a.d.d. is a +
When I was younger all my report cards said that I never performed up to my full potential and that I talked to much. (But hey, I think I am pretty entertaining and it didn't help when the teachers laughed at my jokes.) I felt that I was smart enough to complete the work but I couldn't focus long enough to do so. There were certain subjects that no matter how hard I tried I couldn't retain any of the information, even if I could stay awake long enough to pay attention. I always had straight A's at the beginning of each semester, no matter how difficult the class, just because the subject was new and interesting. By the eighth week of school I would lose focus and my grades would spiral downward. I felt so stupid and was told (and believed) that I was lazy. (A really great selection of bonus thoughts to build on during the awkward teen years.) I can remember the most random and unnecessary facts but general, useful data - don't count on it. Now that I am older and have perfected the art of list making I don't feel stupid or lazy, however, that doesn't stop people from talking to me like I am an idiot/airhead from time to time. I can see some of the traits and frustrations that I have becoming more apparent in my children. I don't yet feel a need to medicate or have them checked out. A lot of dealing with "it" is knowing that you don't have to be the same as everyone else (no matter what the standardized tests results are), setting up structure for yourself and controlling yourself when you can. These strategies work but there is a point when no matter the effort, you end up getting in your own way. I have felt like my best isn't good enough and although I know what I must do to be successful, it just doesn't happen. It doesn't help when I get the "You know how you are...., If you could just....., Why can't you......, Didn't you just hear/say that....., etc." I know it is hard for people to understand why seemingly simple things can't be remembered. At times it takes a tremendous amount of effort to try to conform and fit in the box that I need to stay in. I get it, I really get it, I need to be able to complete things and perform in a certain way to function in the world. (I am a master list maker, which has been the most helpful thing for me.)
I have mostly (come to terms with) with the positive and negative aspects of "this". I don't think I use "it" as an excuse or a crutch, but as a explanation for why I am the way I am and what I should keep an eye on.
A life coach who specializes in adults with A.D.D., Pete Quily, wrote this list of 151 advantages that can be attributed to A.D.D. (Some of the descriptions might be a little far reaching and I suspect the coach might have A.D.D., as well.) My attention span is so short that I wasn't able to completely read the whole list.
Ability to find alternate paths to overcome obstacles-Able to take on large situations-Adaptive/collaborative-Adventurous, courageous, lives outside of boundaries-Always finding alternate routes to any given location-Always willing to help others-Ambitious – you want to be everything when “you grow up”-Artistic-Attractive personality – magnetic due to high energy-Being able to see the big picture-Being able to see the patterns in the chaos.-Being intuitive towards others’ difficulties-Broad focus – can see more, notice things more-Can create order from chaos-Can do many projects at once-Can make people feel they are heard-Can see the big picture-Can talk about several things at one time-Can think on my feet-Career variety-Centre of attention-Comfortable talking in front of groups-Comfortable with change and chaos-Compassion for others and for themselves-Conceptualizes well-Confidence-Constantly evolving-Courageous-Creates connections easily-Creative-Creative writing-Creative – musical, artistic, “dramatic”-Good in a crisis -Good at customer relations-Dedicated-Detail-oriented-Determined to gain more control-Eager to make friends-Eager to try new things-Empathetic, sensitive-Energetic-Entrepreneurial-Excellent organizers using journals and reminders (notes etc.)-Flexible – changes as the situation requires-Fun guy to be around-Goal-oriented-Good at conceptualizing-Good at motivating self and others-Good at multitasking-Good at problem solving-Good at public speaking-Good at understanding others/mind reading – empathetic-Good conversationalist-Good delegator and good at organizing others-Good in emergency situations-Good listener-Good looking and aware of it-Good people skills-Good self esteem, energetic-Great brain-stormer-Great multitasker-Great self-company-Great sense of humour-Great storyteller-Great with kids (central figure around kids)-Hands-on workers-Hard worker-Has friendly relations with their family-Has the gift of gab-Helpful-Helps others who are also in trouble-High energy – go, go, go-Humour, very healthy, quick picking up ideas-Hyper focus !!-Hypersensitive – very empathetic and good at non-verbal communications-Idea generator-Imaginative-Impulsive (in a good way) not afraid to act-Initiators-Intelligent-Intuitive-It’s ok to not finish everything-Less sleep is good (midnight to 6 am)-Like to talk a lot-Likes learning new things-Look at multidimensional sides to a situation-Lots of interests-Loves to cook and be creative-Magnetic-Master idea generator-Mentoring others/helpful-Mentoring people with low self esteem-Modesty-Move on fast – never hold a grudge-Multitasks well-Never bored and rarely boring-Never intimidated to try new things-Non-linear, multi-dimensional/edge of chaos-Not afraid to speak mind-Not contained by boundaries.-On stage and ready-Optimistic-Outgoing-Passionate-Persistent-Philosophical-Holistic thinking-Playful-Pragmatic-Problem solver-Profound-Quick thinking-Quick witted-Relates to people easily-Resistant-Resourceful-Saves money in the short term by forgetting to file tax returns-See and remember details – recount them later-Sees the big picture-Socially adaptive and flexible.-Spontaneous-Stabilizer during difficult situations-Stable-Successful-Takes initiative-Tenacious-Theoretical-Think outside the box-Thinks 2 meters ahead of the world-Thinks big, dreams big-Thorough-Tolerant-Unconventional-Unlimited energy-Unorthodox-Versatile-Very creative, able to generate a lot of ideas-Very hard working to compensate – workaholic-Very intuitive-Very resourceful-Very successful-Visionary-Visual learner-Willing to explore-Willing to take risks-Willingness to help others-Witty-Won’t tolerate boredom-Works well under pressure-Worldly
i am (not) an entertainer
Have you ever noticed that everyone who remodels their house on HGTV describes themself as an "entertainer". These "entertainers" spend mounds of money on remodeling their homes so they can invite people over and "entertain" them (all the while spending more money). I decided long ago that everyone can't be an entertainer, it is mathematically impossible. In order to keep the universe in order, I have decided to be one of the "entertained". I am a delightful guest and will always offer to bring a scrumptious dish. (I completely understand the responsibility that comes with my position.) This lifestyle choice is carried through at work and the design of my work space. I am pretty chatty and can get a conversation going that I can't wrap up when I need to. I start to think about the work that I need to do but I don't want to be rude to my work friends and cut them off. Then the A.D.D. kicks in and I can't listen to what is being said and I can't fully concentrate on planning what work I should do. I am sure I look like a skittish squirrel when all this is going on. I have a couple of self imposed regulations that somewhat help with controlling my social based distractions. First, my office space is the size of a postage stamp and if I was surrounded by barbed wire, it would also be in violation of the Geneva Convention. Don't get me wrong, I love my little bento box office. I have the best view, out of my entire office, from the window that is right next to my desk. My desk is also hidden around a corner, so (in theory) nobody can sneak up behind me and see confidential information on my computer or desk top. I also don't have a real seating area for guests, even the floor space is limited and uncomfortable. With that said, people still stop by and aren't so slick with their nosy behavior.
These retractable bands make a friendly, clear boundary and are under $20. There are about eight different designs, with varying messages that can be chosen from, but they also offer customizable bands. "Thanks for Stopping By - Try Again Later" "Shh.....Make a Quick U-Turn and It Will Be Like This Never Happened" and "Cross This Line and It Will Hurt You More Than It Will Hurt Me" are all possibilities. They might be a smidge harsh and I might just have to stick with the smiley zipper faced "Don't Disturb" band. (I can also use a combination of sayings, the band cartridges are interchangeable.)
winter in middle earth
I went to a business meeting last year where one of the assistants wore the best California winter outfit. It is a CA winter outfit because it was simple in design, looked really comfortable to wear and could be pulled together in the dark - but was well put together. The description sounds like I am describing flannel pajamas, but when working really long hours the closer I can get to wearing clothes that are as comfortable as pajamas, the better. My only hang up in wearing this outfit is that, unlike the assistant, I am more of a hobbit than an elf. Normally, I am ok with life on the shire but being a fluffy hobbit does have its fashion limitations. The elf assistant's sweater had a shawl collar and was double breasted; a no-no for a Busty Baggins. I think the sweater is a better option. The boots are super cute and will either amplify my hip and height challenges or look really cute. The cute potential of this outfit may lie more with my choice of jeans, this is certainly a wtj outfit.
she has such a nice face
The two new Fall make up trends that I really like are featured in both Carolina Herrera's Fall 2009 Ready to Weat and Chanel's Resort 2010 runway shows.
Wintour Wunderkind
I am not big on going to the movies (for all the previously listed reasons) and have taken to waiting for dvd releases to keep up to date. There are a few movies that I really want to see and would in theory be willing to go to a theater to see, although they will probably be Netflix'd.
"Julie & Julia" has been out for a bit and at this point I will probably wait until it can be viewed on my bedroom tv. Blogging and food, my interest is obvious.
A must see is "The September Issue" which covers all that must happen at American Vogue for the traditionally largest issue of the year, let alone, in Vogue history. It's the real life "Devil Wears Prada", just to see some of the conversations between Anna Wintour, Andre Leon Talley and Grace Coddington has to be entertaining and enlightning all at once. (Note: Andre Leon Talley plays tennis with a Louis Vitton towl, cooler and racket sleeve. That alone is well worth the price of admission.)
Adult Movies
I don't really like the idea of going to the movies as a date. You are basically sitting quietly for two hours with your companion, then go home. Why not just stay home and wait for Netflix? The environment would certainly be more comfortable and if I cooked, the food would be yummilicious. My husband has a different point of view, he loves going to the movies and thinks they are great for dates. Our differing points of view and taste in movies keep us from going to the movies together.
The Archlight is a place that I have been, but haven't fully appreciated all that they have to offer. The Hollywood location has the Cinerama Dome, which opened in 1963 and was one of the few theaters in the world capable of exhibiting 3-projector cinerama format film. It has a circular auditorium featuring a huge screen and seats for almost 1,000. That alone makes the movie going experience different than the norm.
There are also "21+ Screenings" that only allow those over the age of 21 to attend and have the option to drink beer and wine. That isn't as much of a draw for me as their cafe's menu selections are. Of course they serve popcorn, but how about with real butter or their own freshly made caramel corn? Or hummus, gourmet cheese & fruit plate, a variety of salads, sandwiches and pastas, fish & chips and the list goes on (and includes creme brulee and carrot cake).
One more drawing point (for me) is there are weekly screenings of films that are listed on AFI's 100 Years...100 Movies list. "His Girl Friday", "Suddenly Last Summer", "To Catch A Thief" & " Tootsie" are all on the current screening schedule. (At both the Hollywood and Sherman Oaks locations)
If I can't go to the ocean, then the ocean must come to me.
Just in case I wake up and don't feel like going anywhere the lobster can come to me. I can order all of this for the bargain price $159 (for two people) from MaineLobsterDirect.com:
1 Lobster per person (Avg. weight 1.35 lbs.)
8 oz. of Clam Chowder or Lobster Bisque each
1 lb. Clams, Mussels or 1/4 lb. Shrimp Cocktail each
3 Maine Red Potatoes or 1 Ear of Fresh Corn each
4 oz. Jewell Island Cheesecake each & Lemon, Butter, Sea Salt
1 Set Shell Cracker/Seafood forks for every 2 people
Bibs, Wetnaps, Gift Message, Cooking Directory
All Packed in a Blue Enamel Lobster Pot with Seaweed
The convenience of eating this while in my pjs and the possibility of an afternoon nap - priceless.(note: husband hint)
red as a lobster
Today was the start of the AYSO season and my son started off with two games today. The first game was at 8:00 but we were at the park by 7:30 to help set up the field. (These are all a.m. hours- Do you feel my sleepy grumpiness?) The worst thing about early games is obvious, they are early. The last thing I want to do is wake up early on a weekend. The second game was at noon, did I mention that we live in the desert outside of Los Angeles, we are closer to the sun than my skin would like. I was prepared for the heat and the sun. I had my beach umbrella and sunscreen on, but it is September and "the winds" have begun. My umbrella was flipped inside out and ripped it from its wire skeleton. So I sat, basking or baking in the sun for the next hour. By the time I got home I had a very oddly shaped sunburn below my neck. I am a yellow and red sight to behold.
I figure the place to go tomorrow might be The Long Beach Lobster Festival. The tickets are $15 for adults and children under 12 are free. There are a wide variety of jazz and blues performances scheduled, as well as, lobster cooked by a Bristol Farms chef. (Yum!) There are other food vendors so I won't be forced to buy my children lobster dinners that they won't eat. More lobster and butter for me....(Hopefully, I won't be confused with the lobsters. A turtleneck might not be such a bad idea.)
prairie pier companion
1. prairie drop waist dress (perfect to relax, eat & drink in)
2. wedge heels (they have all the height of regular heels without the incline - or stumbling)
3. flat sandals (just in case walking in heels becomes too painful and I start to hobble)
california dreamin'
I am a simple person with simple pleasures, as you know, food, sleep and fun are at the top of my essential pleasures list. I also have an odd list of things to do before I die, it includes shearing a sheep (it's so cool how the wool comes off in strips) and surfing, among other things. (Surfing looks like so much fun I could work past my dislike of the beach.)
Next weekend, Santa Monica's Chamber of Commerce is hosting "A Taste of Santa Monica"; a $65 ticket includes unlimited food (from a wide variety of restaurants) and drinks (wine and water included) and live music, all on the Santa Monica Pier.
One of the event sponsors is the "Le Merigot Hotel" whose beds look more than adequate for a great nap. Currently they have "The Surfing Safari" package which includes "Superior Room" accommodations, a full session Swedish massage (that sounds painful - I think I will be generous and offer this to my husband) and (the best part) a two hour surfing lesson. (AWESOME!)
Surfing - check! Fun Time - check!
sit & spin
I have a friend who is my exercise hero, if only I could live through him and receive all the health benefits as a result of his effort. If only. But I can't. It isn't that I haven't ever exercised before. I just don't like it. It makes me hot and I hate to sweat. In any other situation if I started to sweat, have an increase in my heart rate and became overheated I would be taken to the hospital, but I digress. So a couple of weeks ago I started going to spin class after work with my exercise hero/friend. As far as exercise goes, spinning is the closest that I will ever come to liking anything intensely active.The women that attend the classes have really great bodies and vary greatly in age. They are slender but don't have that gaunt, hungry antelope look that yoga girls have. They are toned but aren't bulky or overly "cut". The classes are around an hour long and although challenging I can usually distract myself from most of the discomfort, power through the class and feel good afterward.
The place that we go to is "The Burn" in Burbank. They have about 18 bikes at each class (reservations can be made online), the bikes are set on 3 different levels (think amphitheater), they keep
the room dark (which somehow makes it seem cooler) and have very entertaining and motivated instructors. The other thing that I like about "The Burn" is if I sit on a bike in the back row (right in front of the black curtains) and wear an all black outfit I can't see myself in the mirror at the front of the class. I am just a floating head. Awesome. If I couldn't be the "Nearly Invisible Woman" I would compare myself to all the spinning sprites on the other bikes for the whole class. I have also discovered that a spin class cannot be complete without a music selection from Justin Timberlake or Madonna. (I think this is a rule for all group cardio classes everywhere.) The only thing that I wasn't expecting and that was different from my previous spin experience is that from time to time they turn on red lights while we spin, which makes me feel like a rotisserie chicken at Costco. But, all in all a great time. (I missed all last week but it is my goal to go twice a week. It is even a never-ending, recurring event on my computer calendar program. If only life wouldn't get in the way.)A few spinning benefits:
Burn 500 + calories per class
Tones Muscles
Body Shaping
Lose Inches
Decrease Body Fat
Stress Relief
Year Round Activity
Increase Energy
Improve Overall Strength
Increase Cardio Endurance
1. cycling shirt
2. cycloskort (helps to cover the "cookies", in every sense of the word)
3. cycling shoe
downward facing dork
So a couple of weeks ago (at work) my friend's neck started to hurt. Since I am the WebMD and a Know-It-All I decided that my vast yoga experience (from a few yoga classes taken at my local 24 Hour Fitness) needed to be drawn upon and I should show her a few poses. I got up and we had a two person yoga class going in my office. Little did I know (or think) that people would walk past the open door and the sight of me with my butt in the air would cause anyone to stop and stare. Well, they did. Even better I was wearing a pair of spanx (that peeked out between my shirt and waistband)to make it even more of a spectacle. Then an audience member asked in a very loud voice that echoed down the hallway, "What are you wearing? A leotard?". Next time I will forward a link to this website and perform the pose "quietly sitting dork" at my desk.www.yogasite.com
"Leave the gun. Take the cannoli."
I am all there for The Godfather; the costumes, the acting, they even talk about cooking marinara sauce, everything about it is beautifully done. (I could really go without all the violence. I know it is the wrong movie for that request.) The Godfather men are a little more mature, cool (in the chill sort of way) and relaxed. (This isn't to say that I am any of these things.) Obviously, my research has been very limited and I have only confirmed my finding with my most reliable colleague. Me.
I know it isn't appropriate but I started thinking about "The Godfather" when I was reviewing the menu at Mozza. Everything looks so delicious and Mario Batali is all the way authentic Italian with his cooking. Not that I have ever tasted it but as you know a fluffy chef is a chef that I can trust, because they enjoy food. When Mario talks about food or his cooking you can see the joy in his eyes. I think it is only right that I help make him happy and eat some of his delicious creations.
Here are a few menu items:
Burrata with bacon, marinated escarole & caramelized shallots
Linguine with clams, pancetta & spicy Fresno chiles
Ricotta Gnudi with chantrelles
Crisp Duck al Mattone with pear mostarda & Brussels sprouts
Pan Roasted Halibut con pepe verde
charm school drop out
I am not in a bad mood, more melancholy and reflective. I am not grumpy or mad, just simmering. When I feel like this my mood definitely gets reflected in what I wear or want to wear. Lots of black is usually what I reach for. Usually with sharp, high heeled shoes.
This outfit would have to be purchased for a melancholy mood after I win the lottery. (Or after both of my children have completed school) D&G, Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen are not part of my budget or sold at Target.
1.vivienne westwood mean school girl dress
2. d & g belt
3. thigh high boots that could be used as a weapon
This outfit would have to be purchased for a melancholy mood after I win the lottery. (Or after both of my children have completed school) D&G, Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen are not part of my budget or sold at Target.
1.vivienne westwood mean school girl dress 2. d & g belt
3. thigh high boots that could be used as a weapon
iFancy with a little bit of iFresh
"Fancy Fresh" is how I would describe this outfit. I like the formal jacket with the casual converse tennies.
1. fancy tweed jacket
2. fresh pink hoodie
3. fancy bracelet
4. fresh grey Jack Purcell tennis shoes
1. fancy tweed jacket
2. fresh pink hoodie
3. fancy bracelet
4. fresh grey Jack Purcell tennis shoes
iFun
1. usb turntable
Best Buy is supposed to start selling albums. (Albums will be a completely new invention for children under the age of 16. A couple of weeks ago I tried to explain cassette tapes to my daughter. She looked at me like I could only listen to tapes in Fred Flinstone's car.) The cool thing about this turntable is it will capture all the charm that is only on albums and transfer the audio to your computer. Jazz is supposed to sound better on a record player. My favorite albums I played over and over again when I was younger were "Imagine" by John Lennon and "Every Rose has a Thorn" by Poison. Luckily I have the best of the two saved at my mother's house, you can guess which album I am referring to.
2. iPod Mixer
Although I don't like to dance I like music. All types of music. Country. Classical. Rap. R & B. Pop. My mood totally changes depending upon what music I am listening to. When I know I have to do something horrible to do, JayZ gets played really loud in my car. Maybe I could make a bi-polar creation mixing JayZ and Andrea Bocelli. Just call me Mrs. Mix-A-Lot .
3. iPhone camera lenses
These nifty little gadgets are for the iPhone's camera. The wide lense is my favorite, but there are other fun ones. Kaleidoscope. Hearts. Starburst. Sparkle. All for $8 each. I don't think that's bad at all.
4. iPhone Skin
I am one of three people in the known world that doesn't own an iPhone. I am not making any sort of statement against technology. I really want one but I refuse to pay an early termination fee on my cell phone contract. Only a couple more months to go and the iPhone and I will become one. I have a list of apps that I "need" and I will be off and running with this cute owl iPhone skin.
Best Buy is supposed to start selling albums. (Albums will be a completely new invention for children under the age of 16. A couple of weeks ago I tried to explain cassette tapes to my daughter. She looked at me like I could only listen to tapes in Fred Flinstone's car.) The cool thing about this turntable is it will capture all the charm that is only on albums and transfer the audio to your computer. Jazz is supposed to sound better on a record player. My favorite albums I played over and over again when I was younger were "Imagine" by John Lennon and "Every Rose has a Thorn" by Poison. Luckily I have the best of the two saved at my mother's house, you can guess which album I am referring to.
2. iPod Mixer
Although I don't like to dance I like music. All types of music. Country. Classical. Rap. R & B. Pop. My mood totally changes depending upon what music I am listening to. When I know I have to do something horrible to do, JayZ gets played really loud in my car. Maybe I could make a bi-polar creation mixing JayZ and Andrea Bocelli. Just call me Mrs. Mix-A-Lot .
3. iPhone camera lenses
These nifty little gadgets are for the iPhone's camera. The wide lense is my favorite, but there are other fun ones. Kaleidoscope. Hearts. Starburst. Sparkle. All for $8 each. I don't think that's bad at all.
4. iPhone Skin
I am one of three people in the known world that doesn't own an iPhone. I am not making any sort of statement against technology. I really want one but I refuse to pay an early termination fee on my cell phone contract. Only a couple more months to go and the iPhone and I will become one. I have a list of apps that I "need" and I will be off and running with this cute owl iPhone skin.
WTJ Date Night Outfit
1. boyfriend blazer
2. grandpa watch
3. string of pearls
4. possibly the cutest booties every crafted in the history of cobblering
2. grandpa watch
3. string of pearls
4. possibly the cutest booties every crafted in the history of cobblering
Date Night: Pasadena
According to every relationship expert, married couples should schedule date nights. My husband and I used to "go out" all the time. I was at home and he has a condensed work schedule that allowed us to spend at least 2 days a week alone (at least until the kids came home). Since I started working we haven't really done anything together, except go grocery shopping and devise plans on how to minimize the amount of food that our two adult sized children eat. In light of their adult size and the beginning of the new school year it is clear that our house will be empty (and our refrigerator full) in a very short amount of time. What will we do? I don't want to stare at him while he watches Sports Center and every sports (or anything else that can be categorized as a sport) game played in the world. I don't need to do everything with him but we should be each others companion and not just parents to our children. Some of my trip and activity posts are ideas (and not so subtle hints) about what I would like us to do together. Pasadena is a place that I love, love, love. I love the Craftsman style houses, the pedestrian friendly neighborhoods, the little mom and pop stores, community activities, the list can go on and on. (uhm....I love it) Accommodations:
The Westin Pasadena They have a ton of special offers that make the stay very affordable, especially given the quality of the hotel.
Activities:
Laemmle Theatre Built in the 1930's and specializes in showing critically acclaimed, independent feature films. (I have mixed feelings about movies being a date activity, the couple basically sits quietly next to each other. At the very least there needs to be an activity before or after the movie to make the date successful.)
The Ice House Comedy Club Paul Rodriguez and a bunch of other people that I don't know by name but I recognize their faces from comedy specials on tv. I remember laughing and nearly peeing my pants a couple of times, seems very promising.
Last but not least - Food:Arroyo Chop House USDA Prime, dry aged meat. Boys love meat. No matter how hard it is on their bodies as they age. They love it. Something about the smell of meat awakens something in their d.n.a. I am willing to sacrafice myself and eat a delicious steak. Marriage is about give and take. I am also willing to have a delightful dessert, if it will help the evening along. What a giver.
Il Fornaio An Italian restaurant that explores the cuisine of different Italian regions (using food!!) and was also a 2009 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence recipient. They hearth bake their own bread and make pasta and pizza dough daily, need I say more?
Bag of Tricks
1. orange slouch bag The perfect size to store snacks, a couple of drinks, a few magazines, perhaps a travel pillow and all the other normal stuff.
2. swing jacket It is not so long that it will get in the way when I am sitting on a blanket and not too fitted in case I need to hide the after effects of enjoying the festival food a little too much (plenty of room for emergency expansion).
3. fireflower scarf The pattern will help to distract the eye away from any evidence (i.e. stain, dribble or spot) of my enjoyment of festival food. The scarf is also big enough to be bunched up as a pillow for a nap or to use as a small blanket. Wouldn't that be wonderful? A nap after lunch at a blues concert?
2. swing jacket It is not so long that it will get in the way when I am sitting on a blanket and not too fitted in case I need to hide the after effects of enjoying the festival food a little too much (plenty of room for emergency expansion).
3. fireflower scarf The pattern will help to distract the eye away from any evidence (i.e. stain, dribble or spot) of my enjoyment of festival food. The scarf is also big enough to be bunched up as a pillow for a nap or to use as a small blanket. Wouldn't that be wonderful? A nap after lunch at a blues concert?
