" 'Tis the Season to Give"

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Cooperative Living

Cool idea. I considered doing this way back when, but it never happened. It's great they can live together without killing each other.

(click photo)

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Truffle Hunter?

This month's issue of Domino magazine featured an article on truffles - and I'm not talking the chocolate, bon bon variety. This story covered the overpriced fungus that apparently commands top dollar in the finest restaurants. I haven't and will likely never try them since they closely resemble dung (a likeness I absolutely cannot get over). Much like caviar, once I saw it spilling from the body of a gutted fish, I scorned it. That doesn't mean I'm above selling some of the hot fungi though, should I ever stumble upon them - and boy did I ever! In a field just down the street no less. (Of course, they could be of the common poisonous variety too. hmmm)

It's funny because I probably walked past these things before and just thought they were poo. Either that or I was too busy chasing my dog to notice them at all. But on this particular morning, I noticed the round black fungus likely because I'd recently read the Domino article (and because my dog gave chase in that direction). This summer and fall have produced a variety of mushrooms in my neighborhood, some so huge I couldn't help but think of The Smurfs (lol), so I guess I shouldn't be surprised that truffles popped up too. There were only about six or so in this particular patch so I won't get excited just yet, but I will check on my secret truffle garden again.
Then again, it could just be poo.

(Sadly, I don't have a picture because camera + 3 rambunctious dogs + muddy field = trouble.)

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Regarding Life

I was out and about picking up gifts for my expecting friend this weekend when I came across some beautiful cards by Regarding Life (Re:Life). They were so striking that I just had to pick one up and buy it for my collection of lovely things.

I adore the artwork, especially the collage look and photography, but what's also unique about these cards is the heartfelt, plainspoken message found in each one. I've never been a touchy feely, sentimental person who likes to beat around the bush with flowery words, so I always shied away from cards that were too...mushy. At the same time, I'm pretty sure my friends and fam have grown tired of the cards with punchlines. The Re:Life line is perfect for someone like me. My favorites are the And He Said…™ and Stay True™ collections. Real people submit their own messages to be used inside the cards, and I found them to be heartfelt and touching. Simply put, Regarding Life rocks.
Check them out.

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Green Things

Last weekend, I ventured out to D.C.'s Green Festival. I didn't get to purchase as much as I would have liked - thanks to nonexistent, overpriced parking, an entry fee, and overpriced food inside (yes I'm complaining). I mean I know it's best to take public transportation, walk, or bike to these things but A) I don't own a bike and live too far to walk or bike into the city anyway B) the train runs slowly on Sunday and I left too late to catch the train. I make up for it by my lack of a commute every day, so there!

Anyway, despite my gripes, overall, it was a cool experience. I can't stop raving over Big Tree Farms' Vanilla Honey. Eventhough I'm not usually big on honey, after one taste on a whim I spent the next few minutes circling the booth, staring at the jars longingly like Winnie the Pooh. So I bought some. A few fam and friends may get a jar or two for Christmas if they're lucky.

Other big hits with me included Chico Bags, and re-usable bags from Carrot Seed - especially since I'm trying to get into the habit of taking a re-usable bag with me every time I go grocery (or other) shopping. Trust and believe my friends and fam will be very well acquainted with Chico Bags after Christmas. They're like those tiny umbrellas that fit in your purse but they hold so much more than you think. Loves them



*On another note: This is in no way directed toward Green Festival vendors in particular, I just want to remind vendors of the importance of customer service. I won't name any names but, there are always a few people at the various festivals, fairs and craft shows I've patronized lately, who lose my business due to S.A.D. (Stank Attitude Disease). Correct me if I'm wrong, but you are there to make money right? Don't make me put mine back in my wallet. I'm just saying act like you know.*

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And Now Back to Your Regularly Scheduled Program...

*Drool*

Me likey

I want some!

I am a hopeless chocolate fiend.

Good morning.

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Obama U Street Celebration - Pt. 2

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Obama U Street Celebration - Pt. I

I normally wouldn't blog about politics here since I'm generally leery of all politicians, and political discussions tend to get me riled up in an ugly way. And since Magazines & Chocolate is supposed to be my happy place, the two wouldn't usually mix.

That being said, I am excited yet cautiously optimistic about our first Black President of the United States and could not resist the urge to drive into D.C. last night to check out the action. I will upload personal photos of the celebration in DC's U Street Corridor last night later (sadly, I didn't make it to Pennsylvania Avenue where I heard there was an impromptu parade). For now, here are some clips from YouTube that will give you a good idea of the post election love fest that went down on U Street.

Strangers embracing and high-fiving each other
Camaraderie in the middle of traffic
Dancing in the streets

It was absolutely beautiful.
I was dog tired but I'm so glad I went to take part in this momentous occasion. It was like nothing I've experienced before! AWESOME

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I stood in line for 2 hours and 15 minutes (in the rain and cold air) to cast my vote this morning, and all I got was this lousy sticker!
Hopefully, we'll get a new and improved President out of the deal. :o)

This photo was taken with my cell phone so the little "I Voted" sticker isn't really clear. For those of you outside the States, U.S. citizens receive these little souvenirs at the polls after we cast our ballots. It is rather kindergartenish, but whatever.

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Cool Blog

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