Shannon Ables's Blog, page 252
July 3, 2017
162: From Seeking Happiness to Cultivating Contentment: A Shift in Pursuit
~Subscribe to The Simple Sophisticate: iTunes | Stitcher | iHeartRadio
“Focusing on happiness as our ultimate goal is self-defeating; being in a constant state of happiness is, simply put, impossible.”—Paul Hudson
Place the word happiness on the cover of a self-help book and it will sell more times than it won’t (Amazon has over 40,000 book titles with the word). The concept of happiness has a mass following as once we’ve experienced the feeling of our happy neurochemicals surging through our mind and being, we want more. And who wouldn’t? However, as Paul Hudson reminds, “Happiness is not a natural state; it’s an elevated state.”
Since happiness is not a natural state that we are born at (however, we can attain it, just as we can attain sadness, but we are not born sad), the question to determine is at what state are we born?
A couple of years ago I shared Dr. E.P. Seligman’s equation of what happiness consists of.
Set range based on your biological parents
Circumstances of your life (money, relationships, health, religion)
Voluntary factors under your control (how you deal with the past, think about the future, etc)
The Equation: H (happiness) = S + C + V
Based on the realization that we individually have a set range as the foundation (accounting for 1/3 of our happiness potential), it is the other circumstances and voluntary actions that can heighten or depress the level of happiness we may attain.
You may be looking at this equation and thinking, “Well, I absolutely can be happy all the time if two of the primary components are in my control.” Are they though? Entirely, your circumstances and the voluntary factors are not in your control; however, how you respond to them, how you manage them, how you navigate the events, people and setbacks is in your control.
Therefore it is how you navigate, it is the place from which you approach your circumstances, change them as you can and how you change them, that will either heighten the chances of moments of happiness or decrease.
When we look closely at the term happiness, the root “hap”, it is of Old English origin that came to be used in the 12th century. Its definition was “one’s luck or lot” and “an occurrence, happening, or accident”. I understand that words evolve, change and shift according, quite simply, to their use and context. After all, when Thomas Jefferson and his crew in the late 18th century added “the pursuit of happiness” as an inalienable right for all Americans, the word’s meaning shifted significantly. It became about seeking pleasure and avoiding pain. It became about me, not others, society, and community. Gone was the understanding that “Aristotle believed that happiness was the by-product of a life of virtue”.
“Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.”– Helen Keller
It is important to point out that simply having the time and ability to think about what makes one happy and then cultivate a life more attractive to moments of happiness is a sign of significant prosperity. And since you are reading this post, that in and of itself is something to celebrate, but now the important part is to shift how you go about experiencing happiness.
“There’s a certain tendency in our culture to want to graft some kind of happiness onto an existing structure,” Hanson said. “If you just fill in the blank — get this car, find the right shade of lipstick, go on vacation in Mexico, lose those five pounds — suddenly you’ll be happier and have the fulfillment you want in life … Let’s be clear: The main happiness industry in America is the advertising industry.” —cognitive psychologist Rick Hanson, author of Hardwiring Happiness,
Do not fall into the trap psychologist Rick Hanson points out above. Do not let the outside world, the marketing world tell you what it takes to attain happiness. Rather take a look at the list below and discover how to make the shift in our daily lives from seeking happiness to cultivating a life of contentment:
1.Shift your perspective on challenging situations
2. Understand that fear of the unknown is a good sign
3. Not being happy doesn’t mean you are sad
The expectation of constant happiness gets in the way of learning how to feel and exist with these other emotions that are not all the opposite of happy. We can be curious, interested, ambivalent, neutral, focused, challenged, and I am just barely scratching the surface. Take a look here at a lengthy list of different emotions. What our job needs to be is properly identifying what we are feeling, and while sometimes we may be able to explain why, we don’t actually have to know the root all of the time. Simply knowing what we are feeling and letting ourselves feel that particular emotions is a very healthy skill which leads me to . . .
4. Build a life of wholeness
“We’re kind of teaching our kids that happiness is the default position — it’s rubbish. Wholeness is what we ought to be striving for and part of that is sadness, disappointment, frustration, failure; all of those things which make us who we are. Happiness and victory and fulfillment are nice little things that also happen to us, but they don’t teach us much … I’d like just for a year to have a moratorium on the word “happiness” and to replace it with the word “wholeness.” Ask yourself “Is this contributing to my wholeness?” and if you’re having a bad day, it is.” —Australian social researcher Hugh Mackay
A life of wholeness, as pointed out above will involve from time to time sadness. To feel sadness is to have known love, joy, tranquility and yes, happiness. It is how you navigate through these daily occurrences. And when you know how to navigate, much like driving a car or navigating the subway or airline travel, you empower yourself to arrive successfully at your destination.
5. Choose to handle negative situations in a productive way
Which builds your resilience and persistence, thus building your opportunity to experience happiness when opportunities come along that require you to be resilient and persistent in attaining them.
6. Practice patience: Let go of the need for fast fixes
Being mindful asks us to be present which requires us to have the ability to be the captain of our mind.
8. Improve self-awareness
Our natural state needs to be content rather than happy. Once we realize and practice building and living a life of contentment, we broaden the opportunity for happiness to be experienced. I have written extensively about contentment here on the blog (have a look at the posts below)
~15 Everyday Habits to Live a Life of Contentment
~11 Life Truths About Contentment That Seem Impossible Until We Experience Them
~10 Things People Who Have Found Contentment Understand About Uncertainty
~One Small Adjustment Away from Contentment
“Happiness is essentially an end result of some action we’ve taken,” marriage counselors Ben and Janelle Novell
So much of our discontent is a misunderstanding of what constitutes happiness. Once we put it into its rightful place, which is a glorious experience to behold, we can appreciate it all the more as well as not be so disheartened when it doesn’t last indefinitely. The good news is, it will return so long as we cultivate a life of contentment. And that is something we can do each and everyday.
Petit Plaisir:
~Gruyère Tomato Tart, click here for the recipe
~View more episodes from The Simple Sophisticate here.
~Listen to the most downloaded episode in a single day (#161 – Ask Shannon) here.
July 2, 2017
A French-Inspired Culinary Comfort Cafe: Coquine
“Sincere Cuisine, Humbly Ambitious”
The name, Coquine, French for a mischievous little girl, and the woman behind the name turned her curiosities into an award-winning neighborhood restaurant that is a dream for your tastebuds.
Described as new American fare, the menu is inspired significantly by Katy Millard’s time in France, cooking under the well-known chef Guy Savoy at one of his satellite restaurants. Having spent five years working in the kitchens of Paris, she returned and with her husband, Ksandek Podbielski, opened Coquine on a quiet, cozy corner in the Mount Tabor neighborhood on the east side of Portland in 2015.
It didn’t take long for the food community to taste, appreciate and crown their talents as they were awarded Portland’s Restaurant of the Year in 2016 and then became a nominee for a James Beard award for best chef in 2017.
The truth about my discovery however was not based on their success, as I hadn’t a clue at the point when I woke up last Thursday morning after having arrived in Portland the day before for an Afternoon Live appearance, but rather simply seeking a restaurant which served delicious, seasonal cuisine for breakfast.
Coquine caught my attention for exactly those reasons, a regularly changing menu to incorporate locally harvested produce and an appreciation for simple French-inspired dishes. I was decided, and with its location in a beautiful part of town with minimal traffic, I was even more intrigued.
I wanted comfort, and their soft herb scrambled eggs with crescendo cheese paired with bacon and toasted levain bread (seen above) offered a taste of home with an element of sophisticated flavor and decadence. I wanted something to nibble and savor to begin my day, and their strawberry and black sesame scone paired with Totem Tea’s Ginseng Oolong tea gently welcomed the next 24 hours.
I look forward to an opportunity to make reservation for dinner as the menu teased my tastebuds merely at the descriptions, and if you have the chance to visit Portland, be sure to put Coquine on your places to dine.
~View TSLL’s City Guide for more handpicked destinations to visit here.
Coquine
phone: 503-384-2483
6839 SE Belmont Street
Portland, OR 97215
Hours
Breakfast 8am to 11am
Lunch 11am to 2:30pm
Dinner
Wed-Sun 5pm to 10pm
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A French-Inspired Culinary Cafe: Coquine
“Sincere Cuisine, Humbly Ambitious”
The name, Coquine, French for a mischievous little girl, and the woman behind the name turned her curiosities into an award-winning neighborhood restaurant that is a dream for your tastebuds.
Described as new American fare, the menu is inspired significantly by Katy Millard’s time in France, cooking under the well-known chef Guy Savoy at one of his satellite restaurants. Having spent five years working in the kitchens of Paris, she returned and with her husband, Ksandek Podbielski, opened Coquine on a quiet, cozy corner in the Mount Tabor neighborhood on the east side of Portland in 2015.
It didn’t take long for the food community to taste, appreciate and crown their talents as they were awarded Portland’s Restaurant of the Year in 2016 and then became a nominee for a James Beard award for best chef in 2017.
The truth about my discovery however was not based on their success, as I hadn’t a clue at the point when I woke up last Thursday morning after having arrived in Portland the day before for an Afternoon Live appearance, but rather simply seeking a restaurant which served delicious, seasonal cuisine for breakfast.
Coquine caught my attention for exactly those reasons, a regularly changing menu to incorporate locally harvested produce and an appreciation for simple French-inspired dishes. I was decided, and with its location in a beautiful part of town with minimal traffic, I was even more intrigued.
I wanted comfort, and their soft herb scrambled eggs with crescendo cheese paired with bacon and toasted levain bread (seen above) offered a taste of home with an element of sophisticated flavor and decadence. I wanted something to nibble and savor to begin my day, and their strawberry and black sesame scone paired with Totem Tea’s Ginseng Oolong tea gently welcomed the next 24 hours.
I look forward to an opportunity to make reservation for dinner as the menu teased my tastebuds merely at the descriptions, and if you have the chance to visit Portland, be sure to put Coquine on your places to dine.
~View TSLL’s City Guide for more handpicked destinations to visit here.
Coquine
phone: 503-384-2483
6839 SE Belmont Street
Portland, OR 97215
Hours
Breakfast 8am to 11am
Lunch 11am to 2:30pm
Dinner
Wed-Sun 5pm to 10pm
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July 1, 2017
Tomato Gruyère Tart
Fresh, ripe, juicy tomatoes are about to flood the markets here in Oregon, and I have a simple, delicious recipe you will want to try which will bring those much anticipated flavors to the surface: a tomato and Gruyère tart. Inspired by Ina Garten’s recent recipe, I have tailored it for a smaller serving portion and added an extra touch of flavor with Maille’s Chardonnay white wine and white truffle mustard.
Last weekend I enjoyed making it out on my back porch under the sun, only stepping inside to use my food processor and oven. The crust is flaky, and melts in your mouth (you can also use a puff pastry picked up at your local market) and the layer of buttery cheese elevates the entire tart to decadence. Without the need for pretense with fancy tart pans, this rustic tart allows the flavors to work their magic without the fuss. Using fresh herbs from the garden, pour yourself a glass of wine, mix up a simple green salad with vinaigrette and enjoy.
Tomato Gruyère Tart
Servings4 servings (large)
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time55 minutes
Ingredients
The Crust
1 1/4 cup
all-purpose flour
kosher salt
6tablespoons
chilled unsalted butterdiced in 1/2 inch cubes
1egg yolk (extra large)
cold
1/4cup
ice water
The Filling
4-5medium
tomatoescored and sliced 1/4 inches thick
1/2cup
whole, fresh flat parsley leaves
1/4cup
fresh basil leavescoarsely chopped
1-2cloves
garlic
1teaspoon
fresh thyme leaves
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4cups
good olive oil
3tablespoons
Dijon mustard
1/2cup
Gruyere cheesegrated
1/4cup
Parmigiano Reggianofreshly grated
Instructions
Place the flour, salt and butter into a food processor and pulse until in small pea-size.
With the motor running, add the egg yolk and then add the water until the dough begins to combine. Place the dough onto a cutting board and roll into a ball, then flatten into a round disc shape. Wrap in plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper in preparation for the crust.
While the dough is chilling, slice the tomatoes and place in a medium size bowl.
Make the dressing for the tomatoes: combine the parsley, basil, garlic, thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper in a food processor until minced. While the motor is running, pour the olive oil into the mixture until combined. Pour the mixture over the tomatoes.
Gently toss the tomatoes with the dressing and then set aside.
On a well-floured board, roll the dough out to an 10 x 10-inch square and transfer it to the prepared sheet pan.
Trim the rolled out dough so that it resembles a square, but don't be afraid to leave it looking rustic.
Place a second sheet pan on top of the rolled out dough and place in the oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove the second pan, poke the dough with a fork and return to the oven for 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven when golden brown. Let cool for 15 minutes.
Reduce the oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Brush the Dijon mustard on the crust.
Leave about 1/2 - 1 inch of an edge without Dijon mustard.
Sprinkle half of the Gruyere on top of the Dijon mustard. Then sprinkle the Parmesan (reserve 2 tablespoons) on top of the Gruyere.
Place the tomatoes in overlapping rows on top of the cheese.
Spoon any extra dressing on top of the tomatoes. Sprinkle the remaining Gruyere and Parmesan on top of the tomatoes.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Cool slightly, cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Serve with a small green salad and glass of crisp white wine or rosé.
~View more TSLL recipes here.
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June 30, 2017
This & That: June 30, 2017
Books
—Hardwiring Happiness: The New Brain Science of Contentment, Calm & Happiness by Rick Hanson
Whether we want to believe it or not, it is true: our brains are hard-wired to be pessimistic. Why? Survival. However, acclaimed clinical psychologist Rick Hanson offers ways to override this default setting. Mastering one’s mind takes work, and the key is first to understand how it works. This book will help do just that.
Decor
—Nate & Jeremiah by Design on TLC
I am a little late on this new series on TLC, as it debuted in April, but it is certainly worth watching if either one of these gentleman inspire you. You may remember Jeremiah from The Rachel Zoe Show, and I have feeling you already know quite well who decorator Nate Berkus is. A couple of years ago, the two were married, welcomed a baby girl into their lives, Poppy, and along with glimpses into their family life in each episode, they also bring their expertise to the table to help homeowners. Have a look at the trailer below.
Film
—If You’re Not in the Obit, Eat Breakfast
A couple of weeks ago on CBS Sunday Morning, Carl Reiner flanked by two of his good friends, all in their nineties talked about their upcoming documentary on HBO: If You’re Not in the Obit, Eat Breakfast. A funny, inspiring film, Reiner tracks down many of his friends in their 90s and beyond and reminds us age doesn’t mean downhill. Have a look at the trailer below.
Shopping
— Réalisation teale purple haze silk midi dress
Earlier this week, in the Style Inspiration post, I shared a few links to summer dress sites full of beautiful silk, cotton and linen options. Well, one especially caught my eye. The particular hue of blue, the v-neck and hitting below the knees, the teal purple haze silk midi dress is a dress that will add a sensual, feminine touch to the hot summer months. While there are other dresses to look at, start with this one and be inspired.
—Vanessa Seward aube belted wool blend coat (on sale)
I know we are in the middle of summer, but when a designer such as Vanessa Seward’s items go on sale, and are available in many sizes, it is important to pounce. If indeed you are looking for a wool-blend mid-length coat, take a look at this one. The French designer’s clothing is classic and top quality. You will not be disappointed if this is what you have been looking for.
Television
—Prime Suspect: Tennison
Perhaps you remember Helen Mirren in the series Prime Suspect. Well, the prequel to the highly successful original series, Prime Suspect: Tennison, follows Jane in her early years on the police force. The first episode aired on PBS this past Sunday on Masterpiece Mystery, and after watching it, I am certainly drawn to the actress who plays Tennison, Stefanie Martini’s style in mannerism, passion for her job and strength during a time (the 70s) when women were seen as inferior to their male counterparts even if they held the same position. Tune in Sunday nights at 10pm on PBS.
~recipe for Strawberry & Pistachio Tart~
The week zipped by, and as I type, I am still savoring and reflecting on quite the lovely time in Portland. As I shared in this post, being a guest on Afternoon Live was my impetus for heading to the Rose City, but there were also a handful of other sites, places and people to see as well. The right balance of work and play, sunshine and cool nights, and a reminder of so much beauty in the everyday.
Below I’ve found more than a few articles I think you might enjoy. As July begins tomorrow, I hope your June was exquisite, memorable and a lovely start to the summer. Thank you for taking the time to stop by and have a lovely weekend. Until Monday, bonne journée.
~A wonderful beauty task to add to your daily routine
~Did you know Sarah Jessica Parker is the head of her own imprint of a publishing label? Yep. A sincere lover of books, she has just chosen her first acquisition.
~Daily rituals to enjoy in your everyday is what elevates the 24 hours from ordinary to extraordinary. Discover 22 you may want to add to your daily routine here
~Let go of these toxic habits to welcome more confidence and success into your life
~Speaking of success, here are six weird quirks highly successful partake in
~And always, reducing stress is a good goal to have. Discover 25 ways to de-stress.
~Cannot wait for my issue to arrive. Keeping raising the bar Serena and thank you for the inspiration.
~When it comes to love and two hectic schedules, these ideas are worth incorporating into your life
~8 pieces inspired by a French woman’s summer wardrobe
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June 29, 2017
TSLL on Afternoon Live: Talking Wine, Cheese & Money
Every once in a while an opportunity comes along to share with a new audience what living simply luxuriously is all about, and over the past nine months, Portland’s KATU-TV’s Afternoon Live has invited me on their program to share bits and snapshots of the life I love living and share here on TSLL blog and podcast every week.
This past Wednesday, I made my way to Portland (take a look at a few pics on IG here of a few places I explored – more to come later as I found a lovely French restaurant that is a must visit!) to be a guest on two different segments during their Wednesday show. From talking about mastering your money to building your own cheese platter, being on set with Tra’Renee Chambers is quite fun which makes it easier to quiet any nervousness that inevitably arises when you remember you are about to go on live television.
As I took Instagram followers behind the scenes in the IG Stories, many people also have asked about preparation: hair, makeup, the food prep for the second segment, etc. , and the entire experience each time has offered a wealth of lessons in the best possible ways. For instance, I am, as are all of the hosts and anchors on KATU, entirely responsible for my hair, make up and wardrobe. As well, setting up my station was my responsibility, and while I learn from each mistake I have made, little or not, the crew on set makes it easy to just talk about what I love.
Thank you to everyone who sent and posted comments in support. Getting in front of the camera isn’t something I necessarily prefer, writing and staying behind the screen is my forté, but if I have a chance to share what I wholeheartedly believe in, I will put my nerves aside if only for a few minutes. 
Summer Sophisticate
~Joanna August Scarlette Jumpsuit (many, many colors to choose from), peruse more Joanna August dresses, ready to ship~
~A Note about Joanna August garments: specializing in the bridal industry, each item is customized and takes approximately 15 weeks to complete. However, their Scarlette jumpsuit caught my eye, and I know many of you are fond of jumpsuits as well, but they don’t fit properly. This company could solve that issue and offer you the color of your preference (the list of optional colors is vast).
~Madewell Boardwalk Ankle Wrap Sandal (black available)~
~Nashelle hand-textured necklace~
~The Provence Cookbook by Patricia Wells
~SHOP THE OUTFIT:
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~View more OUTFITS OF THE WEEK here
A Chic & Simple Parisian Vacation Apartment
Paris. Chevron floors seem to de rigueur when it comes to Parisian apartments, and Haven in Paris‘ luxury vacation rental in the 16th arrondissement is right in tune. The Victor Hugo Chic apartment, as it is named, is quintessential Paris: French windows, black iron railings, a petit outdoor balcony to enjoy your breakfast or a glass of wine while gazing at the city at night and chic, simple white and neutral decor.
The apartment rents between $700-$900 a night, but one can certainly dream, non? Enjoy the tour and learn more about Victor Hugo Chic here.
~View more Parisian Apartments to tour and to rent below:
~A Paris Rental to Dream About
~A Luxurious Travel Sanctuary (learn more about Haven in Paris)
June 28, 2017
Bend, Oregon’s Farmers Markets: How to Make the Most of Your Visit No Matter Where You Live
“Go to the farmers market and buy food there. You’ll get something that’s delicious. It’s discouraging that this seems like such an elitist thing. It’s not. It’s just that we have to pay the real cost of food. People have to understand that cheap food has been subsidized. We have to realize that it’s important to pay farmers up front, because they are taking care of the land.” —Alice Waters
Having fresh food at your fingertips in the very town you call home is to feel truly wealthy. Why? To eat well, to have an abundance of choices and to step outside, savoring Mother Nature as you peruse the selection, the entire experience is an elevation in living well.
Today I will be spotlighting three of my favorite local produce destinations in Bend, but regardless of where you call home and where your farmers market is located, I’ll be sharing 10 ways to best navigate and utilize what the farmers market has to offer.
While Bend’s growing season is quite short (June – September to be conservative) compared to other places I’ve lived, the farmers that bring their harvest to sell come from all over the state. Vendors from the Willamette Valley join the many farmers right here in central Oregon giving shoppers a wonderful bounty to choose from as you will see below.
Before I dive into the three markets I frequent for my fresh food shopping, let’s talk about the benefits of visiting the farmers market as well as a few tips to best navigate all the goodness in your own backyard:
1.Meet the farmers
“The way you support farmers is by shopping and buying raw ingredients.” —Michael Pollan
Most individuals who are selling the food at the market are the ones who have cared for the food, and they will be able to answer your questions. As well, you are supporting local farmers, members of the community you call home. Much like shopping locally at boutiques, etc., you support local families so they can continue to thrive in the town they as well call home.
2. Get ideas about how to cook the produce you purchase
Recently, as you will see below, I picked up some fava beans. These gorgeous, ginormous green pods grabbed my attention, but I honestly did not know how to cook them. However, I must confess, I had just seen Paris Can Wait, in which Diane Lane’s character enjoys bruschetta topped with fava beans. Consequently, I was quite curious to figure out how to make such an appetizer. So I asked the farmer. He gave me some delicious ideas, as well as instructions on how to properly cook the fava beans (blanche in the pod for a couple of minutes, pop out the fava beans after submerging in cold water, peel off the hard outer shell and voila!). He also suggested pairing the fava beans with capers and a little bit of olive oil, smashing them all together and smearing the mixture on top of the bruschetta. I took his word, and he was absolutely right. Delicious!
3. Eat fresh, organic food
Perhaps you call yourself a locavore. Perhaps you just appreciate delicious food. Either way, both predilections will be satiated when you stop by your local farmers market. Your body will thank you and your tastebuds will thank you.
4. Expand your eating repertoire
“I make an enormous amount of salads, but my salads are like meals. They’re amazing. I like going down to the farmers’ market and looking to see whatever you can find, because you can put anything in a salad.” —Andie MacDowell
Farmers markets sell what is in season. An abundant amount of artichokes are available because spring is wrapping up. Soon the tomatoes will be available, but not yet (at least not here in Bend). What I appreciate about visiting the markets is that I am gently forced to try new vegetables and fruits. For example, the garlic spears below were something I have never cooked with, but again, I asked the farmer what he would do with them, and he gave me some simple ideas. He also informed me that they are only available for a few weeks due to their short growing season, which gives all the more reason to give them a try.
5. Improve your prowess in the kitchen
Similar to #4, with the encouragement of the ideas from the farmers, I have had new experiences in the kitchen, expanding the types of recipes I make and broadening my skills and knowledge in the kitchen with new ingredients.
6. Discipline is strengthened
While most vendors accept debit/credit cards, I challenge myself to only and always take cash. I usually walk the full length of the market to compare prices before walking back and making my selections. And if I happen to have a few extra dollars left over as I finish my second walk through, I pick up something that looks delicious but I didn’t have on my list as a treat. Such a lovely reward for adhering to my objective of sticking to my cash budget!
7. Get to know your community
“Let us not forget that the cultivation of the earth is the most important labor of man. When tillage begins, other arts will follow. The farmers, therefore, are the founders of civilization.” —Daniel Webster
Similar to #1, when you visit your local farmers market, while there will be tourists visiting, there will also be many of your fellow locals. Seeing each other in a convivial setting, enjoying and appreciating the food and the weather is a wonderful chance to bond over something we all can applaud – good and healthy food!
8. Pick up fresh, seasonal flowers often difficult to find in flower shops
I can remember when I lived in Pendleton, I would stalk the farmers market in May and June waiting for the peonies to arrive as I knew they would only be available for a few short weeks, and I didn’t want to miss my opportunity that came only once a year. Thankfully here in Bend, while the growing season is short for peonies, they are usually available to purchase for about a month. But the truth is, it’s an annual arrival that is brief and evanescent which makes it all the more something to celebrate when you welcome them into your home,
As well, just as you become introduced to new food, you also discover new varietals of flowers which was the case for me this year. As you will see below, a brilliant violet/purple flower caught my eye two weeks in a row. And while I didn’t know what it was, I knew I loved it. Well, thanks to TSLL readers, I snapped a pic and asked if anyone knew what it was called (I guess I could have asked the vendor as well, but they were swamped with other flower lovers), and the name is just as beautiful as the flower itself: des campanules en français or campanulas (bellflowers).
9. The fresh air
Leaving the air conditioned super markets, leaving the fluorescent lighting and breathing in the fresh air is a memorable experience. Wear your linen market dress, don your sunnies or maybe a wide-brimmed summer hat and just take everything in: the food, the people, the music, the moment.
10. The opportunity to bring out that beautiful French basket you have had tucked away for far too long
I am only partially kidding. I cannot tell you how excited I get to take my round woven basket with a leather handle off the top shelf in my hall closet. Its mere presence is a sign that a shift of seasons has occurred, and it is these mini celebrations and rituals that are important to savor. The everyday moments, the simple, but meaningful events and activities we enjoy that don’t happen each and every day. Why not visit your local farmers market and have a beautiful experience?
Have a look below at the three local produce markets in Bend.
Bend Farmers Market
Brooks Alley in Downtown Bend, on the edge of Drake Park and Wall St.
Wednesday afternoon/evening, 3-7 pm
Opens first Wednesday in June and runs through mid October
Mountain View High School
Friday afternoon/evening, 2 – 6 pm
Opens the last Fridays in June and runs until mid August as school begins soon.(This year: June 30th – August 18th)
~baby artichokes~
~The best baguette I have had in Bend: a crusty, crunchy crust and soft and chewy bread inside. Pick it up at Jackson’s Corner‘s booth at the market~
Northwest Crossing Farmers Market
Saturday morning/afternoon, 10 am – 2 pm
Opens the third Saturday in June and runs through late September depending up on the weather/harvest
~peonies (left); campanules en français or campanules (bellflowers) (right)~
Paradise Produce Farm Stand (Local Produce Stand)
1234 NW Galeveston St.
7 days a week (sell their produce at the local farmers’ markets as well)
Opens late May and runs through early October
~garlic spears on the right~
~last week’s budget called for farm fresh eggs, a rosemary plant for the herb garden, broccoli, baby artichokes, fava beans, sweat peas (the smell is intoxicating!), lemon pepper pasta and a fresh baguette~
~View more Bend, Sweet Bend posts, profiling my favorite places in my hometown here.
June 27, 2017
Provence Inspired: Feminine Summer Apparel
Over the past six months I have been devotedly following Jamie Beck of Ann Street Studios on Instagram. Why? Have a look and I have a strong feeling you will understand. Living temporarily in Provence, her IG Stories are a journey each day into the daily life that truly is even more majestic than described: the markets, the lavender in June, the beautiful, flowing, feminine attire . . . ah! What a lovely way to spend one’s days.
And it is the clothing of choice, midi length dresses, linen pants and simple, but classic tops and espadrilles that have me smitten at the moment. After pulling together the images for today’s Style Inspiration, I discovered a couple of online shopping destinations for just such clothing, and I think you will want to take a look if you too are wanting to spruce up your summer capsule and wishing to add a little more femininity. Réalisation, Reformation and Posse are the three featured in today’s post, and the different lengths, prints and colors are fun to peruse. If you have a favorite destination for shopping for such items, I would love to hear as I am planning far in advance for my summer excursion in 2018 and the south of France may be on my itinerary ;).
~Remember, be sure to click on any of the images to be redirected to the original source. Most are shoppable.
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