Once we are able to recognize, reject and refocus these thoughts we can be happier, healthier individuals.
One of the best ways to change your thought process is to practice gratitude. Each day think about all the things in your life you are grateful for. ("I am grateful for this beautiful weather" "I am thankful for clean water and healthy food" "I have the best family, I am so lucky" etc) When we actively concentrate on these kinds of things instead of "I feel so fat" "It is so hot out, I am so uncomfortable" "I am so annoyed that he did that" it helps clear the mind refocus on the positive.
It is a process. We can't change how we think overnight but if we work at it a little each day, eventually it will come naturally. What we think, we become. Simple as that. I promise it's true. Give daily thoughts of gratitude and positivity a try, you'll be glad you did.
July 15, 2012
Perfect Gift
Frank and I are celebrating our 8 year anniversary this weekend..I wanted to get him something sentimental.. something we could have forever and that would help us remember this wondeful time in our lives. I saw this etsy vendor on my cousins blog last year and haven't forgotten it. It is a canvas art piece customized for us! Each phrase is something significant to us and our time together to date..love it!
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June 29, 2012
Cheers
At my shower, my mohs and bridesmaids gave me a basket of wine (they know me too well). Each bottle is to be opened on a special occasion in mine and Frank's life. With it they read a poem that put this girl in tears. I am going to post it on my blog for two reasons. 1. I have had so many people ask me for a copy because they were just as moved as me and want to read it again and/or steal it for future showers 2. because I lose everything and this way it will be safe and sound through the security of the internet :)
Wedding Night
Together at last as husband and wife
The future begins as you toast on this night
Eight years together, now marrying your mate
So sip this wine and cheers this date
The night is meant for you to share
Enjoy each other a perfect pair
Back from Honeymoon
So you're back from Belize with a suitcase and tan
After a week in paradise with your man
Back to the real world but dont you fret
The celebration doesnt end just yet
Before you unpack pop open this wine
You'll always be his bride, no matter the time
First Fight
When fights occur and tempers get hot
Pour a glass and be thankful for what you've got
Despite spilled milk and sassy remarks
Know you'll always have each others hearts
If you always agreed, it would certainly be a bore
And by asking for Liz's hand, Frank is surely in for more!
First Dinner Party
Open your home to entertain and eat
Catch up with old friends and new ones to meet
Share the love you have with others;
Neighbors, coworkers, sisters, brothers
When the night is over share this bottle of wine
But don't sit down yet - it's clean up time!
1st Christmas Eve Together
A wise man said wine is better than beer
And now is the season for holiday cheer
So pop the cork and raise your glass
Take a sip, sit back and relax
Kiss goodnight when the night is through
And tomorrow Santa will be good to you!
1st New Years Eve Together
When the ball drops, raise your glass
Cheers to the wonderful year that has passed
2012 was the year you became a bride
2013 will only add to the ride
A new year of love, a new bottle of wine
So toast your hubby, for auld lang syne
First Anniversary
Been married a year, where did the time go?
No longer newlyweds, now you are pros
Hope the days found you in good health and good spirit
Keep saying I love you - one always needs to hear it!
Now toast this frist date, it's certainly not the last
And as you build your future dont ever forget the past!
New of First Baby
The news that a baby will soon share your life
Will make you a mother, not only a wife
You'll see it through good times and sometimes through bad
The loving mother and the dearest dad
Sadly, Frank must drink this alone
Before you know it nine months will have flown
Child's Wedding
When the day comes for your child to say "I do"
Remember it's a day for celebrating you, too
Think back to this day when we read you this poem
And toast to all the ways your love has grown
If you have a son and the shower's his bride's
Present her with this basket with wine bottles inside
And should you and Frank have a girl to behold
Shower her with this bottle as her something old.......... (and that is where I lost it)
Seriously, how amazing are they? Blessed and Grateful <3
Wedding Night
Together at last as husband and wife
The future begins as you toast on this night
Eight years together, now marrying your mate
So sip this wine and cheers this date
The night is meant for you to share
Enjoy each other a perfect pair
Back from Honeymoon
So you're back from Belize with a suitcase and tan
After a week in paradise with your man
Back to the real world but dont you fret
The celebration doesnt end just yet
Before you unpack pop open this wine
You'll always be his bride, no matter the time
First Fight
When fights occur and tempers get hot
Pour a glass and be thankful for what you've got
Despite spilled milk and sassy remarks
Know you'll always have each others hearts
If you always agreed, it would certainly be a bore
And by asking for Liz's hand, Frank is surely in for more!
First Dinner Party
Open your home to entertain and eat
Catch up with old friends and new ones to meet
Share the love you have with others;
Neighbors, coworkers, sisters, brothers
When the night is over share this bottle of wine
But don't sit down yet - it's clean up time!
1st Christmas Eve Together
A wise man said wine is better than beer
And now is the season for holiday cheer
So pop the cork and raise your glass
Take a sip, sit back and relax
Kiss goodnight when the night is through
And tomorrow Santa will be good to you!
1st New Years Eve Together
When the ball drops, raise your glass
Cheers to the wonderful year that has passed
2012 was the year you became a bride
2013 will only add to the ride
A new year of love, a new bottle of wine
So toast your hubby, for auld lang syne
First Anniversary
Been married a year, where did the time go?
No longer newlyweds, now you are pros
Hope the days found you in good health and good spirit
Keep saying I love you - one always needs to hear it!
Now toast this frist date, it's certainly not the last
And as you build your future dont ever forget the past!
New of First Baby
The news that a baby will soon share your life
Will make you a mother, not only a wife
You'll see it through good times and sometimes through bad
The loving mother and the dearest dad
Sadly, Frank must drink this alone
Before you know it nine months will have flown
Child's Wedding
When the day comes for your child to say "I do"
Remember it's a day for celebrating you, too
Think back to this day when we read you this poem
And toast to all the ways your love has grown
If you have a son and the shower's his bride's
Present her with this basket with wine bottles inside
And should you and Frank have a girl to behold
Shower her with this bottle as her something old.......... (and that is where I lost it)
Seriously, how amazing are they? Blessed and Grateful <3
June 17, 2012
Bridal Shower
I must apologize for being MIA for so long..I have been a very busy lady. Seriously, I had to start using the google calendar app because I cannot keep my schedule straight.
I had to come back to write about one of the greatest days of my life so far that happened this weekend..my bridal shower! I did get amazing gifts..everyones generosity blew me away. But that wasn't the thing that stood out to me. I have never felt so loved as I did yesterday. It is an amazing feeling to see so many people you love and care for, from different parts of your life, in the same place. I am so blessed to have the friends and family that I do.
It was easy to see the amount of work, time and heart that was put into making yesterday as phenomenal as it was. Every detail was thought out and personalized by the people who know me best. I really do feel like the luckiest girl in the world. I have to give the biggest thank you to a few people. My momma who I love so so much. Thank you for your love and support and making yesterday perfect! My future momma in law who has been an amazing help and support through everything. My powerhouse co-mohs Laura and Gina, you two are ridiculous. You continue to impress and surprise me and I love you both so much. My dream team bridesmaids.. you guys were legit soldiers yesterday! You had your assignments and that was it ..my favorite line of the day was Christie "all I know is I have to do cards and I just wanna make sure I do it right." I really do have the best bridal party a girl could ask for, also the best looking :) Lastly, I have to thank Mr and Mrs Saccaro for opening up their beautiful home to us. There is no better venue I could have imagined, thank you so much!
Here are a few things I have learned since the shower:
1. I need a bigger house
2. I might qualify to be on the show "hoarders" with the way my living room/kitchen looks right now
3. I'm not as good of a cook as I thought since I definitely don't know how to use 50% of the things I got..but I am excited to learn
4. I am becoming an emotional wreck and may burst into tears at any given moment
5. I can't pull off a bow hat, even though it was beautifully made :)
6. Pink lemonade and vodka is always a good idea
7. When I get really happy, I smile with literally every muscle in my face and it is not good wedding day picture material
8. Rent the runway continues to be the best invention ever
9. A&S and Malverne Bakery for every catering event in my future..hands down
10. I don't think it gets any better than this
Blessed and Grateful <3
I had to come back to write about one of the greatest days of my life so far that happened this weekend..my bridal shower! I did get amazing gifts..everyones generosity blew me away. But that wasn't the thing that stood out to me. I have never felt so loved as I did yesterday. It is an amazing feeling to see so many people you love and care for, from different parts of your life, in the same place. I am so blessed to have the friends and family that I do.
It was easy to see the amount of work, time and heart that was put into making yesterday as phenomenal as it was. Every detail was thought out and personalized by the people who know me best. I really do feel like the luckiest girl in the world. I have to give the biggest thank you to a few people. My momma who I love so so much. Thank you for your love and support and making yesterday perfect! My future momma in law who has been an amazing help and support through everything. My powerhouse co-mohs Laura and Gina, you two are ridiculous. You continue to impress and surprise me and I love you both so much. My dream team bridesmaids.. you guys were legit soldiers yesterday! You had your assignments and that was it ..my favorite line of the day was Christie "all I know is I have to do cards and I just wanna make sure I do it right." I really do have the best bridal party a girl could ask for, also the best looking :) Lastly, I have to thank Mr and Mrs Saccaro for opening up their beautiful home to us. There is no better venue I could have imagined, thank you so much!
Here are a few things I have learned since the shower:
1. I need a bigger house
2. I might qualify to be on the show "hoarders" with the way my living room/kitchen looks right now
3. I'm not as good of a cook as I thought since I definitely don't know how to use 50% of the things I got..but I am excited to learn
4. I am becoming an emotional wreck and may burst into tears at any given moment
5. I can't pull off a bow hat, even though it was beautifully made :)
6. Pink lemonade and vodka is always a good idea
7. When I get really happy, I smile with literally every muscle in my face and it is not good wedding day picture material
8. Rent the runway continues to be the best invention ever
9. A&S and Malverne Bakery for every catering event in my future..hands down
10. I don't think it gets any better than this
Blessed and Grateful <3
March 07, 2012
change
I challenge everyone to spring in to action with this..a simple use of the voice you've been given to spread awareness on something so important for humanity. please watch...
KONY 2012 from INVISIBLE CHILDREN on Vimeo.
who are you to say you can stop a war? ...who are you to say you cant
February 24, 2012
Lucky
If you're lucky in life you can say that you have a best friend. Someone who is like a sister to you. Someone who loves you..who is there for you..tells you the truth and always has your best interest at heart. I must be really lucky because not only do I have one friend like this I have two! Laura and Gina are the sisters I never had and always wanted. I feel so blessed to have them in my life. This is why I have TWO maids of honor. Some people are like " you have two maids of honor?" like it's a weird thing. I see it as I am the luckiest girl in the world that I have two people in my life that have all the qualities that a maid of honor should have ..not everyone can say that. I thank God everyday for all of my friends because He has blessed me with some really good ones. Laura and Gina are beyond what I think I deserve in a friend and I am so grateful for them. Take the time today to thank those special women in your life..sisters, best friends..they truly are gifts from God to get us through this crazy, beautiful life <3
February 23, 2012
Here's to Us
One of the reasons I love Glee is it introduces me to new music...I've never heard of the group 'Halestorm' but I have been listening to their song on repeat since it aired on Tuesday nights episode..
February 04, 2012
subway
The subway gets a bad rap sometimes from people who dont live in NYC. Since some of my friends moved into the big apple it has become my only form of transportation. Don't get me wrong, I still need thorough instructions of which trains to take where but I'm slowly starting to get the hang of it and once you know where you're going it really is a piece of cake.
There is a different world underground..and it's not full of rapists and drug dealers like your momma told ya..It's the soul of the city..I never feel more like a New Yorker then when I'm on the subway..next time you're in town ditch the cab and opt for the quicker, cheaper option. You might just see Jane Lynch or find yourself unexpectedly entertained..
I LOVE NY :)
January 28, 2012
In Our Hearts
In case you haven't heard..I'm gettin hitched! I am so happy and feel so blessed to have a man like Frank to be my partner in life. :)
As we are planning our wedding there are a lot of decisions to be made. One that was hard for me was whether or not to get married in a church. We believe in God, and for me personally I pray daily and my spiritual life is important to me even though I am not a church goer. We ultimately decided to have a priest marry us but at the beach. Nothing against church but the beach is special to both of us for a few reasons; we met at the beach, our first kiss was at the beach, first time we said I love you was at the beach and our first apartment together is at the beach. Lastly, I have to say that I feel closer to God at the beach then I do in church...
Have you ever been to the beach in the off season when there is no one around? The sun is setting, there is a cool breeze on your face and an overwhelming sense of peace and calm..I look at the ocean, a pillar of strength and beauty, I breathe in and out listening to the sounds of crashing waves and in that very moment I feel so connected to God. I know He exists because how could something so beautiful and powerful exist if He does not? God has given us so many beautiful things in life and for me the beach is one of them.
As we are planning our wedding there are a lot of decisions to be made. One that was hard for me was whether or not to get married in a church. We believe in God, and for me personally I pray daily and my spiritual life is important to me even though I am not a church goer. We ultimately decided to have a priest marry us but at the beach. Nothing against church but the beach is special to both of us for a few reasons; we met at the beach, our first kiss was at the beach, first time we said I love you was at the beach and our first apartment together is at the beach. Lastly, I have to say that I feel closer to God at the beach then I do in church...
Have you ever been to the beach in the off season when there is no one around? The sun is setting, there is a cool breeze on your face and an overwhelming sense of peace and calm..I look at the ocean, a pillar of strength and beauty, I breathe in and out listening to the sounds of crashing waves and in that very moment I feel so connected to God. I know He exists because how could something so beautiful and powerful exist if He does not? God has given us so many beautiful things in life and for me the beach is one of them.
In the end, it doesn't matter where you say 'I do.' God is in our hearts. Whether you decide to get married in a church, the beach or city hall..God will be there if you invite Him.
150
According to Blogger this is my 150th post..that is a lot of blogging! Who knew I had so much to say? hehe. I am very happy that I decided to start this blog last year. It has been a way for me to document and remember different events and times in my life. It has also served as an outlet for emotions I have felt. I know I don't have the best grammar and punctuation but I can say that I give it my best effort and I have been genuine in my postings. I hope that anyone who may read this has felt my sincerity. It is a vulnerable feeling to put your thoughts and feelings out there on the internet for anyone to read. It has been a fun and therapeutic activity for me and I hope I have a few readers that have enjoyed a posting or two. :)
January 26, 2012
Spoiled
I feel spoiled that I live here and get to witness this all the time. It really never gets old..
January 13, 2012
A Day with Gma
I love my grams.. unfortunately we had to bring her to the hospital recently..she's doing ok! After spending the day in the ER with her I have to share a few one liners with you...
"Mrs Lark..do you wear a hearing aid?" -nurse
"Pardon??" -gma
"I hope you dont mind this is my first time drawing blood.." (jokingly) -nurse
"What am I a pigeon?!?!" -gma
"gma you mean guinea pig?" -me
"O yea, guinea pig" - gma
"I am so happy for you (PS I'm engaged!!)..and you are going to be an O'Rourke! IRISH! I'm Irish you know.. So much better then that Oranati name"-gma
I have to say she keeps me entertained.
January 08, 2012
Resolution
Resolutions are a funny thing because I feel like if its something we wanted or were able to do we would be doing it already. When January 1st comes not much changes except for the year number. We dont magically have more time, more money or change who we are. I think often times we say we are going to make these extreme changes which ultimately sets us up to fail.
We should always be trying to better ourselves and making positive adjustments in our life year round. I don't make new years resolutions anymore because I know I ultimately will feel bad about myself because there will come a time when I break it. Instead this year I decided that I am going to continue on the path that I am on and work at finding the balance and try to do the right thing. Focus on the relationships that matter and let the ones go that dont, eat healthy and enjoy some greasy stuff once in awhile, go to yoga a few days a week and skip it if I want to sit on the couch and catch up on greys anatomy and glee, save money but splurge once in awhile on things that make me happy. You get the idea..
It's obviously important to have goals in life.. just make them doable and don't be hard on yourself if things don't always happen the way you planned. Strive for balance this year..it's the best gift we can give ourselves.
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