Cake Wrecks is publishing a book and going on tour. The first stop you ask?
Orlando, FL Borders (Winter Park)Tuesday, September 22, 5PM.
Unfortunately it falls in the middle of the week, and I can't take any time off for work.
What did I do today at work?
1. Browsed on Etsy.com at awesomely cool hand creations and vintage brew ha-ha.
2. Read all of the updates of blogs I am following.
3. Made reservations at Alinea, a hugely famous restaurant in Chicago. If you have never heard of it, definitely click on the link and take a look. You have to book at least 2 months in advance and secure your reservation with a credit card. You can read a great review with beautiful photographs by 5 Star Foodie Culinary Adventures
4. Talked to my Sister through email
5. Facebook stalked people
6. Joined the BlogHER community
7. Had lunch with my boss
8. Completed 2 crossword puzzles
9. Looked up recipes on my fave recipe blog Simply Recipes. This blog inspires my cooking on a daily basis.
What am I craving right now? Ceviche, Fondue, Bisque (of any kind: mushroom, butternut squash, corn, crab, shrimp, lobster)
Friday, July 31, 2009
Living Notoriously Well
We had a fabulous night with our friends who just moved back to town. [We will call them A&J]
They have chosen a beautiful condo on the St. John's River which is absolutely gorgeous. I can't wait to see what they do with the place! We had a wonderful evening at my favorite restaurant Bistro AIX, followed by beer at our local hometown brewery: Bold City Brewery. Yesterday they tapped a brand new beer: Orange Blossom Mad Manatee Cask Ale, dry-hopped with Amarillo Hops. It was very tasty. We played Connect Four and Uno at the Tap Room while enjoyed the Cask Ale. We had a blast.... a little too much fun because I am super tired this morning.
I spent time yesterday and today browsing wedding ideas with my sister. I love weddings...
I am trying to focus my efforts right now on adding decorative touches to my house. I love the paint colors, but we need some wall art and some above cabinet lighting. I also want to replace the light fixture in my foyer. This sounds like a great time to make a list.
1. Wall Art: I am considering several options at this point but I really like this item I found on Etsy.com: Barren Winter Birch Tree Triptych - 3 Panel Mounted Vinyl Wall Art
2. Something cute in my kitchen also found on Etsy: KEEP CALM Parody Martini Glass Modern Wall Art Bar Decor Sign This is the image found at the top of this blog post.
3. Bedroom: I found this duvet cover at West Elm that I think is beautiful. I am not sure if you know this, but Mr. Foodie is a professional painter. Lately he has really wanted to repaint our bedroom. I think this duvet might inspire him: organic cotton sketch-leaf duvet cover + sham
4. We need a mirror for our bedroom. I am trying to decide if we should hang on the wall, or get a floor mirror. I found several options at West Elm, but nothing I absolutely love.
Too bad I don't have any cash to be purchasing these items. At least I can have fun while looking.
They have chosen a beautiful condo on the St. John's River which is absolutely gorgeous. I can't wait to see what they do with the place! We had a wonderful evening at my favorite restaurant Bistro AIX, followed by beer at our local hometown brewery: Bold City Brewery. Yesterday they tapped a brand new beer: Orange Blossom Mad Manatee Cask Ale, dry-hopped with Amarillo Hops. It was very tasty. We played Connect Four and Uno at the Tap Room while enjoyed the Cask Ale. We had a blast.... a little too much fun because I am super tired this morning.
I spent time yesterday and today browsing wedding ideas with my sister. I love weddings...
I am trying to focus my efforts right now on adding decorative touches to my house. I love the paint colors, but we need some wall art and some above cabinet lighting. I also want to replace the light fixture in my foyer. This sounds like a great time to make a list.
1. Wall Art: I am considering several options at this point but I really like this item I found on Etsy.com: Barren Winter Birch Tree Triptych - 3 Panel Mounted Vinyl Wall Art
2. Something cute in my kitchen also found on Etsy: KEEP CALM Parody Martini Glass Modern Wall Art Bar Decor Sign This is the image found at the top of this blog post.
3. Bedroom: I found this duvet cover at West Elm that I think is beautiful. I am not sure if you know this, but Mr. Foodie is a professional painter. Lately he has really wanted to repaint our bedroom. I think this duvet might inspire him: organic cotton sketch-leaf duvet cover + sham
4. We need a mirror for our bedroom. I am trying to decide if we should hang on the wall, or get a floor mirror. I found several options at West Elm, but nothing I absolutely love.
Too bad I don't have any cash to be purchasing these items. At least I can have fun while looking.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Excitement in the air!
After talking to my Mom and Sister it looks like this engagement will be coming before the end of the year. Yay! I am super-super excited. My Sister is a really down to earth kind of gal with an appreciation for the outdoors. She loves to hunt and fish with her boyfriend. They really make a great couple. Plus they are too cute because of their freckles!
We have already started looking at wedding venues because she would like to have the wedding next April - July so she would have to book it quickly after the engagement. So far our favorite is the San Marco Preservation Hall. This place would be perfect for her. They could have an outdoor reception in the garden. They will probably have only 50+ guest so this would be perfectly intimate. She is thinking of doing barbecue, southern style food which sounds great to me!
We already have plans for the weekend. We are celebrating her boyfriend's birthday on Saturday. They are making Low Country Boil and I am bringing a lovely corn salad. Recipe courtesy of a good friend, and fellow culinary aficionado.
The corn salad has 5 basic ingredients: Fresh corn, Cherry Tomatoes, Feta, Basil, S&P
What else do you need for a delightful and refreshing summer salad? This would be great with a nice summery sangria.
We have already started looking at wedding venues because she would like to have the wedding next April - July so she would have to book it quickly after the engagement. So far our favorite is the San Marco Preservation Hall. This place would be perfect for her. They could have an outdoor reception in the garden. They will probably have only 50+ guest so this would be perfectly intimate. She is thinking of doing barbecue, southern style food which sounds great to me!
We already have plans for the weekend. We are celebrating her boyfriend's birthday on Saturday. They are making Low Country Boil and I am bringing a lovely corn salad. Recipe courtesy of a good friend, and fellow culinary aficionado.
The corn salad has 5 basic ingredients: Fresh corn, Cherry Tomatoes, Feta, Basil, S&P
What else do you need for a delightful and refreshing summer salad? This would be great with a nice summery sangria.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Cats
I love my cat. If I could be an animal for a day I would be a black kitty cat like my Southpaw. He is always relaxed. He loves to have fun. I wish I could get excited about catnip like he does.
It is thundering outside.
Mr. Foodie is forcing me to watch the third Matrix movie. I am going to seriously intervene in the Netflix queue because he is making bad choices. The only thing that gets me through his movie choices is a drink. I am currently enjoying a Mimosa.
Mr. Foodie entices me to watch the movie with memories of the past. The Matrix was the first movie we ever saw together, back in 10th grade, when we were 15 and just met. Okay fine.... his charm has worked on me again. Going to watch the movie and sneak in some kisses!
It is thundering outside.
Mr. Foodie is forcing me to watch the third Matrix movie. I am going to seriously intervene in the Netflix queue because he is making bad choices. The only thing that gets me through his movie choices is a drink. I am currently enjoying a Mimosa.
Mr. Foodie entices me to watch the movie with memories of the past. The Matrix was the first movie we ever saw together, back in 10th grade, when we were 15 and just met. Okay fine.... his charm has worked on me again. Going to watch the movie and sneak in some kisses!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Maple-Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Smoked Paprika and Ginger
Excellent dinner! Served with steam broccoli and a dinner roll.
Ingredients
3/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup molasses , light or mild
2 tablespoons dry sherry
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1/4 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon table salt
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 pork tenderloins (1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds each)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 375 degrees. Stir ½ cup maple syrup, molasses, sherry, paprika, and ginger together in 2-cup liquid measure; set aside. Whisk cornstarch, sugar, salt, and black pepper in small bowl until combined. Transfer cornstarch mixture to rimmed baking sheet. Pat tenderloins dry with paper towels, then roll in cornstarch mixture until evenly coated on all sides. Thoroughly pat off excess cornstarch mixture.
2. Heat oil in 12-inch heavy-bottomed nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until just beginning to smoke. Reduce heat to medium and place both tenderloins in skillet, leaving at least 1 inch in between. Cook until well browned on all sides, 8 to 12 minutes. Transfer tenderloins to wire rack set in rimmed baking sheet.
3. Pour off excess fat from skillet and return to medium heat. Add syrup mixture to skillet, scraping up browned bits with wooden spoon, and cook until reduced to ½ cup, about 2 minutes. Transfer 2 tablespoons glaze to small bowl and set aside. Using remaining glaze, brush each tenderloin with approximately 1 tablespoon glaze. Roast until instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest part of tenderloins registers 130 degrees, 12 to 20 minutes. Brush each tenderloin with another tablespoon glaze and continue to roast until instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest part of tenderloins registers 135 to 140 degrees, 2 to 4 minutes longer. Remove tenderloins from oven and brush each with remaining glaze; let rest, uncovered, 10 minutes.
4. While tenderloins rest, stir remaining ¼ cup maple syrup into reserved 2 tablespoons glaze. Brush each tenderloin with 1 tablespoon glaze. Transfer meat to cutting board and slice into ¼-inch-thick pieces. Serve, passing extra glaze at table
Ingredients
3/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup molasses , light or mild
2 tablespoons dry sherry
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1/4 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon table salt
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 pork tenderloins (1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds each)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 375 degrees. Stir ½ cup maple syrup, molasses, sherry, paprika, and ginger together in 2-cup liquid measure; set aside. Whisk cornstarch, sugar, salt, and black pepper in small bowl until combined. Transfer cornstarch mixture to rimmed baking sheet. Pat tenderloins dry with paper towels, then roll in cornstarch mixture until evenly coated on all sides. Thoroughly pat off excess cornstarch mixture.
2. Heat oil in 12-inch heavy-bottomed nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until just beginning to smoke. Reduce heat to medium and place both tenderloins in skillet, leaving at least 1 inch in between. Cook until well browned on all sides, 8 to 12 minutes. Transfer tenderloins to wire rack set in rimmed baking sheet.
3. Pour off excess fat from skillet and return to medium heat. Add syrup mixture to skillet, scraping up browned bits with wooden spoon, and cook until reduced to ½ cup, about 2 minutes. Transfer 2 tablespoons glaze to small bowl and set aside. Using remaining glaze, brush each tenderloin with approximately 1 tablespoon glaze. Roast until instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest part of tenderloins registers 130 degrees, 12 to 20 minutes. Brush each tenderloin with another tablespoon glaze and continue to roast until instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest part of tenderloins registers 135 to 140 degrees, 2 to 4 minutes longer. Remove tenderloins from oven and brush each with remaining glaze; let rest, uncovered, 10 minutes.
4. While tenderloins rest, stir remaining ¼ cup maple syrup into reserved 2 tablespoons glaze. Brush each tenderloin with 1 tablespoon glaze. Transfer meat to cutting board and slice into ¼-inch-thick pieces. Serve, passing extra glaze at table
10 Things
While napping in my car during my lunch break I got an idea to make a list of 10 things on my blog. The 10 things don't necessarily mesh together, but oh well. It's my freaking blog and I can type what I want!
1. I am trying to plan a picnic with my hubby for this weekend at the spot where he proposed. We need some serious together time because life, work, and family have been seriously getting between the two of us! I plan on bringing my camera to take some pics of the spot. Maybe I can talk him into letting me take some scandalous pictures of him, but I doubt it.
2. We are having maple glazed pork tenderloin for dinner tonight. A Cook's Illustrated Recipe that I will share with everyone once I make it.
3. I tried a new place for lunch today: TacoLu's in Jacksonville Beach. Off the freaking chain tacos man! This is my new favoritest place ever. I am making Mr. Foodie go here. They have a lamb taco... nuff said.
4. I purchased the water goblets I posted a few days ago. They haven't shipped yet, maybe tomorrow. Something to look forward to. I haven't been doing any shopping lately, but they were such a great deal and I had a $75 gift card left over from the wedding (1.5 years ago) so it helped with the cost. I am excited about using them to entertain in the coming months.
5. Our best friends are taking the Bar Exam today and tomorrow and this seriously stresses me out even though I have nothing to do with it. I guess it may be sympathy pains or something else weird...
6. I am incredibly angry that NBC cancelled Dirty, Sexy, Money. What a great show. The acting is superb, I love the music, and the writing is awesome. Everything I like on TV always gets ruined: Deadwood, Arrested Development, etc.
7. The Next Food Network Star: The season finale airs next Sunday night. I am really looking forward to see who wins. We are totally rooting for Melisse because she is fun and makes recipes that I would want to make. If they give her a show it will definitely be a huge hit! The other guy who is left, Jeffrey, really annoys the crap out of me when he talks. I also can't stand his slicked back greasy hair-do. Who told him that this was acceptable?
8. I finished my wedding album last night, just need to save up the money to get it printed. It is hard to commit to finishing this thing because it seems so final.
9. My Sister told me she thinks she will be engaged by Thanksgiving during our lunch date yesterday. It was the first time in months that we actually saw each other without other people around. We had a good time. She wants to have an outdoor wedding which sounds like fun. She will make a beautiful bride. I see a hideous bridesmaid dress in my future: "Hunter Green" is the color she wants. Holy S*** you gotta be kidding me. I expressed my distaste and reminded her that I chose a plain black dress that complemented her figure for my wedding and I expect the same.
10. Last but not least... The sky is absolutely beautiful right now. I am lucky to have such an awesome office window view of trees and blue sky. Thanks Karma!
1. I am trying to plan a picnic with my hubby for this weekend at the spot where he proposed. We need some serious together time because life, work, and family have been seriously getting between the two of us! I plan on bringing my camera to take some pics of the spot. Maybe I can talk him into letting me take some scandalous pictures of him, but I doubt it.
2. We are having maple glazed pork tenderloin for dinner tonight. A Cook's Illustrated Recipe that I will share with everyone once I make it.
3. I tried a new place for lunch today: TacoLu's in Jacksonville Beach. Off the freaking chain tacos man! This is my new favoritest place ever. I am making Mr. Foodie go here. They have a lamb taco... nuff said.
4. I purchased the water goblets I posted a few days ago. They haven't shipped yet, maybe tomorrow. Something to look forward to. I haven't been doing any shopping lately, but they were such a great deal and I had a $75 gift card left over from the wedding (1.5 years ago) so it helped with the cost. I am excited about using them to entertain in the coming months.
5. Our best friends are taking the Bar Exam today and tomorrow and this seriously stresses me out even though I have nothing to do with it. I guess it may be sympathy pains or something else weird...
6. I am incredibly angry that NBC cancelled Dirty, Sexy, Money. What a great show. The acting is superb, I love the music, and the writing is awesome. Everything I like on TV always gets ruined: Deadwood, Arrested Development, etc.
7. The Next Food Network Star: The season finale airs next Sunday night. I am really looking forward to see who wins. We are totally rooting for Melisse because she is fun and makes recipes that I would want to make. If they give her a show it will definitely be a huge hit! The other guy who is left, Jeffrey, really annoys the crap out of me when he talks. I also can't stand his slicked back greasy hair-do. Who told him that this was acceptable?
8. I finished my wedding album last night, just need to save up the money to get it printed. It is hard to commit to finishing this thing because it seems so final.
9. My Sister told me she thinks she will be engaged by Thanksgiving during our lunch date yesterday. It was the first time in months that we actually saw each other without other people around. We had a good time. She wants to have an outdoor wedding which sounds like fun. She will make a beautiful bride. I see a hideous bridesmaid dress in my future: "Hunter Green" is the color she wants. Holy S*** you gotta be kidding me. I expressed my distaste and reminded her that I chose a plain black dress that complemented her figure for my wedding and I expect the same.
10. Last but not least... The sky is absolutely beautiful right now. I am lucky to have such an awesome office window view of trees and blue sky. Thanks Karma!
ABCs
ABCs: Everything I need to know I learned in my twenties.
Everyone should ready this article from a fellow blogger: http://www.genpink.com/.
Everyone should ready this article from a fellow blogger: http://www.genpink.com/.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Weddings without Booze
Who ever thought it was okay to have a wedding without booze? I always thought Booze was a funny word.
Mr. Foodie and I spent our entire weekend in Charleston attending a wedding. There were so many things wrong with this wedding I don't even know where to start. Below you will find some of the dreadful highlights.
1. Hot and Sweaty - The temperature reached 90 degrees in the church. We were all sweating our butts off with the sun shining directly on us. The groom was a huge sweat-ball the entire time.
2. A family friend couple sang a duet. Possible the worst thing I have ever heard in my life. I could barely control my laughter.
3. The wedding planner was a bumbling idiot who had no idea what was going on.
4. The Reception - Hot as hell. We were still sweating. Our only solace was water, Sweet Tea, and Lemonade. No freaking booze at all!!!!
5. The menu was misspelled, and said "rusted bread."
6. I got elbowed twice by the groom's family while in the buffet line. Oh, did I mention they are all Greek and act like a bunch of weirdos??
7. No alcohol.
8. No toasts at the rehearsal dinner or wedding. No bouquet toss. Nothing romantic or fun. No dancing..... it goes on and on.
We all agreed this was the worst wedding we had ever been to. The highlight of our weekend was Frozen Alcohol Slushy Drinks at Wet Willie's - a cheesy place in Charleston. We also found a new nickname for Mr. Foodie, "Robo-Cop." This name is courtesy of his brother for his obsession with technology, even when it delays him, and his monotone voice when dialing over Blue-Tooth phones.
Mr. Foodie and I spent our entire weekend in Charleston attending a wedding. There were so many things wrong with this wedding I don't even know where to start. Below you will find some of the dreadful highlights.
1. Hot and Sweaty - The temperature reached 90 degrees in the church. We were all sweating our butts off with the sun shining directly on us. The groom was a huge sweat-ball the entire time.
2. A family friend couple sang a duet. Possible the worst thing I have ever heard in my life. I could barely control my laughter.
3. The wedding planner was a bumbling idiot who had no idea what was going on.
4. The Reception - Hot as hell. We were still sweating. Our only solace was water, Sweet Tea, and Lemonade. No freaking booze at all!!!!
5. The menu was misspelled, and said "rusted bread."
6. I got elbowed twice by the groom's family while in the buffet line. Oh, did I mention they are all Greek and act like a bunch of weirdos??
7. No alcohol.
8. No toasts at the rehearsal dinner or wedding. No bouquet toss. Nothing romantic or fun. No dancing..... it goes on and on.
We all agreed this was the worst wedding we had ever been to. The highlight of our weekend was Frozen Alcohol Slushy Drinks at Wet Willie's - a cheesy place in Charleston. We also found a new nickname for Mr. Foodie, "Robo-Cop." This name is courtesy of his brother for his obsession with technology, even when it delays him, and his monotone voice when dialing over Blue-Tooth phones.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Edward Maison Water Goblets & Wineglasses, Set of 4 | Williams-Sonoma
Edward Maison Water Goblets & Wineglasses, Set of 4 | Williams-Sonoma
Shared via AddThis
I have been looking for water glasses for my table, and these are perfect. I am purchasing them when I get home from work this afternoon.
Shared via AddThis
I have been looking for water glasses for my table, and these are perfect. I am purchasing them when I get home from work this afternoon.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Update
We bought our Chicago plane tickets on Sunday so I have been busy gathering trip plans. I am super excited about an awesome restaurant I found called Alinea. Here is an interesting review of the restaurant. We have several activities lined up: Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, John Hancock Observatory, Architecture Tour, etc. I have also found an awesome champagne bar called Pops for Champagne, touted as "the nation's most acclaimed champagne bar." They even have amazing music performances and live jazz.
We are headed to a wedding this weekend for a family member. The ceremony and reception will be at the Tidewater Chapel in Mt. Pleasant. We are leaving Friday morning and return on Sunday. I still have to get a wedding gift for the couple.
I posted a few days ago about an awesome new drink called Loire Lemonade. I am actually enjoying a glass as I type. Here is the recipe for those who are curious:
Makes 4 servings (you can easily cut it down to 1 or 2 of you like)
2 ounces fresh lemon juice
4 ounces Simple Syrup
4 ounces Citrus Vodka (we use Absolut Citron)
16 ounces Sauvignon Blanc
4 lemon twists for garnish.
1. Fill a shaker halfway with ice cubes. Add lemon juice, simple syrup and vodka. Shake well.
2. Put 2 ice cubes in 4 wine glasses (or highball). Divide the shaken mixture among the glasses. Add 4 ounces of the wine to each glass and stir gently.
3. Twist a lemon twist over each glass and drop in. Serve immediately. Try to release the essential oils into the glass.
*in my opinion this could be made ahead and served at a party, just like a traditional Sangria.
We are headed to a wedding this weekend for a family member. The ceremony and reception will be at the Tidewater Chapel in Mt. Pleasant. We are leaving Friday morning and return on Sunday. I still have to get a wedding gift for the couple.
I posted a few days ago about an awesome new drink called Loire Lemonade. I am actually enjoying a glass as I type. Here is the recipe for those who are curious:
Makes 4 servings (you can easily cut it down to 1 or 2 of you like)
2 ounces fresh lemon juice
4 ounces Simple Syrup
4 ounces Citrus Vodka (we use Absolut Citron)
16 ounces Sauvignon Blanc
4 lemon twists for garnish.
1. Fill a shaker halfway with ice cubes. Add lemon juice, simple syrup and vodka. Shake well.
2. Put 2 ice cubes in 4 wine glasses (or highball). Divide the shaken mixture among the glasses. Add 4 ounces of the wine to each glass and stir gently.
3. Twist a lemon twist over each glass and drop in. Serve immediately. Try to release the essential oils into the glass.
*in my opinion this could be made ahead and served at a party, just like a traditional Sangria.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Saturday Night
Good morning... Last night we had a great evening with family. Mr. Foodie's parents and grandparents came over for dinner. Mr. Foodie made his signature dish: Baked Ziti. It is one of the best things I have ever tasted. I also love it because it is a one dish meal great for dinner parties. We served it with garlic bread. For dessert I made Smore Brownies, a recipe I found on the Food Network website. We served them with cappuccino and they were a big hit. Mr. Foodie even ate Smore Brownies for breakfast this morning!
The hit of the evening was a new cocktail we tried called Loire Lemonade. I bought a new cocktail book in San Francisco for Mr. Foodie called "Wine Cocktails." The book is broken up into sections: Red, White, Bubbly, & Exotic. The Loire Lemonade recipe contained fresh lemon juice, citrus Vodka, and simple syrup topped off with chilled Savignon Blanc. A wonderful recipe that will be making it's way onto our cocktail menu.
We are looking forward to next weekend because we are going to Charleston for a family wedding. We already have dinner plans for both nights (wedding stuff), but I am going to do a little research and find a place for lunch on Friday, and maybe Sunday if we have time.
The hit of the evening was a new cocktail we tried called Loire Lemonade. I bought a new cocktail book in San Francisco for Mr. Foodie called "Wine Cocktails." The book is broken up into sections: Red, White, Bubbly, & Exotic. The Loire Lemonade recipe contained fresh lemon juice, citrus Vodka, and simple syrup topped off with chilled Savignon Blanc. A wonderful recipe that will be making it's way onto our cocktail menu.
We are looking forward to next weekend because we are going to Charleston for a family wedding. We already have dinner plans for both nights (wedding stuff), but I am going to do a little research and find a place for lunch on Friday, and maybe Sunday if we have time.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Back in the swing of things
My trip to California was amazing. I got to spend time with my Mom and Grandparents which was really special to me. We saw some beautiful things while we were there. The highlight of the trip was riding the Cable Cars up the extremely steep hills. We also went to Monterey and Big Sur. Mr. Foodie and I are planning a trip next year because he has to go there! I brought him back a cocktail recipe book focusing on wine cocktails and bleu cheese dijon mustard.
I am trying to get back into the swing of things. At least today is Friday so I will have the weekend to recover. I made an awesome Reuben Sandwich for dinner last night that blew both of us away. The recipe came from my autographed Barbara Jean cookbook given to me by my Mother in Law. I will definitely be making this one again. I don't have any pictures because we ate them too fast!
We are leaving for Charleston a week from today for a family wedding. Looking forward to a road trip in our new car. Keep you posted.
I am trying to get back into the swing of things. At least today is Friday so I will have the weekend to recover. I made an awesome Reuben Sandwich for dinner last night that blew both of us away. The recipe came from my autographed Barbara Jean cookbook given to me by my Mother in Law. I will definitely be making this one again. I don't have any pictures because we ate them too fast!
We are leaving for Charleston a week from today for a family wedding. Looking forward to a road trip in our new car. Keep you posted.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Birthday
I just booked Mr. Foodies birthday trip. We are flying to Nashville on October 31st to watch the Jaguars play the Tennessee Titans. We have always wanted to go to an away game and here is our chance. We are flying Southwest and staying at the best hotel in Nashville: Loews Vanderbilt Hotel.
I also found a great Blues Club to take Mr. Foodie to while we are there: Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar. I am really looking forward to surprising him!!
I also found a great Blues Club to take Mr. Foodie to while we are there: Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar. I am really looking forward to surprising him!!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Totally Awkward Tuesdays
Totally Awkward Tuesdays - The concept brought to you by the lovely Tova Darling. Check out her blog for more Awkward moments.
The Beauty of CakeWrecks
If anyone has failed to check out the Cakewrecks blog then you are totally missing out. In my opinion it is one of the best blogs out there. The dry humor of the blog owner never ceases to amaze me.
I made Baked Salmon with a mustard and dill crumb crust last night for dinner along with spinach. Everything turned out great, but our hunger we forgot to take any photos. I did however begin taking photos for the other blog I am considering right now entitled "My Husband is a Slob." I definitely have material to keep that thing updated.
I am trying to nail down the details for our Chicago trip. We are deciding between two hotel options:
Trump International Hotel & Tower
-or-
The Wit Hotel
The two hotels are very different, especially when it comes to price! Mr. Foodie's parents are buying all of our plane tickets with Amex points so we just have to decide on a hotel. I am also looking into several restaurant options and activities. Yay!!!
Boo! I just looked out the window and it is raining and overcast. So much for leaving work for lunch today... I will be eating a cafeteria creation with a side of reality check.
I made Baked Salmon with a mustard and dill crumb crust last night for dinner along with spinach. Everything turned out great, but our hunger we forgot to take any photos. I did however begin taking photos for the other blog I am considering right now entitled "My Husband is a Slob." I definitely have material to keep that thing updated.
I am trying to nail down the details for our Chicago trip. We are deciding between two hotel options:
Trump International Hotel & Tower
-or-
The Wit Hotel
The two hotels are very different, especially when it comes to price! Mr. Foodie's parents are buying all of our plane tickets with Amex points so we just have to decide on a hotel. I am also looking into several restaurant options and activities. Yay!!!
Boo! I just looked out the window and it is raining and overcast. So much for leaving work for lunch today... I will be eating a cafeteria creation with a side of reality check.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Back in the swing of things...
Whenever we go away for the weekend it is always hard to get back to normal life. We had such a great time this weekend it is difficult for me to concentrate on work. This is especially true when I am leaving for San Francisco on Thursday. I am also working on making plans for our October Chicago trip. I am glad to be busy because it keeps me motivated.
I visited my college town this weekend and it brought back many memories. It is amazing how places and spaces can trigger emotions. I am very happy with the way my life is now with Mr. Foodie. I feel like we have evolved into our own selves more than we were back then. I also see this in my friends. We are all much more content with our own choices, quirks, personality, etc. I think it is lovely. Mr. Foodie and I are lucky to be surrounded by friends that are truly special. The future looks bright for all of us!
I have several personal goals for today. They say that writing things down helps you visualize your goals and makes you more likely to achieve them. Here goes...
Goals:
1. Laundry
2. Begin packing for SF
3. Choose a recipe for tonight
4. Grocery Store
5. Make a healthy dinner
I visited my college town this weekend and it brought back many memories. It is amazing how places and spaces can trigger emotions. I am very happy with the way my life is now with Mr. Foodie. I feel like we have evolved into our own selves more than we were back then. I also see this in my friends. We are all much more content with our own choices, quirks, personality, etc. I think it is lovely. Mr. Foodie and I are lucky to be surrounded by friends that are truly special. The future looks bright for all of us!
I have several personal goals for today. They say that writing things down helps you visualize your goals and makes you more likely to achieve them. Here goes...
Goals:
1. Laundry
2. Begin packing for SF
3. Choose a recipe for tonight
4. Grocery Store
5. Make a healthy dinner
Sunday, July 5, 2009
4th of July
We enjoyed a wonderful weekend in Gainesville with our dearest friends to celebrate the 4th of July. Our lovely host prepared a Strata (shown in the picture above) and it was quite lovely. I will definitely be using this concept for Christmas Breakfast this year. Never too early to start planning for the next big holiday! My Mom leaves for San Francisco in the morning and I will be joining her on Thursday. If only I didn't have to work for the next 4 days... We are also trying to pin down the details for a trip to Chicago in September with Mr. Foodie's parents.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Happy Wednesday
I didn't post yesterday because I spent my time customizing my blog. I created my header in Photoshop and I am very excited about it. Luckily there are many resources on the web that walk us newbies through the process. I am not especially creative in the design arena (using Photoshop from scratch) but I am pretty proud of myself and happy with the header.
I saw my new therapist last Friday. This lady is super cool and very smart. She has taught me several coping strategies for dealing with my anxiety, etc. One of the key things to understand is that I control my happiness, not other people. This includes Mr. Foodie. I have to stop myself from letting his inaction cause me unhappiness. All he has been doing for the past week is sleeping when he gets home from work, sometimes 12 hours or more. I just don't understand this. Plus he has been super messy and not helpful around the house. I am tempted to create a blog entitled "My Husband is the messiest person alive." Wives/girlfriends could post pictures on the blog with a contest for the messiest man. Ha Ha! Wouldn't that be funny?
On a more positive note.... I am doing much better. Whenever I begin to get mad at Mr. Foodie I just ask myself one simple question "Is this making me happy?" Depending on the answer, I act accordingly. I have to re-train myself to take control of my life instead of letting another person who constantly lets me down impact my happiness level. I have much to be thankful for and should focus on that every day.
I saw my new therapist last Friday. This lady is super cool and very smart. She has taught me several coping strategies for dealing with my anxiety, etc. One of the key things to understand is that I control my happiness, not other people. This includes Mr. Foodie. I have to stop myself from letting his inaction cause me unhappiness. All he has been doing for the past week is sleeping when he gets home from work, sometimes 12 hours or more. I just don't understand this. Plus he has been super messy and not helpful around the house. I am tempted to create a blog entitled "My Husband is the messiest person alive." Wives/girlfriends could post pictures on the blog with a contest for the messiest man. Ha Ha! Wouldn't that be funny?
On a more positive note.... I am doing much better. Whenever I begin to get mad at Mr. Foodie I just ask myself one simple question "Is this making me happy?" Depending on the answer, I act accordingly. I have to re-train myself to take control of my life instead of letting another person who constantly lets me down impact my happiness level. I have much to be thankful for and should focus on that every day.
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