New Year's Resolution Pre-Planning

Yes, I'm planning for my plan to increase my skills.  Starting right now by writing this post as writing more is one of those things I want to do and what better time to do it than now?

We are vastly approaching one of the points in the year where we vow to become someone different (some of us do it 2x a year: birthday and new year). How many of you actually achieve it?

Sure, our intrinsic foundation may stay the same but New Year's resolutions always involve a pledge to make ourselves better - but do we ever really consider the process of how to achieve those resolutions before the Jan. 1 deadline?

Rather than setting some goal of losing weight, drinking less or saving more - figure out how you're going to do it and make a plan before Jan. 1 - otherwise, it's just going to be one of those things you said you were going to do but just never got around to it.

Have I really even thought about how I'm going to lose some weight to look good in a dress I ordered from Top Shop?

Have I really even researched how I plan to further my education in some way?

After reading Cracked.com's 6 Harsh Truths To Make You A Better Person by David Wong, there are three things I want to focus on (definitely go read all of it though):

• "Remember, misery is comfortable. It's why so many people prefer it. Happiness takes effort."
  
  Of course it is.  It's so easy to be lazy and be content with being miserable.  The only person we can blame for our misery is ourselves.  Blaming your misery on someone else is just too easy. Want to be better? Do something about it. Figure out what makes you happy then figure out the process of how you're going to get to that end point. If someone says you can't do something, tell them to go fly a kite and prove them wrong.  Legal things, people.

Example: I feel content after cooking something since I feel like it's one thing that I finished and has some end result.

Process: Research a recipe, go to the grocery store and get my rear in the kitchen.

• "I'm going to say let's pledge to do fucking anything -- add any skill, any improvement to your human tool set, and get good enough at it to impress people. Don't ask me what -- hell, pick something at random if you don't know. Take a class in karate, or ballroom dancing, or pottery. Learn to bake. Build a birdhouse. Learn massage. Learn a programming language. Film a porno. Adopt a superhero persona and fight crime. Start a YouTube vlog. Write for Cracked."

Ex: I want to cook better. 

Process: I'm going to take a cooking class at Sur La Table or Central Market or somewhere!

The US government highlights the top New Year's Resolutions that people make. Don't fall into the general population category and be specific with what it is you are going to do.  Pick a general category and then pick a way in which you are going to achieve it or do the opposite - figure out what you want to achieve and if it falls into a category, great!  If it doesn't, great, too!

And, on a final note - here's a resolution we can all practice on social media. Rather than just passively saying something, let's figure out a way we can make the situation better by action, not just words!

Online Compassion Is Meaningless Unless You Do Something

I really loved how he pointed out that that compassion is meaningless unless you do something.

• "Inside, you have great compassion for poor people. Great. Does that result in you doing anything about it? Do you hear about some terrible tragedy in your community and say, "Oh, those poor children. Let them know that they are in my thoughts"? Because fuck you if so -- find out what they need and help provide it. A hundred million people watched that Kony video, virtually all of whom kept those poor African children "in their thoughts." What did the collective power of those good thoughts provide? Jack fucking shit. Children die every day because millions of us tell ourselves that caring is just as good as doing. It's an internal mechanism controlled by the lazy part of your brain to keep you from actually doing work."

Sure, you can post on Facebook that <insert some horrible thing that just happened> is in your thoughts and prayers.  What good does that do them though?  What can you do to make the situation better?  That's what we should be asking ourselves and also providing others with the tools to act upon.

So, let's get to pre-planning our plan.  By breaking it down early on and figuring out the process of achieving your goal, you are well ahead of most people.

Good luck and cheers to a good 2013!

Everybody needs new music all of the time

It's been a million years since I posted but this one I had to - I love new music!

Check out Velveteens and then go buy their demo here: http://velveteens.bandcamp.com/ and tell them to play Sofar Sounds Houston.

Paperless Post and kate spade new york bring some cheer to your inbox

My favourite online stationery service, Paperless Post, and kate spade new york have teamed up to present a colourful array of 75 new cards. Plus, they're doing a fun giveaway...more on that below.

Of course, there is nothing quite like getting a handwritten note of thanks or hello but I've been using Paperless Post since it was in beta to add a little pow to all of these einvites that flood our inboxes. You want to stand out, right?

It's almost like the real thing but faster to get out. Plus, it tracks your RSVPs.  I love the envelope opening aspect most!

I've used them for large parties of a few hundred people to small dinner parties for a close group of friends.  I'm sure any of these would be a nice memento to send to a friend that needs a little cheering up.

Whenever you want a fast and chic way to invite people, think Paperless Post.

Browse the collection and enter-to-win $2,500 gift card from kate spade new york and some other nifty stuff!

10 bands to see in Houston in the next two months...and others I hope to see, too

This blog post goes to 11.

Added: Lower Dens on October 17.

Is it just me or have there been more music gigs than normal coming to Houston? And, good ones. So many that there's no way I can make it to all of them.  Maybe you can help me?

Below are some of the gigs as of today (that I know of...) that need you at them...and me, too.

Beach House play HOB on September 19

This year I've been most pleased with catching Exitmusic (they opened for School of Seven Bells in March at Fitzgerald's), the entire Lower Dens gig with Alan Resnick and No Joy and, most recently, Kishi Bashi. Good, good stuff!

And, don't overlook the opening acts. I found Exitmusic and Other Lives that way...you never know when you might hear something great before it's truly discovered by the rest of the world.

Here are gigs that have caught my attention -- October's a bit crazy, isn't it?? I can't make them all but if you go to one and love it, let me know in the comments! Tell me if you hate it, too. :) I don't think you will...

Click on links below for some song/video previews to whet your earbuds:

September
19 - Beach House (House of Blues)
(why: Baltimore-based BH has been growing in popularity over the years. Their most recent album, Bloom, has been on many "best of" lists already and the year isn't yet quite over. See them at HOB before you have to go see them at Woodlands Pavilion.)
21 - The Walkmen, Milo Greene (Fitzgerald's)

October

10 - Alan Resnick makes an appearance with Dan Deacon's tour -- he's great! I hear Dan Deacon is pretty rad, too. ;)
(why: Alan Resnick had me at the front lines of the Lower Dens concert. From his site: Alan Resnick is a visual artist obsessed with his own face. Since 2009 he has been working towards the creation of a lifelike digital backup. This avatar is being designed to fill the role of Alan to family and friends in the event of his death.' Alan also co-directed the video for Lower Dens' latest single, 'Candy').
11 - Bombay Bicycle Club (Fitzgerald's)
12 - Tennis, Wild Belle (Fitzgerald's)
(why: Tennis is a wife/husband duo and Wild Belle is a sister/brother duo but that's not really why. Tennis' latest album reminds me of the vocals of some of my favourite girl groups of the 60s and Wild Belle's hit 'Keep You' is the soundtrack of all single girls.)
15 - Father John Misty (House of Blues)
17 - Lower Dens (Fitzgerald's)
(why: I think Lower Dens' release of Brains reminded me of what new, good music is out there. Their gig earlier this year was simple and perfectly crafted from two openers to the final encore. Jana also spent some time in Houston and we tend to support our own, especially when they've done good. They will also be touring with Grizzly Bear!)

Exitmusic's wife/husband Aleksa Palladino and Devon Church

23 - Exitmusic (Fitzgerald's)
(why:  A band that I love to hear get loud and engulfed in percussion. I think each band member brings something to their sound...and Aleksa Palladino's voice is really like no other...deep, brooding and powerful.)

November
10 - Other Lives (Fitzgerald's)
(why: I was intro'd to them right before they exploded...at least in the indie scene...I was one month too late to bring them to Songs From A Room and then a few months later, they open for Radiohead. BOOM. Go see them.)
14 - Jens Lekman, Taken by Trees (Fitzgerald's)
(why: He always popped up on my Pandora station and just started to be in my regular rotation...time to see what it's all about.)

Bands I Also Want To See:
September 13 - The Suffers (open for Mingo Fishtrap) (Discovery Green, free)
September 14 - Canned Acoustica feat. B L A C K I E, Craig Kinsey, New York City Queens and others and it benefits Houston Food Bank. Admission is 4 cans of food. Do it! A great sampler of local musicians.
September 16 - Twin Shadow, Niki and the Dove, Bang Bangz (Fitzgerald's)
October 13 - Two Door Cinema Club (House of Blues), Free Press Summerfest 2012 alums
October 20 - Grandfather Child w/ Folk Family Revival (Discovery Green, free)
October 25 - Ghostland Observatory (they actually have 3 nights at Warehouse Live)
October 28 - Crocodiles (Fitzgerald's)
November 1 - Sharon Van Etten (Fitzgerald's)

To Purchase Tickets Visit:
Fitzgerald's
House of Blues
Warehouse Live

p.s. Of COURSE, I love the musical intimacy of Songs From A Room. Videos soon from those gigs of some really fab Houston and Austin musicians. Not on the Songs From A Room list? Go to http://sofarsounds.com.

Veni, vidi, vici: Be In A Music Video

"Veni, vidi, vici."

It may come as no surprise that I love music.  If it does, well I just spoiled that one.

If you know me, you know the love runs pretty deep so when a friend asked me to be in a music video for Austin-based band, Dead Waiter, I jumped on the chance.  I am also a huge fan of interesting and old architecture and the video happened to be filmed in an antebellum home, Ravennaside, in Natchez, Mississippi.

It was shot in Natchez, Mississippi in 2005...which also happened to be the same weekend that Hurricane Katrina hit.

We had just wrapped shooting and had barely any communication with the outside world and I suggested we check what the TV had going on -- little did we know that it would have a devastating impact. We were in the hideous, desperate, standstill traffic with other evacuees and made it to Lake Charles, LA.

I will never forget the director (the amazing Sharad Patel) asking if it would be ok to order a sopapilla for dessert. I glared at him and said we needed to get back to Houston! We're still friends but...come on! That sopapilla didn't even look that good, Sharad!

This music video had even more interesting ties as Dead Waiter was on 99x100 - a record label by my friend and a favourite musician of mine, Roger. Neither of us knew the other was linked to the other, so it was cool to take part in. The video would be shown in a few film festivals.

So happy I had the opportunity and will never forget it. The music is also perfect for this rainy, stormy day in Houston.

"Veni, vidi, vici."*- a collection of things I've done and am glad I did. I try to do and experience as much as possible...as long as it hurts no one and is legal. Even my horrible acting. ;) And, I despise the term, "bucket list."

*"Veni, vidi, vici" (Classical Latin: [ˈweːniː ˈwiːdiː ˈwiːkiː]; Ecclesiastical Latin: [ˈvɛni ˈvidi ˈvitʃi]; "I came, I saw, I conquered.") is a Latin sentence reportedly written by Julius Caesar in 47 BC as a comment on his short war with Pharnaces II of Pontus in the city of Zela (currently known as Zile, in Turkey). Veni, vidi, and vici are first person perfect forms of the three Latin verbs venire, videre, and vincere. From Wikipedia.

Happy Julia Child Week! Celebrating the cooking maven's 100th birthday

August 7 to 15, 2012, has been deemed Julia Child Week for what would have been the doyenne of French-American cuisine's 100th birthday. Her publisher, Alfred A. Knopf, chose 100 restaurants in cities around the nation to officially produce a Child-inspired menu for the celebratory week.  Houston has five of the 10 in Texas and they are:

• Ouisie's Table
• The Bird and the Bear Bistro
• Bistro Provence
• Mockingbird Bistro
• Brasserie Max & Julie

If you can't visit any of those, get inspired via her Facebook page, Twitter or Tumblr.  Archival footage, recipes, pictures and more will be shared and feel free to share your own.

For those desiring a more hands-on approach to celebrating the cuisine Julia Child made famous, check out Sur La Table's Celebrating Julia Child cooking class where the instructor will guide you through some of her most famous recipes.  You can also celebrate on PBS by streaming her classic shows.

Bon Appétit!

Cirque du Soleil's Kooza - A treasure chest under a big white tent

"Oh, dear."

"Oh, my gosh."

"No way!"

"Oh, sh*t"

"That is hot."

Those were probably the most consistent phrases out of my mouth all night as my eyes filled with astonishment and my mouth occasionally gaped wide open with Cirque du Soleil's opening night of Kooza.

Kooza is inspired by the Sanskrit word "koza", which means "box", "chest" or "treasure", and was chosen because one of the underlying concepts of the production is the idea of a "circus in a box".

POP! Out jumps the Trickster like a jack-in-the-box with a leap so high that you just wonder...how in the heck...did that just happen?  It was so clean, crisp and precise.  Much like the entire night; yet, embraced with warmth, laughter and some soul...and some really great audience participation.

Immediately, you are embraced with laughter and amazement.  And, then, confronted by fear, innocence, excitement and more in the form of an androgynous character that resembles the uncertain and unknowing that we all face from time-to-time.  Even the seemingly fearless performers of Cirque du Soleil must feel that way...or do they?  They have the bodies of creatures that appear to have no limits but are still able to show the human side of enjoyment, imperfection, fun and absolute entertainment.  

One thing I also noticed was everyone was fixated on what was going on before them and you saw nary a lit up smartphone either texting or taking pictures. It was such a lovely, non-intrusive few hours that I can't wait to experience again.

The idea of the circus has filled our minds with wonder and awe since childhood.  Some of us still want to run away with it...


Circus entertainment has entertained many generations before. Even in 2012, you still have elements of performances that have carried on over time like clowns, the wheel of death, Vaudevillian theatrics, double high wire, contortionists and balancing acts of all sorts.  There's a reason -- because people enjoy watching it.


It is truly worth your time to go, get out from the typical hum-drum of checking our email and opening file cabinets.  Go see some magic before your eyes, fill your mind with wonder (were there magnets on those chairs? My engineer friend and I pondered. The non-engineer said yes, ha ha) and go feel like a kid again.  I think I need some Cirque once a year! And, some more yoga and exercise.


Cirque du Soleil Kooza
Through September 2nd
Sam Houston Race Track
Twitter: @Cirque
Tickets and more info

Listen: My fave songs of the year, thus far (June 2012)

This is some of the best music that has come out of the first part of 2012.

There is a lot of music out there and PLENTY of reviews on these bands. I've included a few below. Take them as you will. Art is like dating - you go out and try it and if you don't like it, you know more of what you like and what you don't. I don't think someone else telling you whether something is good or not should be the decision-maker.  Luckily, for you, there are a lot of good reviews on all of these.

Go ahead. Put on your headphones and listen.

Lower Dens
Song: Candy
Album: Nootropics
Purchase songs & album here.

First thoughts: Hazy, hypnotic dreams.
Ok, first it was Brains.  Then, it was Propagation.  So maybe I'm a single whore...as in album single...  These happen to be the singles off of their most recent album, Nootropics. There have been some nights and a bottle of wine that have accompanied the entire album. I love the wailing guitar and Jana's use of her voice in Candy.  I just saw them live and was curious to see how the album would translate. Verdict: So good, great energy and the best gig I've been to in a while.  They are on tour in the US and parts of Europe through August -- you should catch them.


Read this, too: NPR: First Listen: Lower Dens 'Nootropics'

Hospitality
Song: Friends of Friends
Album: Hospitality
Purchase here.


First thoughts: Boppity, summ-summ-summertime and yay, friends! Kind of what I thought of L.A. vs. NYC.
This is probably as about as poppy and cute-sy I'm getting in these suggestions.  For some reason, when I first saw the video -- it reminded me of a modern day, NYC version of Clueless and the reality of long distance relationships. They suck and good friends are amazing people to have in your life. NYC is her now, dude.  Nice little message.  Watch the video, too.  They'll be on tour this summer.  Would love to finagle a Houston show...

Beach House
Song: Lazuli
Album: Bloom

First thoughts: chiming and sumptuous
Myth was the first track I heard...and always made me cry when I listened to it.  Teetering between moments of happiness and then seeking someone to "help me to make it," felt close to home. Myth really is a gorgeous song...you need to listen to it, too. Lots of touring for them starting July 1st.

Purity Ring
Song: Obedear
Album: Shrines (out July 24, 2012)

[if the song isn't showing up, listen to it here.]
First thoughts: ethereal and drifting; heavenly and hellish
This takes me back to some of my favourite electropop which also resided in the goth world. Maybe the goths and non-goths can all be friends now since I can see them both liking it :) They arrive courtesy of 4AD which hosted another ethereal, ghostlike fave, Cocteau Twins.

Exitmusic
Song: Passage
Album: Passage

First thoughts: dramatic, dark and strong. Am I going too far when I think of a darker Janis?
I stumbled upon this band as the opener for someone else. The lead singer has an incredibly powerful voice with an equally powerful band to back her up. If you see them live, the percussion makes your whole body reverberate along. It is a song ridden with drama and radiance. "Suggesting Berlin and Bowie, Bedhead and Portishead, Exitmusic's third release continues and catalyzes the pair's stepwise progression..." - Grayson Currin, Pitchfork.

Bear in Heaven
Song: Sinful Nature
Album: I Love You, It's Cool


First thoughts: unleashing inhibition and sex.
I definitely first heard this and thought of a hazy seduction. Then I thought, "Bring it Bear In Heaven." And, Jon Philpot's explanation of the song makes perfect sense to me now:
"'Sinful Nature' is an ode to all the shy girls out there. Don't restrain your inner freak. You could change the world if you just let yourself. It's also an inner dialogue between my responsible and not-responsible self."

Read what NPR had to say, "Bear in Heaven's 'Sinful' Ode to Shy Girls."

Tanlines
Song: All of Me
Album: Mixed Emotions


First thoughts: Damn catchy. Laugh when you need it. Go ahead, it's ok. Someone better play this at a dance party.
Read what NPR had to say, "First Listen: Tanlines, 'Mixed Emotions'.

Free Press Summer Fest: Willie Nelson & Snoop Dogg

Whom am I most excited to see?

Willie Nelson

Snoop Dogg

No online video could do either of them justice. Don't miss it! One should always see Willie when one has the opportunity. I J S.

More bands I plan to check out at Free Press Summer Fest Houston

More Free Press Summer Fest (@fpsf) Previews of What I Want To See

This is by no means comprehensive...the lineup is HUGE!

The Flaming Lips (They will perform Dark Side of the Moon) - @theflaminglips.
Here's an interview with 2995 and Wayne Coyne on their performance this weekend.

Wild Moccasins - Late Night Television - @wildmoccasins 

The Watermarks - Run Away - @thewatermarks 

Love these guys and Songs From A Room Houston alums -- see those videos here.
See the full lineup here.  More tomorrow!

Five things to do before Free Press Summer Fest Houston

Free Press Summer Fest is almost here ... and with the closest thing Houston gets to a music festival, I cannot wait!

Here are a few things I'm doing to get ready:

1. Getting a pedicure.
I'm going fuss-free but pretty. Painted toenails will be the new black and be on view through some flip-flops. Ladies, you will curse yourself if you wear heels. Wedges, ok.

2. Clothes that are OK being burned/trashed afterwards.
Since there's a 0% chance for rain, it's going to be hot, messy and sweaty. With highs in the low 90s and the wind at a paltry 11 mph (and humidity in the millions, probably), there will be pony tails flying and plenty o'skin showing. Think bathing suit and some digs from Forever 21 (or the new H&M at Baybrook will be open on May 31, so you can go there, too!) Would love some Joe Fresh in this piece...just putting that out there.

Not going to rain, y'all.

3. Sunscreen!
With all that skin showing, it needs some love. Slather, rub and repeat...maybe get someone cute to help apply. Be generous. Your 50-year-old self will thank me.

4. Champagne pops and water! And, beer. And, pizza.
Hydration is important...especially, a good balance of champagne, water and beer. Soak it all up with some pizza and you'll be feeling like a champ. Maybe throw a stash of coconut water in your fridge for when you get home. You'll thank me the next day. I will thank myself the next day.

5. Bands, bands, bands!
Last, but not least...the whole reason I am doing all of the above: the music. Thanks to this sweet Spotify starter list that was created...I've started to carve out a list of what I need to see.  Just because you may not see your fave band only means there is new music to explore. So, go do it.

Here are a few to start and in no particular order:

Phantogram - As Far As I Can See - @phantogram

Starfucker - Rawnald Gregory Erickson The Second - @starfucker_usa

Two Door Cinema Club - What You Know - @tdcinemaclub

Ok. Now, make sure you have your FPSF tix and get back to work. More tomorrow.

xohp

Where Texas, Paris + Strings Collide | Songs From A Room Houston | April 30, 2012

Houston and Texas are both known for wide, open spaces but there was very little to be found on a Monday evening in Downtown Houston in Hogg Palace. It was a refreshing night juxtaposing the new with the 91-year-old, Art Deco building. New and familiar faces gathered in a private loft to kick-off another Houston secret gig as part of the global Songs From A Room series.

Shellee Coley - hauntingly, beautiful voice and her 'Conversations with Z' is one all daughters and those with daughters of their own will appreciate. [Like Shellee Coley on Facebook]

Tatsu - a rock-string-septet where you will hear Guns 'N Roses, Mumford & Sons and Queen like never before. [Like them on Facebook]

No Flag Project - so honored to host their first-ever US gig. Extremely lovely band from Paris adding some raw pop-rock to the evening. [Like them on Facebook]

And, yes -- support independent musicians!

It's nights like these that I thank the stars I'm in Texas.

If you want to be as thankful, you need to sign up at at sofarsounds.com to be invited. Songs From A Room happens in 16 cities across 6 continents so if Houston isn't your port of call...they may be in your city already.

Special thanks: Songs From A Room, No Flag Project, Tatsu, Shellee Coley, Ryan Butcher {video}, Melissa Fitzgerald {photography}, Hogg Palace.

Foster the Record Store - A peek into Record Store Day 2012

Before there was hanging out at the coffee shop {or a bar}, there was hanging out at the record store.  At least, for me.

Record Store Day is THIS Saturday, April 21, 2012.  It's a day that celebrates an explosion of specially-released vinyl and special performances with artists and music stores coming together to foster and continue to breathe life into record store culture.

Just like there are all types of music fans, this day is for everyone.  You'll see releases from Bruce Springsteen, Buddy Guy, Arcade Fire, Beach House, ABBA (where did they come from?), David Bowie, Cult, James Brown, Jimmy Fallon/TeBowie...it goes on & on.  Big or small, all of these artists understand the plight of the independent record store and their necessity in our communities.

The record store was a very integral part of my teen years.  I remember going to a local record store every Thursday in my '89 Volvo 740 GL to see what was out there I should be listening to or if they had any new The Cure vinyl and CDs come in the used bin box so I could buy them ALL.  I also made friends with some of the people that worked there and eventually started my short-lived retail career in a record store.

At 16, that was the coolest thing ever!  Plus, I got to inflict my favourite music on an entire store rather than just my parents, sister and friends.

Every trip I went on...especially when in London (I always hit Berwick Street), there was a stop at a record store.  My favourite vinyl covers are from Joy Division.

I always find myself digging back into music at certain points in life.  It's integral, it's transformative, it's a basic need. And, with vinyl -- it becomes another type of art. I love cover art and when you give me a coloured vinyl - I can get giddy.

Here are a few fun items you may want to look into on the 21st.  Yes, it involves actually going to a store near you, interfacing with clerks and not swiftly clicking a download button. Oh, and if you don't have a record player, you need to get one.  Music sounds so great on them!  Aside: I'm not going to lie...the last time I saw a CD for sale...I got really confused.  This was about three weeks ago.


Here are a few releases that strike my fancy - they may not all be at your local record store and possibly limited quantities -- remember, this is a store with inventory, not a giant warehouse:

• Arcade Fire, Sprawl II {RSD Exclusive Release}
• Animal Collective, Transverse Temporal Gyrus
• Beach House, Lazuli B/W Equal Mind - white vinyl and from their album coming out in May 2012...OMG.
• David Bowie, Starman {RSD Exclusive Release} - 7" picture disc + 7" picture disc w/ clear plastic sleeve + numbered
• Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
• Foster the People, Broken Jaw/Ruby {RSD Exclusive Release}
• M83, Mirror, previously unreleased track available
• Sigur Ros, Hvarf Heim, {RSD Exclusive Release}
• St. Vincent, Krokodil, {RSD Exclusive Release}, red vinyl
• The Flaming Lips, The Flaming Lips and Heady Fwends
• Pretty In Pink {pink vinyl!} and The Breakfast Club movie soundtracks 
• Empire Records movie soundtrack - you could have your own Rex Manning Day!
• Mates of State, Crushes (The Covers Mixtape)

Oberhofer {Kanye West cover included}, School of Seven Bells, Starfucker, Wilco {deluxe box set}, the list goes on and on.  Take a peek at more special releases here.

Even if you don't see something you want - do something different and go visit your local record store.  You may find something that brings back good or miserable memories. : )

Here's what's going on in Houston -- wow, we have more stores than I thought.

You can see what's going on near you at recordstoreday.com.  Happy vinyl hunting!  You may want to get your needle checked out, too.

p.s. Let me know what you get in the comments section below...!
p.p.s.  If you love live music in a secret setting, you need to check out Songs From A Room. It's a parlor-style music concert that gives you a taste of up-and-coming bands from all around the world in a living room most likely near you.  The next Houston one is on Monday, April 30.  To be invited, you MUST sign up at sofarsounds.com.

If I was in London tomorrow, I would...

Head to Roger O'Donnell and Adam Donen's performance of Requiem at St. Leonard Church, Shoreditch - Monday, April 2nd at 7:30 p.m.

A bit about this once-only performance:

You can also purchase this poster here,
signed by both artists.

Kaparte Promotions presents:

REQUIEM - ROGER O'DONNELL and ADAM DONEN
with The Contrarian Ensemble

Kaparte Promotions presents:

REQUIEM - ROGER O'DONNELL and ADAM DONEN
with The Contrarian Ensemble

Requiem is one-off performance that will take place at Shoreditch Church on Monday 2 April, hosted by Kaparte Promotions. 

It will feature both Donen and O'Donnell playing as part of a 12-piece ensemble that includes string quartet, French horn and assorted woodwinds.

Keyboard player, producer and composer Roger O'Donnell is best know for his work with The Cure but he has also performed in the Psychedelic Furs, the Thompson Twins and Berlin.

The Requiem is his first foray into classical music after his widely-praised 2011 suite, Quieter Trees, inspired by Hockney's Bigger Trees Near Warter.

Critically celebrated across Europe, Adam Donen's songs have been compared to those of Cohen and Brel, yet his style is all his own. He has garnered much praise for his performances and transcendental music that takes you through terror and heartbreak, and out the other side.

If tickets aren't already sold-out, you can get them here:  http://www.wegottickets.com/event/157459.

Best wishes to you both on a great gig!  Wish I could be there. xohp

A visit to the cabbage patch and other lessons in the kitchen

Attempted this:  Cabbage with Tomatoes, Bulgur and Chickpeas.

This cooking lesson conquers the skill of shredding cabbage.  I'm also adding red wine vinegar to my cabinet and chopping dill.  Never done any of this. V. excited.

The health benefits of cabbage are well-documented here.  Is it the sexiest veg?  No but if you're going for sexy, I would go for red cabbage.  It's pretty when it's steamed.

I tend to focus on recipes that are a) healthy and b) if they say, "keeps for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator," I'm sold.  I also noticed that the entire recipe seems to use ONE skillet and not tons of pots, etc. Yesssssss!  I promise I'm a girl and not a frat boy.  I just like easy...especially being a newbie, strapped for time and not wanting to gain a thousand pounds.  Have to learn the basics, first!

Most of the recipes I do come from the amazingly, talented and healthy Martha R. Shulman's Recipes for Health from The New York Times.

First, the onion.  There is ALWAYS an onion.  Apparently, it brings flavor.  There are times, right before I reach for an onion in the produce section, that I think...could I just use onion powder?  No.  Or, so I am told.

Without fail: every new onion is like I've never met an onion before.  I cannot remember how to dice it so I have to visit my favourite, "How to slice an onion" video.

Ok, done.  And, I have NEVER had tears while slicing an onion.  Only when slicing my finger.  Which just happened.

Moving on!

Cabbage time!

Things like Cabbage Patch Kids continue to pop in my mind.  Not the same thing as a head of cabbage but the memories of them are fond...I digress.

Again, with the video.  I had to watch it a few times and press pause...it went way to fast.  But, in case you don't know how to shred cabbage like yours truly, thank goodness for the internet and the people that post these videos!

Added the tomatoes, red wine vinegar and sug..sugar?  Whatever, in it goes.

Now, I'm supposed to let it sit and simmer for 15 minutes and put a cover on the skillet.

Everything else is added in -- into one skillet, mind you.

<<<time is passing before your eyes>>>

Dill is the last venture into the unknown for this time around.  Sure, I know what dill looks like when it's in a dish but as I gaze at the array of glistening stalks of various vegetables...my eyes become completely unfocused due to being overwhelmed by not knowing what the hell I'm supposed to be looking for.

Another lesson learned:  when you can't find something, ask.  I know some people have issues with asking but to save time (especially when you have no idea what you are looking for) and going around the produce section three times...which I had already done in my search...I asked the helpful produce team member.  He had to go in the back and rustle some up.




This, my friends, is dill! And, I hope some of these pictures are also a sign that it's time for me to upgrade my iPhone.  These pictures look...less than stellar.

And, done!  I don't like to take pictures of food because I can barely take pictures of people.  Just trust me, it turned out great and I have lunch/dinner tackled for a few nights...and it's healthy so that when I do go out, I can eat less cautiously.

Next up -- dessert!  An easy one but whenever I make cookies -- they always turn up soggy.  I'm making Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies for an easy gift for my father on his birthday.  Shhh, don't tell.  Let's hope they aren't soggy!  And, yes, I'll get him a real gift, too.

It's the final countdown: throwing a party? Read this.

I've been consumed lately with a party.  I don't consider myself an event planner but give me about $10k and I can make some things happen.  Actually, I'd like to think even my dinner parties are a great success and I try to keep them under $500...

The non-profit I founded, Houston Young People for the Arts, has their annual fundraiser this Saturday.  The conceptualization process usually starts right before the last one as I start getting antsy needing to know the next theme so I don't get bored.  This year is no different.  I already know the direction for next year...maybe we'll announce it on Saturday night.

This year, the theme is inspired by Bring It On: The Musical which Theatre Under The Stars {TUTS} is bringing to the Hobby Center next week {yeah, we'll be there!}.

Firstly, what is Houston Young People for the Arts {HYPA}?  The purpose is to educate, engage and encourage young art lovers to participate in and support the Houston art scene.

There's more to it but we'll come back to it as I'm taking the concept to other cities.  Austin, TX is first!

What have I learned over the past seven years of throwing a party?  A LOT.  Here are some basic tips for parties costing $50 to $10k:

1. Venue:  Intimacy is key.  Depending on the amount of guests, it's always good to keep your venue snug and comfortable.  You don't want to stifle your guests but anything too big can dwarf the effect of intimacy.  I always try to discourage any disconnects in the venue -- as in hallways that lead to other rooms -- to cause a breakup of people.  I want them all front and center...not dawdling in some space that does nothing to add to the intimate feeling I desire.

2. Lighting.  I leave this to the professionals but it really can be an inexpensive (it can be expensive, too!) option for decor.  If you're on a really tight budget, candles can always add some lovely twinkle.  Faux candles may be your best bet in terms of safety.  Be careful!

3. Flow:  There's nothing worse than having angry guests.  Space your bars, food stations, check-in throughout the venue.  Where do people tend to gather at a house party?  The kitchen.  Same with a big party: near the food & drink.  Don't have them all next to each other or you will create gridlock.

4. Food & Drink:  If the top two aren't working, food & drink always make people happy -- as long as you have the right stuff.  Move beyond those fruit & cheese platters and pile on some comfort food.  Drinks should be plentiful {so should the cups/glassware!} and make sure to have some water/sparkling water/soda for our designated drivers or those not in the mood for alcohol.  Beer: check.  Mixed spirit: check.  Red & white wine: check.  I try to always throw some champagne into my drink menus...it's what I like to drink and keep the host/hostess happy is also key for a good party!

Aside:  Party-goers:  I ALWAYS eat before I go to a party because I tend to not eat at parties; either because I may not need to pile on some of those caloric foods and I tend to talk A LOT to people so...it just works out for all of us. {no food in teeth, no questionable breath, etc.}.  Try not to come starving though -- nice to leave something for everyone.

I was inspired by fire dancers after a
holiday in Playa del Carmen. I had
to have fire dancers at a party, thus
Fire + Ice was created.

5. Entertainment: This can be everything from an iPod playing in the background to a band performing on stage or in my case on Saturday night:  a marching band with cheerleaders.  The DJ should lead the party-goers during breaks in other entertainment and always nice to have something interactive for guests to do, too.  Photo booths are still quite popular.

These are just some basic party guidelines...and it can go much more beyond these top five.  I didn't include decor because sometimes lighting is all you need and sometimes you need more.  Luckily, I've enlisted some crafty people in the past to take my vision in words and create a themed wonderland.  Bless you.

I have thrown fundraising parties for non-profits over the past couple of years and finally delved into my first, private dinner party in December at my home {funny it took me so long but I assume since I throw parties...I like to have some quiet time at home!  No more!}.  Small or big, each party takes some work.  Check out some of the past Houston Young People for the Arts party pics here for some fun visuals.

Alright, I have a party to throw tonight!  Either I'll see you there or you'll see some pictures here.  With that in mind, if it's an important party -- do not skimp on a good photographer.  It will leave you with memories of hopefully a good night! : )

Blast to the past:
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: http://www.chron.com/business/article/MFAH-Starbucks-team-up-to-promote-art-and-a-1870403.php
http://www.houstonpress.com/2005-12-01/news/basquiat-beats-and-beans/

Video:  I think I even see myself behind Grandmaster Flash...ah, such good memories!
-I brought in lighting designer, Nicholas Phillips, and amazing lighting & sound company LD Systems to bring this party up several notches leading to one night with over 7,000 people in the museum.  I will never forget it -- it was awesome.