Parisian

I'd wear a hat like this if I lived in Paris. Photo via Emily Takes Photos. 

I had breakfast with an incredible professor of mine from Northwestern. It was so fun catching up and enjoying crepes and coffee with her. Professor Vaux is about to pack up and head to Paris for three months. She and her husband are renting a flat in the Montmartre area.


We've been working on her book about Eastwood films and theology for over a year now, and I know I'll be missing her while she's on leave. But I'm also so excited just thinking about her sitting in Parisian cafes and working on her next book :)

Photo via Emily Takes Photos. 

Wouldn't it be fun to sit in the cafes of Paris while you work on your manuscript? I can just picture her there, enjoying the afternoon sun, a good book of poetry, a tiny cup of rich espresso, or an art exhibit at the Louvre.


Would you go abroad for a long trip?


I love reading about families who do. Like Gabrielle at Design Mom (she's in France, too), and David and Sarah (they've been traveling in the Middle East). Bonjour!

Photo via Etsy.

High top Sneakers for 2011 | Adidas Footwear

adidas footwear, Originals Highrise Sneakers

How to Get The Latest Take on The Lace Trend

How to Get The Latest Take on The Lace Trend

By Charlotte J Bleasdale

All-over lace was a massive fashion trend in 2010, with the underwear as outwear trend emerging and lashings of black lace appearing on Christmas party dresses. Fashion's love affair with this most feminine of fabrics is not yet over, but as ever, evolves into something fresh and new. Gone is the decadence of winter's gothic heavy black lace, making way for something equally as fabulous, but completely different.

Lingerie looks

Lace is traditionally a key fabric for lingerie, but instead of wearing lingerie pieces such as camisoles and bustiers as outwear, in spring 2011 it's all about feminine dresses and blouses that are embellished with lace the same way that a piece of underwear might be. Bows and floral detailing such as rosettes are key, as are delicate, sheer fabrics that reveal more than a suspicion of skin. Colours are classic and ladylike, from black and cream to powder blue. This style of lace is perfect for the evening, for elegant blouses worn with wide leg trousers or knee-length dresses. Wear with minimal accessories and jewellery to let the lace take centre stage.

Vintage chic

What could be more appropriate for spring than fresh white lace? Tablecloth-inspired lace with large motifs and cut out pieces are being used for feminine summer skirts and dresses, including ruffled styles and babydoll dresses. If you're looking for something a little more sophisticated than cream or tea-stained lace gives more of a vintage or antiqued look. This style fits beautifully with the resurgence of seventies style and is perfect for maxi skirts and maxi dresses. If you can't find what you're looking for in the shops then vintage stores may offer up undiscovered gems.

Primary colour

A brand new take on lace has been dubbed 'poster paint lace'; saturated primary colours used for whole dresses for a really striking look. This trend is not for the faint-hearted but if you want to make a big impact it could be just the thing. From canary yellow to pillar-box red and cobalt blue, it's amazing how different lace can look when it's not your classic black and white. Team a one-colour lace dress with nude or contrasting-colour accessories for an up-to-the minute look that's sure to turn heads. Avoid eighties shapes and stick to an A-line silhouette to keep it chic.

Neon brights

For the fashion-adventurer out there, go really bold with neon lace. Whereas the lingerie or vintage look is ideal for spring, this look is definitely best saved for high summer. It's best complemented with a tan for a tropical look, so why not try it on your holidays? As neon makes such a statement, keep the shape simple and the length lady-like to keep it classy and high-fashion.

This helpful article was written and distributed by Charlotte Bleasedale for Simply Be - plus size clothing and fashion without limits.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charlotte_J_Bleasdale


http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Get-The-Latest-Take-on-The-Lace-Trend&id=5895931

Image source: google

Names to Faces

We're yogis. We blog about it.

Introducing some fiery friends. Check em out!

More information (bios and backgrounds) coming soon. 

Stay tuned.

Simplify

Photo via Lululemon. This is one of their talented ambassadors, Meghan.

Hey yogis! How was your weekend? I hope you are back at work feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. I am!


I had a lovely weekend with a nice mix of productivity and relaxation. I've got some other creative projects in the works besides the blog, so I decided to a take a couple days off to put some energy toward those. Plus there is nothing like a Sunday at home doing some cooking for the week and having a little candlelit dinner with friends. (I made quiche! Mmmm.) 


The Hubs and I also had a little adventure at the local laundromat, plus a delicious sushi lunch across the street at Evanston's Seafood Ranch. We highly recommend it! You can buy fresh sushi and soups, or shop in their little two-aisle Asian grocery. They carry green tea icecream (my fave!), any sauce you can imagine for Asian cuisine, plus sashimi-grade fish for making your own sushi. I'll be back very soon to try that.


Anyway, I hope you had fun and maybe took a little time for yourself this weekend, too. It can be so worth it to have a break -- whether it's from work, or just your computer screen at home. Sometimes a few days off from the Hot Room can do wonders for your practice, too.


Sometime's it's just better to simplify. Do a little less. You may find yourself appreciating that task you chose to take out of your busy schedule, even yoga.


I know I am excited to get back to my mat tonight!


I'm also stoked to spend this week immersed in all of the Yogi Sponsorship 2011 applications. Thanks to all of you who have sent in your apps. We have some very strong candidates!


To those of you who have the app but haven't returned it yet, please do so soon. The deadline is coming up. I'm happy to give you a bit of extra time if you need it, but be sure to communicate before the deadline rather than later.


The choice will be tough. I can't wait to post the news! Stay tuned.

Photo via Lululemon. This is one of their talented ambassadors, Meghan.

Focus Forward Friday: Get Sponsored to Do Yoga

Photo via Coffee and Yoga.

Focus Forward Friday: 
A weekly ritual for deepening your practice.

Today's focus: the blog sponsorship. Did you read my recent post on how you can get free classes, sweet yoga wear, green products, and a whole bunch of awesome custom yoga advice and motivation from yours truly?

If you missed out, here are the details again.

Who: any yogi, male or female, any age, any location, who practices any style of yoga (not just Bikram!).

When: apps due by the end of January (I can extend the deadline by a few days if you need a bit of extra time). Winners will be announced in early February.

Sponsorship may also induce happiness, relaxation and mind-body connection. 

Photos via Coffee and Yoga.

What: if you are chosen, you'll get a bunch of sweet perks. Free yoga classes (details to be determined). Lots of loot (yoga wear, cool products, treats from me and other blog partners). Excellent advice from an advanced Bikram student who's practiced a variety of styles and who's passionate about sharing yoga with others (and teaching one day!). Ongoing communication. The chance to write for the blog, promote it to your yoga community, and watch it grow. And much, much more! 

How: email me at aliveinthefire at gmail dot com for an application. Then I'll send you the form to fill out with more info on your background, your yoga practice, and what you plan to bring to the blog space and community if you are chosen. Note: you'll want to be sure to read the fine print and sign digitally before you send back. Photos welcome, too! I like being able to put names to faces, and if you've got a shot of yourself doing your favorite posture, that's perfect.


A quick note: only dedicated yogis need apply. I plan to choose someone as my go-to person for discussing yoga-related topics and creative ideas for the blog. I expect to find someone who's creative, fun, laid-back, punctual, hardworking, and kind. I want someone with extreme enthusiasm for their yoga, for the blog, and for making positive changes in their life. If you're not ready to make the commitment, please don't ask for an application.


Along the same lines: please feel free to use your creativity here! You'll need to fill out the application, but if you are so inclined to add to it, share the blog with your friends, increase the followers and invite people to check out the Twitter, by all means -- go for it! Going above and beyond won't hurt your chances :)


Are you ready to take your yoga practice to the next level? 


Contact me today. (aliveinthefire at gmail dot com)

This is not the end; there is no end in yoga. Photo via Coffee and Yoga.

Winter Yoga, Wing Night & The Greatest Feeling

A crowded class reminds you to find your private practice. Photo via Coffee and Yoga.

Class was super crowded last night at the studio. Lots of beginners around. Looks like a lot of New Year's resolutions have been set!


The mats were lined up in neat rows, lots of yogis packed into the room. All the commotion and bustle really pumped me up. I warmed up with big smiles, and energy coursing through me. I love a good crowded class.

Breathe together, move together. That's the yoga. Photo via Lululemon's Flickr photostream.

What's funny is I arrived there with my good friend Lindsay, who's a Bikram teacher and massage therapist at the studio, and we both entered the Hot Room separately to set up our mats. Little did I know, I had plopped my stuff down right next to hers!

The close quarters made for an inspiring class. Linds is a super yogi and having her next to me during the postures gave me the motivation to push a little harder, focus a little stronger, and let go of the crazy energy from the beginners in the room.

That's Lindsay at her Teacher Training in Acapulco. She is an incredible yogi!

Being close to other yogis in the room also brought my thoughts to Teacher Training. I seriously can't wait to be there!


On some days it feels like I've got a lot of preparing to do before I go. I want to have at least the first four  postures down before Training, plus I could really use a challenge or two before I kill myself for 90 minutes... twice a day, for three months! Ha.


On other days, though, I feel ready to pack up a little suitcase and get my ass to the Big Tent right away. I've got my wardrobe of tiny shorts and sports bras, my set of yoga mats, my Bengal tiger strength and English Bulldog determination. I've got my open mind and willingness to let go. I'm ready, right?


And especially after crowded classes like last night's, I just can't help but imagine the energy in the room with Bikram up front and a bunch of advanced, eager trainees lining the floor from wall to wall. It has to be electric!

Standing Bow next to Standing Bow. Gotta love a crowded class! Photo via Lululemon's Flickr photostream.

Regardless of when I get to Training, I am very grateful to know that it is a goal I will turn to reality. It's not a "new year's resolution." It's a life goal. It will happen... "eventually or in the future." (And for those who are curious, it's looking like Fall 2011 is going to be my time, but nothing is set yet. I will keep you posted for sure!)


After class was super fun, too. The Hubs, the Professional Best Man, and I have a tradition of enjoying all-you-can-eat wings at Merle's Barbecue in Evanston on Wednesday nights. I mean, how can you pass up high-quality wings at only $4.50?! Plus, they have just about the tastiest lemonade around town.

Delicious wings and great company made for a lovely Wednesday wing night!

It was super busy at Merle's last night, so we sort of made an evening of it. I was so happy and content as we sat munching chips and guac and discussing our favorite types of dogs and where we want to live when we grow up.


In both the hot room and at the restaurant, I felt surrounded by love and friends. A sense of community inspires me. There seemed to be a living pulse in the air. It really energized me!


I can't wait to get back to class -- both at Bikram Yoga Evanston and other studios in the area. One of my goals this year is to expand my practice into new forms. I am hoping to buy a few DVDs for at-home practice (to meet my budget), as well as review some local studios on the blog (and hopefully score a few free classes here and there). There are plenty of cheap or free community classes as well!


The greatest feeling of all is to be surrounded by your fellow yogis as you work through class.


The surrender, the energy, the love in the room: it's overwhelming and wonderful. All at once. All together. All you need: your yoga!

Winter Extravaganza: Tuesday Giveaway!

Ready for a space that makes you feel at peace? Photo via The Spinning Plate.

Transform your space with today's giveaway! (a follow up to this post)


Choose a print of your choice from Etsy seller Violintide.

 

Violintide Design features artsy superhero prints. I love the zany and wild style!

Spruce up your fridge with some Om magnets from OmMama.

OmMama's magnets remind you to keep calm and carry on. 

Check out her meditation cushions, too!

Enjoy a packet of handmade incense from Etsy's Naturcraft featuring the scents of geranium, frankincense, myrrh, and other authentic herbs. (Just so you know, I have been enjoying some by my desk -- near where Nora's cage is-- and the stuff works wonders!)

To win the print, magnets, and incense, please leave a comment below with one of your goals for the new year and which print you'd choose from Violintide. Also be sure to visit all three shops for Violintide, OmMama and Naturcraft.

Finally, the winner for the Mika item from the Get to Yoga giveaway is Kirsten. 


Update: The Grateful Yoga post is closed. Congrats to Emily, our winner!

Ready for the Impossible?

 

Photo via Pennyweight.

I have a feeling 2011 is going to be an incredible year. Are you ready for it?

I'm ready for quiet moments, full skies and elaborate dreams. I plan to do plenty of yoga, healthy cooking, and reading for fun.

And I want healthy relationships -- with my Hubs, my friends, and myself -- to be at the top of the list.

Photo via Andrew + Carissa.

Photo via Atlantic Tree Fox.

Now is one of those times of year I feel pretty reflective. I find myself reminiscing about my favorite memories -- which means reliving the Big Day over and over. Anyone else wish they could enjoy their wedding day all over again just because it was so wonderful?

Before we left California, I was also helping my mom pack up a few boxes and get rid of some of my old stuff. I spent a few hours going through old papers -- birthday cards, love notes from my lunchboxes as a kid, letters from penpals, journal entries, high school essays. I found myself feeling strangely sentimental, and sad to leave my family. The cards from both of my late grandmothers almost brought a tear, and more so they have inspired new poetry.

Photo via A Desert Fete. 

Photo via Oh Happy Day!

Getting back to our wonderful little apartment has also inspired me. Hubs and I endured a particularly long and ridiculous journey home (delays at the airport, delays for our bags, delays for the cab) so we were pretty happy once we made it to our bed last night.

We spent the whole day today cleaning, organizing, and getting rid of old stuff. The perfect New Year's purge!

It felt great to free up some space and tidy up. We still have a bit to do -- and I have big plans for my own new planning schemes to keep things easy to find! 

Photo via David and Sarah.

Photo via Stephen Beadles Photography.

At the start of January, it's easy to look forward and think how lovely and open the new year is. It's just as easy to look back at the year behind us and get overwhelmed by how much we had to do to survive it.

Are you busy looking forward, or looking back?

At this very moment, I am equally at peace with my goals for the new year and my accomplishments from the past year. I feel prepared to do better, to grow, to let go. I'm as ready for the impossible as I can be.

Photo by Jose Villa.

A final quick note: I'll be featuring a new series here on Alive in the Fire very soon! It's called:

Beyond Childhood (How to Love Your Kiddos Better) 

Get excited; you're going to be seeing a lot of adorable baby pictures, parenting advice, thoughts for expectant moms-to-be, reviews of green products, and ways to make family your top priority in 2011! I hope you'll follow along and consider contributing your comments and ideas.

If you know of a mom who might want to share her story, please have her email me here: aliveinthefire at gmail dot com.

I'd also love to hear from you with ideas about:

• Family-focused companies
• Eco-friendly and green products for babies
• How to put family first
• Raising kids with love, hope and spirit
• Eating well for you and your family

Thanks and namaste!

Heading Home

The rice fields near my mom's house are a little soggy.

It's been a lovely week out here in California. The Hubs and I are heading home to snowy Chicago!

We're excited to start our new year together -- our first full year as a married couple! We can't wait to clean up our apartment, cuddle with the bunbun, get a regular workout routine going, and of course spend time together and with our friends.

We enjoyed a lovely French breakfast with my mom. Delicious and oh-so-fancy!

I have a feeling 2011 is going to be an incredible year. I am still hoping to do Bikram Yoga Teacher Training in the fall (permitting I can land a scholarship and work out the schedule with work)... but even if it doesn't happen this year, I've got big plans for my yoga practice. 


I've got a lot to work on with my backbends, my endurance during the standing balancing series, and my flexibility during the spine strengthening series. I also want to perfect the art of the headstand and handstand within the year.


I'm also excited to continue practicing the dialogue (and getting serious about memorizing it!) and possibly teaching more small yoga classes to friends in the area so I can gain experience.


What are your yoga goals for this year? Hope you'll join me on the road ahead, and keep in touch about the great places you're planning to go!

Farewell, California! We'll miss you.

Happy 2011!

Onwards and upwards! Photo illustration by Christopher David Ryan.

Ready for a glamorous celebration to ring in the new year?


I hope you're wearing glittery things, eating tiny fancy hors d'oeuvres, and smooching your love as the ball drops.


I will be!

Crab bruschetta? Yes please! Photo via This is Glamorous.

Gold heels? Yes please! Photo via This is Glamorous.

As you consider the year ahead, you may be setting some goals for yourself. Need fun and creative ways to view them daily and remind yourself to stick with your resolutions?

Lovely lace? Yes please!  Photo via This is Glamorous.

Creative Goal Setting:

• Chalkboard goals. Keep them visible and add to your home's decor by writing your dreams and ambitions largely.
• Goals on Twitter, Facebook and the blog. Share your ideas with your followers, and ask that they help hold you accountable.
• For the wild at heart: tattoo goals! Ever thought about getting inked in a way that's artful and reminiscent of your life goals? A friend of mine recently got a beautiful phoenix on her hip to symbolize rebirth and renewal. That's a pretty sweet way to remind yourself of your own beauty and power!
• Framed goals on your desk at work. You spend as much time there as at home, so why not post some as conversation starters / reminders? Consider getting your friends and office pals to do the same, or put together a collective goal frame or area where people can share and encourage each other to stick with their plans for success.
• Keep a notebook. Doodle your goals. Make thought bubbles and connect your ideas together. Add action steps. Be creative and have fun! Then post the pages to your fridge so you can see them regularly.
• Use online tools to track your progress. Try FutureMe and email yourself in the future. This is probably the most fun and amusing way you can kick yourself in the bum to get going and get inspired to meet your goals! Also try Goaltender via Lululemon's site, or 43Things.
• Goals as passwords. This one's pretty nerdy, but if you set your passwords for email, online banking, or other websites to reflect your goals, you'll be reminded of them on a consistent basis -- probably more often than any other way!

Bursts of gold? Yes please! Photo via This is Glamorous.

How do you set goals? What are your hopes and dreams for 2011?

Modern Cup Designs

Modern mugs and creative mug designs from all over the world,availble on 2011....