178 and Wine

Happiness in the simple things.

2012-01-28T08:53:00.001-08:00

On my living room wall is a picture of Mr. A and I standing in front of a limo moments before the dinner of our high school graduation.

I have that picture hanging there not because it reminds me of how smoking (I kid...) I was when I was 19 or how thin I was or how absolutely HUGE my hair was. The reason I have that picture hanging there is because it reminds me of how simple life was for us then. No mortgage. No responsibilities. Just pure, simple joy and excitement of the moments we were about to witness.

Back then (oh, we were young), Mr. A and I would talk on the phone in the wee hours of the morning dreaming about what our lives would be when we were older. There was never talk of mansions and fancy cars. I don't even remember wishing to travel to exotic places. I do remember however, the one wish we had for our lives together - yes, we knew we would be together - a simple house with the white picket fence and a little dog. That's it. I think we just assumed we'd be happy. I think we just assumed there would be children. It was such a modest dream.

I forget that dream often, now that I'm older. I get caught up in the 'what I wants' and never does that feed your soul or make you happy. It's always the little things; the late night phone calls and dreams of togetherness, the giggles of the kids, the wag of the dogs tail. They are so easy to overlook.

With each New Year...

2012-01-25T08:03:00.000-08:00

Pigsty or organized? It's such a fine line...

The drawer after - Evidence picture No.1

The drawer after - Evidence picture No. 2

I make promises to myself that I really can't keep. I promise to eat better (yah, when potato chips are my downfall and they are everywhere), exercise more, spend less, and on and on and on. Well, we'd hate to break the streak, wouldn't we (perhaps that's my thing)? This year I've decided that I'm going to: 1. be more organized and 2. try new things. In the process, I'm also going to focus on being happier!

Today, let's focus on the whole "becoming more organized thing". It's not that I'm a slob (Mom, no inputs here alright?) but I'm not winning any awards either. And I'm not trying too - let's make that clear shall we? No, what I'd prefer is to have a place where everything goes. Like, you know when you're trying to find a pencil and you can't find one to save your life? Or where do the scissors end up? That magazine you've been dying to read but "you've put it away so you could find it". Yah, I'd like to end all of those things. I've started. My house is a WRECK! It's like the storm before the calm....

The 12 days come and gone....

2012-01-18T12:07:00.000-08:00

I not only was ditched - I ditched you. I'm sorry there wasn't more written on the martini/cocktails this year. It was all a little crazy and I'm afraid it got a little nasty in the end. And not in the fun, hanging on the porcelain, dancing in the street, 'whooping it up' kind of way. Nah, it was more of the 'where's the kleenex?', 'what's this stuff I keep coughing up' kind of way. So I've been out of it and I'm just starting to see the light.

Now don't go getting all worried. I'm fine. It was a mere cold and not even one big enough to warrant a hospital visit. It's just been lingering and driving me batty and keeping me sober (which really is a bother). But I'm almost back to normal. So much so that I've started having thoughts... ack, I hate when I start having thoughts. It's sooo, well, irritating.

The last four or five months have been a bit of a whirlwind; holiday seasons... and as I no longer have to start planning for Thanksgiving or planning for Christmas, I've got a LOT of free time on my hands. Time, like a cold, like thoughts, is irritating. I've also been blessed to be doing a little 'freelance' work on the side. Which is great. Really. And I think that's led to the whole thing. Because I'm starting to like working. There's a bunch of plus' to working outside the home. Negatives too, but let's not dwell there. I'm not sure where this is all headed. I'm keeping my eyes and ears open. I may even break down and start looking at my parachute color (if you get this then you are totally a peep). I'm not getting any younger - a bunch of other dialogue to go along with that one...

I feel ditched.

2011-12-15T16:53:00.000-08:00

You know how Mr. A and I started this great tradition last year (yah, I know one year doesn't make a tradition but then, maybe it does...) of having a martini a day, for the 12 days leading up to Christmas? And you know how we were totally trying to figure out what to do this year? I did some research and I had settled on some really great 'Old fashioned' type cocktails. I WAS EXCITED. I made a list and everything. Really people, this is something I feel passionate about and I was researching it and EVERYTHING. This is the list:

1. Hot Buttered Rum

2. Brandy Alexander

3. Old fashioned (makes sense considering the list)

4. Bloody Mary

5. Tom Collins

6. Whiskey Sour

7. Rusty Nail

8. Singapore Sling

9. Gimlet

10. Rob Roy

11. Gin Fizz

12. Kir Royale (cause that's just classy)

Honorable mentions go to: The Mai Tai, A Manhattan and the always classic, Martini - shaken, not stirred.

Great list right?! I mean, that's impressive. But here's the thing, I haven't had one, NOT ONE, drink off this list. It's the 14th, I'm a good two days into this thing and NOTHING. You know how hard it's going to be for me to catch up? And if I skip tonight as well? (I have no spiced rum and I have to go in order...) I'm not all together sure if I can do it. I might have to combine a few days... or maybe just do it all in one? Decisions, decisions...

12 days of Christmas

2011-12-12T07:01:00.001-08:00

Get your thinking caps on! The Twelve Days of Christmas are fast approaching (like, tomorrow people) and I've yet to come up with a theme. I'm feeling the stress. What should we focus on this year? Something fruity? Something fun? Traditional?

Comments (nice ones please 'tis the season and all) are welcome and appreciated!

Finally, the stairs...

2011-12-05T08:56:00.000-08:00

Dear Martha, Thank you for your fun and creative ideas. Where would I be without you?

What the wood looks like when it's sanded and stained. The 'stuff' in the corner is filler. I wouldn't do this normally but my initial reaction when I took off the carpet was to paint the stair. After a bit of labour I saw the wood, grew interested and decided to keep it bare. The house is divided as to whether we should keep it this way or cover it up using some other method.

And here they are in all their glory. Before they were carpeted in a REALLY ugly pink/beige carpet... shagalishous. This carpet is still hanging out in 2 bedrooms and the master on-suite. Oh, yah, it's awesome.

Take a deep breathe. They aren't done, again, a trend... I'm all about consistency. I have a bit of filling to do on the sides and the poly needs to be applied but I have to say, I LOVE them. They are rustic and imperfect. In fact, it looks as though someone with virtually NO home improvement experience tried to create something out of nothing and possibly failed miserably. And it's hard work. Don't suddenly rip up the carpet of your house and think this is easy. It will take you LONG hours, tons of sandpaper and a scrape or two (by scrape I mean huge chunks of skin missing from your hand). It was sooo much freakin' fun though. I'd love for them to be over and done with but putting poly on stairs takes an awful long time - there's the whole drying thing and the whole getting motivated thing...

And Christmas fast approaches....

2011-12-03T05:23:00.000-08:00

The stairs still don't have the poly on them. But how can I even think of that when Little Drummer Boy is playing. Enjoy. This boy is 16 years old (or so the article said) and extremely talented. Little 8 pound baby Jesus would be smiling in his manger.

A work in progress.

2011-10-18T09:20:00.000-07:00

I'm working on the stairs.... and the upstairs flooring... and the molding... Pictures will follow soon!

Grab a pillow and cover your eyes.

2011-10-08T10:45:00.000-07:00

The things that go 'bump' in the night have nothing on these guys. ;) I was thinking of this as the daunting task of fall cleaning is at hand. It's a might bit overwhelming. I also think it's time for a bit more shrubbery in the garden.

The Hockey Sweater (Le Chandail De Hockey) HD

2011-09-23T18:01:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. The above is based on a famous Canadian book. It was one of the first books my son received when he was born. I suspect most Canadian children own this book. It explains our culture on sooo many levels. Enjoy - and giggle...

Other things.

2011-09-17T16:56:00.000-07:00

Spent some time on Pinterest again. Here's what I'm coveting right now - tomorrow is a new day.

1. This poster is fabulous; as is this one.

2. A recipe for Butterbeer. It is NOT for children. I wonder if this is what J.K. Rowling was thinking... and if it is it makes me LOVE England soooo much more. Note: This blog has a recipe for Cream Biscuits and Sausage Gravy on September 12th. They look quite appealing.

3. I've collected wine corks for quite awhile now and as you might imagine, I have quite a few. Last year I put a bunch of them in the garden for a natural mulch. It seems to have worked. Of course, that was a year ago and I was wondering as to what I should do with the 'new' corks. I think I should do make one of these! A little hot glue, some cardboard?

4. I thought about sending this to one of the boys in the mail. They love getting mail - it makes me feel special too... how about you?

5. I'm waiting for one of my readers to have a baby again. I giggled. I know you will too!

6. I tried to do this. The first year it worked wonderfully. I used beans and peas and they twirled and climbed and covered the sticks. The kids loved it.... well, the neighbor kid loved it. This year everything died. The sticks are starting to fall down and all in all, it just looks like a mess. Maybe next year...

7. I want to walk into anyone of these little houses and have a glass of wine with Mr. A. The one with the candles and the little table is my favorite.

8. Potato Chip Cookies. I'm DOOMED!

Some Things I Found Today.

2011-09-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

Never one to shy away from hours of Internet surfing, I've happened upon a few sites that I am now particularly fond of.

The first is an up and coming designer, Catalina Rozo. Check out the Market Grown bags. How great would it be to have one of those for the market here in Worthington? Alas, the bags are only sold by the farmers in Alachua County, FL. Maybe one of my creative friends will think of a way to whip one of these up right here. I tag you!

I originally found the bags on the dieline. The first blog entry that I read was for a label created for 337 - wine... You just have to be on board for anything that has to do with wine. The blog is more about package design but I judge a book by it's cover and that's probably why I enjoyed this so much.

Taking another step back and it brings us to House8810. I'm all in a dizzy over their retro 70's look; especially, but not limited to, these awesome Days of the Week Towels. How cute! It's a great place to look if you need a little something, something, for a new house that you may be considering... ;)

AND THEN, I came across pinterest. It's a website dedicated to keeping whatever you're interested in. And the bonus: you can check out what everyone else has found. There are some wonderful, wonderful ideas. It's just amazing. And when you click on a picture it will take you somewhere else. LOVE IT. I could spend days (and probably will) just going through everyones posts.

You thought your day was going to be empty. You're welcome. I'm off to go find some of that 337 and stare at pictures. Something tells me I'm going to have to sell something in order to afford the wine and the stuff in the pictures....

Jacques Pepin

2011-08-18T18:28:00.000-07:00

Jacques Pepin and his friends are pure genius. In 1965 they decided to hold 'The grandest picnic of all time". Lucky for me, some chefs in the Columbus area decided to recreate that picnic and sold the idea at a silent auction. How wonderful that a friend of mine invited Mr.A. and I to attend?!

So last night we rode a little bus out to a local farm with a dozen others and had one of the best meals I've ever had. As you walked off the bus there on a white linen table cloth, was a galvanized bucket filled with ice and bottles of wine. Lovely. And less than 20 minutes later an appetizer of walleye and coleslaw (not your average, everyday green cabbage variety) miraculously appeared in your hand. REALLY!

After that we were asked to walk down a path to the farmers field... Yes, this sounds a little "Children of the Corn"ish but there, amidst tall stalks of sunflowers and a wonderfully orange setting sun was another long table also covered in a white linen table cloth. On top stood elegant wine goblets, rustic breads and cheeses that would make your mouth water. Every bottle of wine was different. All 7 courses were different. The dessert of local ice cream and crushed cookies was AMAZING. It took all of 3 hours to arrive, eat and leave. I was almost convinced I was in Provence. Almost... I'm pretty sure we're going to try to recreate this for our 15th anniversary. That's only 3 years away.... any chance you're free?

Where did the time go?

2011-08-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

It seems to me that I've spent the whole summer sitting around like this little gopher. My words are more like, "S., S!, S!, Hey, E., E!, E.! Why is no one listening to me?" But all in all I get how that little guy is feeling.

And now that I have no voice left and I'm just starting to get into a groove with the kids, school is starting. Not just yet. Next week. Soon enough. I should have more time to accomplish all those tasks that I've been putting off and maybe even post something here every now and again.

I haven't started on the stairs yet let alone the bathrooms and the hallways... I have started applying around for employment. Nothing yet. Try to think positive thoughts for me and if you know someone, who knows someone, have them give me a ring!

Almost time.

2011-05-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

The days of summer are fast approaching. While I always love having the kids home full-time (I truly appreciate it sometime in July or near the end of August...) I have to admit I'm going to miss my one-on-one time with Mr.E. Next year he's off to school full time and I have to decide how I'm going to fill those days. Yes, there's always laundry, dishes and looking after the dog but I'm pretty sure that will only take up a day.

Frankly, heading back to the workforce scares the crud out of me. I haven't been part of it all for 8 years. That's a long time people. And not only that, I'm in a new country where a TON of people are looking for work and probably slightly more qualified than I, for any job. Granted, I would do awesome in a negotiations setting or with the bomb squad but how many positions for that could there be? Another thing, my CANADIAN degree is in Geo-Anthropology. That's up there with Psych majors and Philosophy - no offense to either of those... Crud.

So, here I sit, wondering about something that's not going to happen for months. Maybe longer if I don't settle for a career in the food services industry (ie. McDonald's - not that there's anything wrong with that either - Dear McDonald's people, please hire me). And I have to make up a resume. Man, this could take years....

Is it Summer where you are?

2011-05-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to be able to wear my sunglasses. It's about 80 degrees, the sun is shining and there's a breeze just cool enough to keep things wonderful. The kids are playing out in the field behind the house. They've finished their slushes (pineapple juice, limeade and lemonade blended with crushed ice) and they're happy as can be.
The pitcher of Sangria is chilling in the fridge. I've already had a glass (or two) with some of the crushed lemonade and some blueberries- just to keep things interesting.
A light lunch; cheesy dip with fresh herbs from the garden, perfectly ripe cherries, yummy whole wheat crackers from Trader Joe's and an exquisite italian salami. Perfect for enjoying the Oasis on this beautiful day. I'm sure summer must be here. Hoping it's there for you too.

Ultimate Dog Tease

2011-05-17T14:33:00.000-07:00

This is a HUGE hit in our house.

Dammmmittt.

2011-05-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

Thank you to my friend Stacy for getting me addicted to saying that. It's great except when I'm at the school carnival and I forget and I say it out loud instead of in my head. Nothing like teaching a bunch of 1st graders a new word.
I made the mistake of stepping on the scale today. Dammmiittt! I knew I was gaining weight. My stomach was bigger than my jeans and my shirts weren't fitting properly. Apparently my diet of frou frou coffee and McDonald's chocolate milkshakes was working against me! Who knew? Anyway, I've decided it's time to get serious. I'm just going to accept the new weight and live with it. Yah, you heard me right. I'm officially 30 pounds heavier than I was before I had kids. But that was 10 years ago and I ain't no spring chicken. I like food. I eat (fairly) right. I exercise. So screw it. If I want to eat M&M's then I'm going to eat M&M's and I'm not going to feel guilt about it.
I just had a birthday. I think not only getting older, I'm also getting wiser. I'm getting more relaxed and dammmiiittt I'm happier!
I made a big bunch of granola today. I also happened upon puffed Kamut. I added it to the granola. It tastes freakin' fantastic. See? I totally eat healthy.
The garden is in full swing. The Iris's are blooming, the peas are a couple of inches long and so are the squash. I had my first drink on The Oasis with my friend Ser. We got a little red as well. It was fabulous.
We're making our summer plans. I'd like it to include a lot of beer, sitting around with my friends and swimming at the pool. So far, so good. What about you?

Favourite Places

2011-04-20T06:44:00.000-07:00

The living room corner where you'll find me every night from 8-11 pm. The pictures aren't straight (they never are) and the kids jump on the couch (when I'm not looking) and I have more magazines than any one person needs.

These are the pictures I bought a couple of weeks ago. I purchased the frames from Target and Mr. A hung them up... It was a miracle. The mirror on the wall was one I was given by my uncle. A neighbour of his was going to throw it out! It was a very burnished gold but I had some handy dandy silver paint and a little kids paint brush. Now it's practically perfect for the space (meaning: it was free!).

The King Size bed! Yahoo. The bedroom is almost done. I'd like to rip up the rug and as you can tell I need a bedskirt. No one likes to look at a box spring... Remember I sleep here and I don't have a degree in photography (I have a little Kodak) so the pictures not perfect and neither is the room. I actually use the Jergens every night(and morning - keep moisturized!) and I always have to have a water glass (or two) beside my bed. I don't iron my sheets 'cause the kids jump on them too. I don't like things matchy-matchy either - just simple. I'm like that...

This is my husbands night stand (notice the water glass). The basket holds the phone, change from his pocket and a pen. The brown bin underneath holds all his other junk (magazines, magazines, and the other odd articles he might have). The photo above is a copy of our wedding invitation a friend had framed for us when we got married. It's yellowed and looks a bit 'off' but we can't pitch it - you know why...

Groceries.

2011-04-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be busy making muffins, breakfast burritos, cookies, granola and a whole lot more. I didn't buy cereal again today. It really does make for a bit more work for me. In fact, I'm not entirely sure why I think not buying cereal makes a big difference. I've obviously got it on the brain and I'm not letting go.

I stuck to my list today - so far so good. Hopefully I've got enough there to keep everyone full and not whining about the lack of granola bars and snacks; by "everyone", I mean me... The total food expenditure for today was $104.34. Without a doubt fresh food is far more expensive than frozen and snack food - and the kids tend to eat more of it. I swear my boys will have the two bags of apples and all those bananas gone by Friday! Drives me nuts.

As a side note: I'm looking for a good Masala Curry Sauce recipe. Anyone out there have one?

Edit: I have since made these muffins from Smitten Kitchen. I haven't tasted them but they look exactly like the picture - so YUM! Also from Smitten Kitchen, these lovely looking peanut butter cookies of which I've already eaten 3. I'm not a big fan (3 and I don't really like them. what if I did?) they're a little dry and bland. I think I'm more partial to the sugar/butter laden ones that stick to the top of your mouth. Lastly, I also whipped up a batch of these chocolate breakfast muffins. TO DIE FOR! And not just for breakfast - especially if you add a little oat bran, flax seeds and walnuts - then they taste just like brownies! For an extra special treat, don't sprinkle with sugar at the end... instead... wait for it... use a sprinkling of coarse sea salt on the top of each. Oh, yes, yes, I did....

Before I forget.

2011-04-17T16:18:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post what I plan on making for dinner this week - you know, before I forget... Dinner planning is one of my hardest jobs - really. Making a meal that four different people will like isn't as easy as it sounds. Some days I just stand and stare at my fridge hoping and praying that a meal will just jump out at me. Usually it doesn't and I end up getting all frazzled and falling to pieces. This is my life. It's not pretty.

If I'm lucky (like this week) I make a list of meals I can create from the stuff in my kitchen - sometimes I need help from the grocery store but hopefully, it's very little. Not only does this keep my on budget and/or keep me from becoming clinically insane (sort of) it also helps me use up some of the articles that have been taking up space - articles I buy because I become inspired by a certain recipe (that I later lose and still end up with 3 bottles of tumeric in my cupboard...). Here we go:

Sunday (tonight): Pulled pork on a bun with ranch potatoes and salad.

Monday: BBQ pork buns (meat done!) and garlic steamed broccoli.

Tuesday: Pork with rice and snowpeas and broccoli.

Wednesday: Chickpeas, peas and potatoes in curry sauce served over brown rice.

Thursday: Beef and rice balls in tomato sauce (I add grated veggies to the meatballs).

Friday: Baked fish with potato gratin and corn on the side. This will probably not pass with the kids - life isn't that simple but Mr. A will eat it happily.

Water parks

2011-04-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

Water parks never seem like a good idea. EVER! The thought of a bunch of kids running around, falling, maybe even peeing in the pool (maybe?) makes me shutter. I like kids but I'm not a big fan of noise and well, 'bunches' of kids. Yet every time we go to a water park I think life is freakin' awesome. My kids always have a blast. They're worn out by the time we're done and I'm calm, cool and collected. It makes no sense what-so-ever!

So this was how we ended our Spring Break. There's many a water park within easy driving distance from our front door - we chose just one. We stayed the night and made a whole 'family getaway' out of it. We even brought the dog! We ate supper at the bar, swam for hours and finished the evening watching the Blue Jackets on t.v. It turned out to be the perfect ending - and that was an almost exact quote from the little people.

To do lists and other things I don't want to do.

2011-04-13T12:29:00.000-07:00

The stairs still look like this. There's more dust bunnies in the corners, piles of kids crap on the second stair and maybe a dint or two from Mr.E throwing a ball up and down "cause it goes faster now" but basically, I've done nothing.
I still have to caulk in all the gaps on the fireplace room floor. Yep, it's been a year. I also have to prime and paint the molding. Whatever...
I'd like to make pillow covers for the pillows that came with the green couches we bought. I HATE the pillows but for some reason I also think it's ludicrous to throw them out and just go buy new ones. Me and my stupid reasoning make absolutely no sense at all. None.
I collected old maps from neighbours and friends in the fall in hopes that I would paint the downstairs bathroom and cover one wall with the maps. Haven't done it yet. Fall is long gone. Stupid fall.
It's spring here. That's a good thing (though not if you're the bathroom). The sun is shining and the birds are singing and I'm reminded that I really need to get my butthogs out to the garden and clean up all the leaves and 'stuff' because plants are starting to grow. I have one tulip that has actually bloomed. I think it's a little premature but who am I?
Our garage door decided it no longer wants to be attached to the garage. Add that to "The list of things that need to be fixed" (the basement leaking might be at the top but really, it's such a long list it really is hard to tell which is more important). This isn't necessarily on my 'to do' list but it's on someone's - I think it's safe to assume it's on mine I suppose.
I have to do laundry. I hate doing laundry. I think I might just be feeling a bit whiny. Maybe just a little? Darn it. I'm going to get a glass of wine now. Did you read all the way to this? Wow. Go make your own list. Pffflllt.

Mornings.

2011-04-07T05:58:00.001-07:00

I turn on the kettle. Put the tea bags into pot. It's missing a lid - for a few years now. I'll find a new one eventually but not a new pot. I love my little Brown Betty.

I'll have a scoop (or a cup) of date square - made with garbanzo flour and flax seed and a mixture of fruit, not just dates...

Then I'll probably have one of these muffins - tropical (almonds, coconut and dates). So yummy. I'm all about the carbs.

Spring is up and shining brightly (today) even if the temperatures haven't yet warmed up enough for me to put away my winter jacket. I love staring at the flowers while drinking my tea. It's calming especially when it sounds like the Indianapolis 500 is happening behind me...

These guys are usually hanging out in the fruit tree. Can you see the squirrel? He saw me! And he was taunting Putty. It's an ongoing game that they play.

Balloons and Streamers.

2011-04-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Auntie Jane.

and while I'm at it; Happy Birthday to you too Mrs. Woods.

Soup.

2011-04-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

Homemade Beef broth (you may substitute whatever you regularly use). Bring to a boil. Add a bunch of stuff. For instance all of or a combination of: celery, carrots, onions, garlic, edamame, bok choy or other cabbage, corn, bamboo shoots (eww), or water chestnuts. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the veggies are blanched.
Crunch up some Ramen noodles (yes, the ones you get for $0.75 at the grocery store) in a bowl or several bowls. Two packs easily feeds 4 of us. Leave the seasonings out. I pitch them but if you use them for another purpose or really want to have all that sodium in your soup then add them. Cover with a plate and let sit for 3 minutes.

As in the movie 'Ponyo', I usually take these to the table and tell everyone to close their eyes. Once their eyes are closed I add 'specials' like ham, cooked egg, chopped green onions, bacon or crunchy noodles. Everyone in my family LOVES this. I do too.

Helping out

2011-04-02T07:09:00.000-07:00

A neat science experiment for the kids. It's as simple as putting whipping cream in an air tight container and shaking it. Shake, shake, shake (you want to say, "your booty" don't you?) Before you know it - BUTTER! We added a little sea salt at the end. And on a fresh bun it tastes fantastic.

Thank you Mrs. C for the idea!

Getting Ready.

2011-04-01T06:10:00.001-07:00

It's Spring Vacation here. I should be somewhere warm with a swim up bar and sand stuck in unmentionable places. But I am not. I'm trying to make the most of 'spring' in Ohio. Rain, snow, clouds, more rain... you get it....

I am so truly blessed to receive the King Arthur Flour catalogue in the mail (there might be a hint of sarcasm there) and low and behold they had a recipe for a lovely Spring Sweet Bread. What better way to start of the warm bathing suit weather than with sweet bread? It's divine with a cup of tea, lemon curd and a good book. So make a loaf or two and curl up. We've got sunshine today!

Note: the King Arthur version calls for a few things that I had to make substitutions for...

1. Buttery Sweet Dough Flavour = 1 tsp. vanilla, grated orange rind, a splash of real orange juice (from an actual orange). I'm sure it's nothing like the real thing but it tasted great just the same.

2. Tropical Fruit Blend = a cup of chopped candied fruits I had leftover from Christmas. I actually thought I was going to make a fruitcake this year. Oh how I make myself chuckle...

3. The topping = It calls for an awful big amount of sugar and flour here - and more butter. I made less, probably half of what they call for, and still had plenty.

Just Funny.

2011-03-31T18:02:00.000-07:00

This is what we do for giggles around here. Putty gets an almost empty jar of peanut butter and we proceed to laugh and laugh and laugh as he chases the container around the house. He finally settles in his bed - guarding the much loved jar. He growled at E for getting a little too close to the jar. E though it was hilarious and snapped the picture anyway. Putty can do no wrong in his eyes- the eyes of a six year old - *sigh*

The dog is happy and so are we.

Shopping Extravaganza

2011-03-30T16:27:00.000-07:00

This trip was a mild $73.94. Don't get excited... it gets worse...

I then remembered that I forgot to get olive oil (yes, there's some sort of oxymoron thing going in there). $19.74 later I have olive oil ($2.29) and a few other items I probably didn't need.... darn it. Not only that, but later I remembered that I had forgotten to buy Parmesan cheese and went to Trader Joe's to get some (again). Trader Joe's is like crack to me. CRACK! Yah, so $26.26 later (tater tots, scones, fondue, chicken bouillon, cheese, tortellini, ravioli and olives - extra large) I walked out of TJ's. Double darn. So, if you were keeping track or had a calculator handy, you'd realize that this weeks total- which started at a mere $73.94 - is now $119.94.

The boys are on break next week so I'm hoping aside from a gallon of milk and a bag of apples I won't have any other reason to spend money on food. Famous last words....

This weeks menu:

Monday: Pasta with broccoli, olive oil, garlic, pine nuts and zucchini served with bread and cheese. Thank goodness for bread and cheese...

Tuesday: Grilled cheese sandwiches, tater tots and yogurt. (see Mondays reference to cheese and bread)

Wednesday: Rice with tofu, baby corn, carrots, edamame and egg.

Thursday: Meatloaf with potatoes and squash.

Friday: Nachos - beef with green chilies, the leftover rice from Wednesday, carrots and onion. Cheese on top. Fresh salsa (tomatoes and onions chopped with olive oil, salt, pepper and lemon juice). Plain yogurt.

Saturday: Roast chicken and orzo with olives and shredded cheese and tomatoes.

Sunday: Chicken tortellini soup.

So when should I expect you?

Just another Day.

2011-03-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

I've spent the whole day (most of it anyway) organizing and rearranging and spring cleaning. I'm tired. I'm sick of it already and it looks like I've done nothing. I've finally put some of those writing things up that I bought 4 years ago, when I lived in Colorado. Yah, now you can find them everywhere and they cost 1/3 of what I paid. Darn it. I could have been the first on the wagon but instead I was the last. Happens all the time. I dusted my bedroom - which was kinda gross... ick.... lots and lots of dust... ewww....

What started all this cleaning - the sun? the fact that it's Saturday? an "I'm done with all this clutter" attitude? No. I was online the other day and happened upon Etsy. I've been on Etsy many times but often I get so overwhelmed with everything and I usually end up logging off. This time however, through some sort of maneuvering I happened upon a page by Happy Life Prints. I love their little prints. Simply Adorable!
I bought this one and another that says, "You make me happy when skies are grey". One day I may even frame them (frame not included) and put them on the wall. One day...

Restful

2011-03-25T08:44:00.000-07:00

A little 7 minute break in your day. Happy Friday.

The Stairs - an Ongoing Saga...

2011-03-23T07:44:00.000-07:00

They started out looking like this.

Then I got out my handy dandy tools and they started to look like this...

Now they look like this - dust bunnies and all... yah, next time I should sweep them before I take the pictures, sorry. I haven't yet decided what I'm going to do when I've finished sanding them. Google 'painted stairs' and see how many interesting things are out there - painting, wallpaper, letters, numbers, rugs, etc. And yet, so little time.

Nutella, Guinness and Cheesy Potatoes.

2011-03-21T07:25:00.001-07:00

Groceries are a headache. As with most chores, it takes longer than you think and is not nearly as gratifying as eating chocolate and watching bad television. Yet, it must be done as the little ones get hungry and start complaining about the utter lack of food in the house. The total today was $101.89. I don't think I need to rush out and purchase anything else so I think this is it for the week. I'm going to make bread this evening and gingerbread men this afternoon (thank you Jan Brett!). I've been informed that all anyone really wants for lunch is a sandwich. So you'll notice Nutella (for E's banana & nutella wraps), Muenster cheese and ham (for Mr. A and S's wraps with lettuce and tomatoes). And what's for me? See those Shandy's in the back? ALLLLLL MINNNEEE! Mr. A gave up beer for Lent (ha ha ha)!
Though when you put Guinness in cake it doesn't count. That's what I've been told and who am I to argue? This was out dessert for St. Patty's day. The recipe can be found here and here, in case you want the original or just want to read Nigella's food porn. Seriously, if ever you need a fix this lady has it wrapped up.
And St. Patty's is never complete without some sort of potato concoction. This one is boiled, then baked, potatoes topped with tomatoes, ham, bacon, onions, Irish cheese and plain yogurt. TO DIE FOR! I could eat a big ass bowl of this and still come away wanting more. There's just something about potatoes and cheese that makes me want to melt (there's a pun there somewhere). Throw on some bacon and it's heaven! Oh, and in case you doubted it, I did have myself a Guinness on Thursday. How could you not?

Pancakes...

2011-03-08T16:05:00.000-08:00

Thank you Ms. Robin for the Corn Pancake recipe. I had them for lunch and for dinner - with your salsa and shredded cheese. I am one happy camper! It's Pancake Tuesday at our house. Mardi Gras for the rest of you.... I absolutely love Pancake Tuesday. I eat and eat and practically burst at the seams. It's lovely. I think if everyone ate breakfast for supper at least once or twice a week we'd all be a lot happier. Just sayin'. (Oh, and a hug or two couldn't hurt.)

In case you haven't connected Pancake Tuesday with Lent yet, let me remind you that tomorrow is the beginning of Lent. Ash Wednesday. The last couple of years I've tried to give up chocolate. It's harder than it sounds. I'm not always successful. I think last year I accidentally popped a truffle into my mouth only to expel it almost at once. It was a sad waste of a truffle. And it's almost impossible to cut chocolate out completely - try going to Starbucks and ordering a coffee without chocolate in it. It was alright when I was in Colorado as my local barista gave up chocolate too and knew exactly what type of Frou-Frou coffee I could have... *sigh* I miss her....

This year I've decided to go a little bit riskier. Take a deep breath. Sit down.... Alright, I've decided to give up coffee all together. I binged today and bought two large coffees. I might make myself a coffee before I go to sleep tonight. I will miss it incredibly. I reckon I'm going to be a might bit of a bi-yach this week. Warning to those who might be living in the same house as me, see me at pick-up, walking innocently on the street, etc. The headaches are going to be awful. I'm really hoping that by next week I'll feel like a new woman. Maybe a mad woman but a new woman just the same. I'm off to brew a cup. Just thinking about it makes me get the shakes. Wish me luck!

The husband and the kids have gone for a walk. Can you tell I was madly typing, trying to get this all done before they got home? Sheesh...

No time for that.

2011-03-02T03:38:00.000-08:00

I do realize that it is now Wednesday and I haven't posted my Monday shopping receipt. I apologize. I hang my head in shame (I've been doing that a lot lately). Here's the thing, I didn't take a picture and there might be a few items that I'm not sure I want you to know about (by 'you' I mean the people who 'happen' upon this blog). So, if you must know. If you're chomping on the bit and just can't go another day without knowing how much I spent on things I didn't really need, the total was $73.31. But I did by wine and chips at World Market not 24 hours later and that was 30 bucks. There, that's done, lets move on shall we?

The reason I've been busy is because I'm starting that Spring Cleaning thing. The sun was shining and the birds were twittering and I got my butt off the couch! An amazing thing on its own no? I've also started doing the little things I had put off - getting a lamp for the living room, hanging pictures, vacuuming... One step at a time. I made headway yesterday and aside from a coffee table (highly overrated right?) and the molding that we keep saying we're going to do, I think I've finished with the living room. Today I'm going to tackle the carpet on the stairs. It's an irritating job. It involves removing staples and nails from wood. Blech.

Oh, and the trees are starting to bud here. I woke to a booger nose. You're excited to know that aren't you? Last year was perhaps the worst allergies I've EVER had. I'm not over estimating either. It was HORRIBLE! I even stopped drinking for a while and thought about locking myself in a bubble. I'm going to start with the allergy medicine now in hopes I nip this is the bud (no pun intended). Say a prayer for me.

Dog Bones and Icing.

2011-02-25T12:24:00.000-08:00

BRACE YOURSELF!

This morning my son asked me what a Twinkie was. It's true. I hang my head in shame. He probably isn't aware of the names of any of the Hostess group. As a child of the 70's/80's, I feel like I have failed as a parent. I'm going to go out on a limb and say he doesn't know what orange pop (soda) tastes like either. You're disappointed in me aren't you?

Well, get over it! I've rectified the situation and all is well with the universe. While I didn't go out and buy a bunch of shortening based pastries, I did break out the butter and find myself a delicious little cake that I think you'd agree is a wonderful (if not better) substitute. The cake is super easy and the icing even easier - with time and perseverance. It tastes amazing. Oh, and yes, I cut the cake out into nice little dog bone shapes and filled them with the icing. Cute right?

Boy Crafts.

2011-02-17T12:39:00.000-08:00

No pink fuzzy things around here! If you're a boy or have a boy living with or near you than might I recommend you buy Creationary. It's fun for the whole family and you can even drink beer while you play it - not that I would do that but some of you might.

The above photo is one of the 'creations' or as I like to call it "The Subtle Hint my son gave me while playing Creationary". It's the Legoland sign from California. Mr. A didn't even know there was such a thing. How that has escaped him for this long is beside me but I think he might be in denial. Just an FYI they're opening a Legoland in Tampa, FL in October. I wonder if we'll be walking under that sign soon...

Not quite Monday post.

2011-02-16T08:36:00.000-08:00

These were some of the bags. I usually line them up on the counter to make me feel good about how many bags there are. You know 'bang for your buck' and all that. This week they didn't all fit on the counter - and that's not just because there's so many other items there (like dishes).... really....
Picture one. Yes, there's more than one this week. My cupboards were pretty bare. I'm really hoping next week is just a milk and egg week but I think we all know better. The kids just won't stop eating! I'm not sure what it is with kids, I mean, I know they're growing and learning and incredibly active but do they really need that much food?
Here's the produce. Look, I even bought the cheap toilet paper this week. There's also no wine or beer or any other type of alcoholic beverages. I may have to rectify that. The box O' wine that I bought last week is gone. In my defense it was only 4 bottles. That's really nothing for a professional like myself.

And now, I just know you're dying of suspense... drumroll.... this weeks grocery bill was a WHOPPING $182.70! I may have to start selling stuff. I'm already out of pears and the apples are almost gone. It's like those kids have never seen food before. Little scavengers.

We bid you Adieu.

2011-02-10T13:36:00.000-08:00

We wanted to take you to The True North Strong and Free (ie. Canada) but you came 3 days too late. (To the people in this photo: I don't know you. I didn't ask if you wanted to be in my photo. The fact that you were wearing hockey gear and watching curling made me miss home. Now you will forever be my reminder of what it's like to be in a Canadian bar on a Saturday morning. Thank you.)
So instead we stuck you to a collage of license plates in the shape of the state of Ohio. (Can you find her?)
We used you to record the temperatures - which have since plummeted a whopping 33 degrees! There could be a direct correlation between the two. We may never know...
But then we were nice and we took you to see the seahorses at the Columbus Aquarium. They were sleeping so we had to be very quiet; as if we were hunting rabbits. We wouldn't really hunt rabbits because I suspect you might be a vegetarian.
When we were at the Aquarium we also saw the sharks. They weren't very scary and you didn't have to hold our hands. I think you may just have been trying to be brave.

Now you're in an envelope on your way back to Colorado. We hope you have a good trip and meet other 'flats' along the way. Say an extra special "Hello" to all the kids you'll get to meet when you get where you're going. And if you could, can you please give Ms. A a kiss for us and tell her we were happy she thought about us? We think about her and her family A LOT!

Not-so Wacky Wednesday.

2011-02-09T05:47:00.000-08:00

When Mr. E turned 6 (only a month ago - oh, how time flies) we bought 1/2 dozen cupcakes from our new local cupcake store, Blue Frost Cupcakes. Although it pained me greatly to spend $13.00 on 6 cupcakes, I have to say that it was well worth it. They aren't very big but the cake is moist and the icing is delicious. I believe cake is just a 'extra' so it's always wonderful to find an icing that doesn't coat your teeth. You know what I'm talkin' about.
Speaking of coating your teeth, don't you just love gravy? Mmm... soo salty and yummy. In Canada we usually eat our french fries with gravy. Not a big deal just a cultural difference I suppose but one that I've gotten used to and even after being in the states for almost 6 years it's still one I can't get over. My friends love it when I'm in a restaurant and get into a long discussion with the waiter over whether they have gravy to dip my fries into and I sometimes wonder if they think I'm just making this stuff up. Note: sometimes I am... This time I'm not.

So when we went to Ontario a couple of weeks ago we went to our old university hang out, Morty's. I love this place. No doubt about it, they have the best wings EVER. Anyway, on the menu (pictured above) they have gravy listed right next to the french fries! And yes, I ordered them and ate every last bite. It's good gravy.

Once upon a Sales Receipt...

2011-02-08T09:38:00.000-08:00

Way too many cans of tomatoes and one too many bags of Tortillas. But all in all a pretty good trip to the grocery store - $108.72. I got everything on my list - aside from toilet paper, dishwasher liquid and dish soap (those I got from Target and I had coupons and a gift certificate). I think I could probably stop buying those Dannon drinkables - yah, that's not going to happen... At some point convenience has to come into play. I used the eggs and the tortillas to make our breakfast burritos! Thanks Robin - I think I'm addicted to them...
You may have noticed the box O' wine in the first picture and here it is even bigger! I hadn't tried this before and I'm feeling like I'm saving the environment just by buying it (made with recycled materials...). It's even good. That's an added bonus! Not listed in either pictures is the 12 Blue Light my husband has already broken into. Beer doesn't last long in our house. If you've got a recommendation for a good cheap beer I'd love for you to share it.

Do you have one of these?

2011-02-03T05:20:00.000-08:00

It's a great dad. Not a bad commercial either...

- Note: this was originally posted by a friend on facebook. -

In case you were wondering...

2011-02-01T06:44:00.001-08:00

We have a visitor! Her name is Flat Anna. She's hoping to go home tomorrow but with the ice storm I'm afraid it might not be possible. We ventured outside (see picture above) but we thought the tree encased in ice was a good sign that we should head back in and sit around for the rest of the day. I say we're brilliant. I think she's having a good time visiting, seeing the sights and catching up on back episodes of True Blood. Hope you're having a good day too.
Oh, and we ate a few cookies and the odd cupcake (or 6). Sorry we didn't share....

Monday. Blech.

2011-01-31T10:25:00.001-08:00

Today was pay bills day. I hate pay bills day. It sucks. I do it once a month (we only get one check a month anyway) and that day is usually the one day I'm in a really crappy mood. Today was a little different however; today was also grocery day. So, I paid bills in the morning and then went on my grumpy ass way to buy the weeks worth.

And you know what happened? I put A LOT of stuff back on the shelf or just walked right by it. Cookies? No. Cereal? No. Snacks for the boys? No. It was great - almost liberating. With the Christmas break (yes, it's almost February but it takes me a long time to break a trend) I got out of the habit of making things for the boys. Oh, sure I'd make the odd batch of granola and I still make tons of meals at home - from scratch (no boxes are usually hurt/opened) but I was relying on granola bars or store bought cookies as snacks for my kids. I even purchased the ol' 4/$10 cereal specials. I shake my head at myself.

Now, first, let me say that there's nothing wrong with that per se but I notice a difference in my mood (as with lack of exercise) and the moods of my children - Mr. S is especially susceptible to a sugar and processed foods - ie. he gets down right ignorant. With more grains, real fruits and veggies and less processed food we're all completely different people. I'm sure there's some study somewhere that backs me up... I'm not getting on a high horse believe you me, last night we ordered in pizza! (Note: Papa John's has a special 2/$20, Large and it's not bad - not great - but not bad)

And with that I'm happy to report that my grocery bill was only $67.90 today. Don't get too excited for me - I forgot sugar. Crap. That's a good $5.00 right there. I've got quite a bit of stuff sitting in the pantry as well (dried fruit, different flours, dried beans, etc). Right now I've got cookies baking, cupcakes cooling, a mixed fruit filling ready for date squares and sweet bread ready for the oven. That should last until the kids get home and eat them all.... Darn kids.

Leather Pants & Feathered Hair.

2011-01-26T17:01:00.000-08:00

How do you feel knowing this is Ricky Gervais? Did you watch the tail-end of Inside Edition? This is how they ended the show. Quite frankly, they didn't give us enough and so of course, I had to google it... I think he's much better suited for hosting the Golden Globes don't you?

Someone's a little Green

2011-01-26T09:05:00.000-08:00

Thank you Apple Photo Booth for supplying my family with hours of fun... really, hours...

That nasty flu-bug has made it's way into my house. The one person that got the shot (above) is Mr.E. Guess who's doing his best Exorcist impression all morning? Luckily he didn't have split pea soup for dinner last night or I'd be high-tailing it out of my house! Kidding....

Since I'm not going anywhere today I've been catching up with my blog reading and surfing and I've found a billion ideas and items that I could do/want. If you haven't been over to School House Electric in a while might I suggest you do? The bare bulbs are enough to send me swooning. And have you checked out Leah's apartment? I WANT those brick walls!!! But I'd settle for that television hutch. How awesome is that?!

My surfing led me to Graphics Fairy and I do believe I'm going to make me a few new pillows soon (like maybe next year) or wouldn't it be lovely to blow up that Birds Nest (Jan25/11) and put it on a duvet cover? So many ideas, so little energy.

The child is calling... he wants lunch. *sigh*

Mondays are back... for now.

2011-01-24T13:52:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that for the last 3 weeks I've actually taken pictures to post? Now they're lost in cyberland forever... well, they're lost on my computer forever... same thing-ish.

Above is the groceries for this week. I had a list and everything. I'm sad to say it totalled $112.52. Very, very sorry. I was hoping it would be smaller but alas, it never seems to be. You'll notice there's an awful lot of frozen Lean Dinners in there - not for me - for Mr. A. There have been far too many mornings when there's been nothing for him to take in his lunch and I'm hoping this will solve that. They're awful. But he'll eat anything (a blessing for me) and even better if it's warm and has cheese on it. These have cheese and their microwavable. And they were 81 cents each. Really. Cheaper than a freakin' apple. I still have to get some laundry detergent and probably another container of milk.... just an FYI...

For dinner this week you'll notice there's a roasting chicken (tuesday), the broccoli is for baked potatoes (wednesday), more of the chicken will be used on thursday for white bean, chicken chili and then friday will be wrapped up with some pancakes made using that lovely cauliflower you see on the left. Tonight is going to be sandwiches (the kids are going to be soooo happy) with veggies on the side or if I'm feeling extra energetic (probably not) I'll throw some soup on the stove. All in all a healthy week I suppose and with any luck some of this stuff will be leftover so next weeks shopping receipt will be a tiny bit smaller.

New Burger Recipe.

2011-01-20T15:45:00.000-08:00

Sorry, I didn't take a picture of it but trust me, it even looks good! I was amazed at how well it turned out and by how fast my kids inhaled them. Yes, that's right, I said inhaled. Even my picky eater, Mr. S. God love him, he'll eat anything he can smother in condiments.

I had some leftover turkey (from the freezer) but not really enough to make anything with and I couldn't use it to just make stuffing and turkey burgers - after the holidays I have to say I'm done with stuffing and plain turkey! So, I added some white kidney beans and the results were wonderful. Don't tell my kids!

The Recipe for Turkey & Bean burgers:

1. Shred and slice your turkey. I had about a 3/4 cup.

2. Finely chop a stalk of celery. If you have some green onions you could add them too. I didn't.

3. Throw in 1/2 cup of bread crumbs or cracker crumbs, 2 eggs, salt & pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder and 1/2 tsp of basil and half a roasted red pepper.

4. Now the fun part, after draining and rinsing your can of beans, squish them in your hands and add them to your mixture. Mix well.

5. Shape into patties. Heat some oil in a pan. To add some crunch to you burger, sprinkle some cornmeal on each side.

6. Cook over medium heat for about 8 minutes or until each side is brown and the burger is cooked through. Top with cheese, lettuce and tomatoes!

What it sounds like when my husband talks.

2011-01-13T14:28:00.000-08:00

God love him and every other hockey loving man out there... I suspect this is what it sounds when they talk to each other.

Not so long ago, I'd get little comments made to me (yes, by Mr. A) about my blog reading. Now, it's hockey season and there's one too many hockey blogs out there. The "Bookmark" section of my computer is riddled with them. And most nights I've lost my husband to them...

Number 6.

2011-01-11T04:57:00.000-08:00

Mr. E is celebrating his 6th birthday today. He's a growing concern. He's a pain in my butthoggs. And by golly, I love this little brat more than words will allow me to express.

Zoom Zoom

2011-01-02T13:46:00.000-08:00

This is sitting in my driveway and not because we have visitors...

Yep, we finally did it! For the last couple of years (yes, that's an 's' on the end of that) we have been searching for a vehicle. Neither Mr. A or I are especially particular about what type of car we should have and even when choosing this one I was more on the "I'm tired of driving you all around" camp. I'm pretty sure Mr. A was smitten with this as it became his primary focus and then, "voila" we had one. So far we like it (it's been two days). It goes. It has heated seats which is awesome - I can not stress how much I LOVE this feature. And though it really is no bigger than the protege it does seem to have a lot less miles on it and the door isn't falling off... yet...

So that's it. I've got a big ol' loan and I'll be watching my pennies but my hubby is happy and the kids think they're driving in a rocket ship. And me? I'm just glad my chauffeur days are getting shorter. I know, I've just jinxed myself....

Day 12: White Christmas (We'll follow the old man)

2010-12-25T19:36:00.000-08:00

The Grasshopper Martini. I'd like to preface this story by saying that in Ontario you only have to be 19 to drink...

When I was younger it was just my mom and I home for Christmas. My parents were divorced and my brothers were much older than I and had already left home. On Christmas Eve the two of us would make up a platter of munchies, mix ourselves grasshoppers and sit down to watch White Christmas. Till this day "We'll follow the old man..." brings a tear to my eye (alright, I sob).

The Grasshopper we had last night was pretty darn good though slightly different than I'd had before. In the recipe above, they added cream - we added ice cream and milk. I prefer the 'shake' version but the one we had last night was good enough to remind me of sitting next to my mom watching Bing and Danny sing.

Merry Christmas! Hope you have a White one.

Day 11: 'tis Christmas Eve.

2010-12-24T17:42:00.000-08:00

Break out the holly and in our case, the shovel, it's Christmas Eve. Hopefully your kiddos are snug in their beds and you're having much needed alone time (or busy wrapping...). To put you in the mood it's time to make an Eggnog Martini. Ah, a true Christmas tradition - or one that soon will be. To make: put into your shaker an ounce of each: vanilla vodka, amaretto, eggnog, and ice and shake baby, shake.

Hugs and Kisses to all of you out there. Have a wonderful evening. And just in case you like to keep track of the man in the red suit (I'm not talking about the RCMP) check out this site.

Food Porn.

2010-12-23T16:24:00.000-08:00

I happened upon this site and I just had to share. I apologize. If you'd like to make any of the items shown on any one of the pages I would be more than happy to help you eat it.

Day 10: Mouthwash or Something slightly better?

2010-12-23T09:06:00.000-08:00

Hammonds Candy Canes. I hear they are divine. I think I saw them on the Food Network at some point but maybe not... They look good, they sound good (with names like all natural butterscotch and cabernet candy cane...) and so you'd think it would be a good idea for a martini. Honestly, as one who's not big on the whole peppermint idea in the first place, I should have known a Candy Cane Martini wasn't the drink for me.

It's easy peasey to make: vanilla vodka, chocolate vodka (Godiva, mmmm) and peppermint schnapps. Schnapps in general are yummy but alas, not like this. It was all a little strong quite frankly (yes, this is coming from me). I bet if Mr. A had used one of the recipes listed on google (there's got to be a hundred of the things) perhaps it would have turned out differently. Perhaps if he had used the creamy liqueur type Godiva and not the vodka Godiva it would have won me over. But he didn't. And so I bid this drink Adieu. Hope you have better luck.

Day 9: Dedicated to these guys.

2010-12-22T14:12:00.000-08:00

They make me laugh - like out loud, with stuff spewing and everything. With the Crantini you can practice your Ninja Kick and fill up on antioxidants at the same time. It's like a miracle drink or something. So by drinking one of these you're just looking out for your health. You're like, being nutritious. Yah, go with that.... Only 3 more days to go.

Recipe (for those of you too lazy to click on the link... you know who you are Karyn) though this isn't the exact recipe you'll find. Mr A. had to do a bit of improvising:

1 1/2 oz Vodka
1/2 oz Triple Sec
1/2 oz Lillet
4 oz Cranberry Pomegranate Concentrate (the stuff in the freezer section)

Add all the ingredients in a martini shaker - no need for ice 'cause you were smart and used the frozen concentrate. Then shake, pour into martini glass and if you'd like, add a few cranberries to complete the drink. The recipe above said you should soak the cranberries in vodka first and I think you should listen to them 'cause they know what they're talking about. I think they're professionals.

Day 8: My favourite so far...

2010-12-21T06:28:00.000-08:00

Isn't this the cutest? It's even better in person. Might I suggest you run out and buy a whole bunch and celebrate the festivities in style? Each is only $3.49 and they are yummy on their own but even better in a Flirtini.

Day 7: Lime: not just for Margaritas.

2010-12-20T12:25:00.000-08:00

It's cold here... cold, cold, cold. And I'm dreaming of a nice beach in Mexico. Thus, we're taking a little detour on the list and creating something that reminds me of the aforementioned beach. Day 7 is a Lime-tini. Mmmm... This one goes down faster than water in a desert! I think you could make it into a highball by adding some soda and crushed ice and I'm sure that will be a often-seen drink on the Oasis this summer. Mr. A mixed this one up and he changed the recipe from the one posted on the Smirnoff site. His is as follows:

1.5 oz vodka (not lime - just regular)

1.5 oz Roses lime juice

add to a shaker with ice, shake and strain. Enjoy!

Day 6: Breakfast Coffee.

2010-12-18T17:48:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but my day does not officially start until I've had my first cup of coffee. While it's brewing I thank God for it - literally! And if for some reason I don't get that oh, so delicious, first cup of coffee I'll have a headache by noon. And I'm cranky as all heck by two. The thing is I always seem to brew too much coffee (yes, there is such a thing). I can drink one cup, maybe two, three is the max and yet, for some reason there is always some left over. I don't know if I'm hoping for the cast and crew of The Wizard of Oz to show up or what, but the pot is almost never empty.

And what to do with all that leftover coffee? Well, I know some people throw it out around noon thinking they won't drink it and I'll love to say that I'm one of those people but you just never know if you'll want a cup of cold coffee around four... No one ever does UNTIL - dun, dun, dun - The Coffee Martini! Yippee. It's cheapskates dream. Okay, that's not entirely true. The recipe calls for fresh brewed Espresso but I tried it with 1/2 day old coffee and it was damn good. Cost effective too! And I didn't add the beans. In truth I didn't want to risk the choking thing. It would have been a real bummer. However, if you happened to go to The Human Bean and order a coffee (might I recommend anything without chocolate - tell them I sent you...), you could always save the chocolate covered bean for your nightly martini... Two birds, one stone...

Day 5: 007, The Right One.

2010-12-17T03:03:00.001-08:00

Sometimes it just makes sense to be drinking while watching reruns of Two and a Half Men. So thankfully, we revisited the 007 Vesper and all was quite merry. This martini was Mr. A's favourite. It's also the one that contains the least amount of 'fru fru' alcohol. But it's still good and a great sipping drink. You can really taste the Lillet so if you haven't got any in the house run out and grab some to make this drink. It's well worth the eight dollars.

Day 4: Keeping the Vanilla in Christmas.

2010-12-14T12:20:00.000-08:00

Yes, by now we're all growing a little tired of vanilla vodka but I'm happy to say I'm completely out. PHEW! The little bit I had left was enough to make a Vanilla Alexander Martini. I don't think I've ever purchased vanilla vodka, however, I think I would just to make this drink. It' s a version of the chocolate martini we had on Day 1 but the shaved chocolate and cream just make it dreamy. This is by far my favourite yet. It's like hot cocoa on a cold winters day... with a shot of something special.

Recipe:

1 oz. vanilla vodka (even better if you've made it yourself...)

1 oz. creme de cacao

1 oz. cream (use cream - you deserve it)

shaved chocolate (Again, use the good stuff. You only need a small amount.)

Fill a shaker with ice. Add vodka, creme, and cream. Shake until well mixed. Strain into glasses and top with shredded chocolate. I bet it would taste even better with melted chocolate around the rim. Doesn't everything? I'm all about extravagance this year.

Day 3: Cinnamon Warmth.

2010-12-13T13:17:00.000-08:00

It's gotten a might bit chilly out there lately and I've been feeling the need to keep warm. Now usually that means making a cup of tea, grabbing a good book and snuggling up on the couch with a quilt. Well, I do believe we've taken that one step further with the Chai Tea Martini.

I've got a few tea bags hanging around the house... The hardest thing about this martini is waiting for the tea to get cold. I advise being prepared by having the tea already to go. Hopefully you're a pot tea maker and have some sitting in there from this morning. If not, brew the tea, let it steep for an hour or so and then whip yourself up a Day 3 drink. This one won't let you down.

Recipe:

2 ounces vodka (use vanilla vodka if you've got it)

2 ounces cold chai tea

splash of milk (cream or half and half works too)

Place ice in a shaker. Add vodka & tea and shake. Strain into glasses and add the splash of milk (or cream). Quickly run a spoon through it - just to mix it in but not completely - it adds creamy depth to the drink. To kick it up just a notch, try rimming the lip of the glass with honey.... yeah, if that doesn't make you feel good you shouldn't be reading this blog.

Day 2: For the Chocolate Lovers.

2010-12-11T10:24:00.000-08:00

What could be better than a little Kiss? Why one surrounded by vodka and creme de cacao of course! A delightful little drink called, A Chocolate Martini! The recipe calls for just the two items however, if you happen to have vanilla vodka (like the one I made as vanilla extract some time ago) then I highly recommend using that instead. And don't forget the Kiss! A perfect drink for the chocolate lover in all of us. Yum.

12 Days of Christmas Martinis!

2010-12-10T12:36:00.000-08:00

Picture from www.martinilovers.com/007 - you can get the recipe from there as well.

I've decided that the Christmas season needs to be ushered in with cheer and extravagance. Since I was too cheap to go and buy the Lego Advent calendar and since by the time I finally thought it made sense to actually get one they were already sold out, I've decided to create my own countdown to Christmas....

How about 'The 12 Martini's of Christmas!'

And queue the intervention...

Day 1: A not-so 007 Martini. After watching Daniel Craig sport some short short I thought there was nothing classier than a martini. If said martini has a fancy ingredient like Lillet in it than it has to be good. Well, at least after the second sip/gulp. I'm guessing that it would be even better if Mr. A hadn't switched the amounts of vodka and gin but hey, maybe not. Not too worry I didn't throw it down the sink (phew). I drank the whole darn thing and by the end there was a very large smile on my face. This was such a freakin' fabulous idea. Sometimes, I'm just brilliant.

Straight No Chaser - 12 Days (original from 1998)

2010-12-07T16:56:00.000-08:00

It is not Christmas unless you've heard this song - well, in my house anyway. I'm allowed to blare it and everyone sings along. Hope you're finding someway to get into the season too.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-05T13:35:00.000-07:00

Doctor Who - with psychic papers and sonic screwdriver. I personally think he's even more handsome than David Tennant and for me, that's saying a LOT.

Ferb from Phineas and Ferb on Disney Channel. The green hair is really what captures you isn't it?

For the Lovely Mrs. Jules.

2010-11-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite pizza dough recipes is this one~it's adapted from The Complete Canadian Living Cookbook's Homemade Pizza Dough on page 248.

2 Cups all purpose flour (or a blend of garbanzo bean (1/2 cup) and all purpose (1 1/2 cups) I use the blend because the gbf gives a nuttier taste to the dough)

1 1/2 teaspoons quick rising yeast

3/4 teaspoons salt

3/4 cup hot water

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar (or honey works too)

In a measuring cup, mix water and sugar then add yeast. In a bowl, combine flour and salt and then gradually add in the oil. Add the water blend to the flour mixture. Mix to combine and then knead until dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit until double in size or until you're ready to make your pizza (sometimes hours later....). Roll out on a floured surface.

I can usually get two pizzas out of this (I roll pretty thinly). Preheat your pie stone with the oven and then when you're ready to bake your pizza sprinkle the stone with cornmeal. It adds a little more crunch to the dough.

Hope your little munchkins enjoy this Jules!

New Favourites!

2010-10-28T11:04:00.000-07:00

In case my love for Anthropologie hasn't been made previously (somewhere back in 2008 - I'm not looking for it...), I would just like to state now that I LOVE Anthropologie. Really. I'm not just saying that so Karyn won't be mad at me (or Rob... or Alex...). In fact, I have lust for almost every pair of boots currently posted on the website. The above ones in particular. I think they would look fabulous on me. Yes, now that I've thought about it a little bit more I'm sure of it.

And this cardigan would match those boots perfectly! I'd be stunning. I'd stop traffic - for good reasons, not because I was talking on my cell phone and not paying attention to the darn lights (I digress).... And while I was wearing those beautiful boots with the oh, so lovely cardigan I could lounge on my couch with a glass of The Prisoner in my hand and *sigh* at Benedict Cumberbatch in the new Sherlock Holmes series on PBS. *Sigh* What an absolutely perfect evening that would be. Now, if only I knew someone that worked for Athropologie that could get me those boots at a crazy ass discount... hmmm....

K - got ya smilin' yet?

A Challenge.

2010-10-14T13:20:00.001-07:00

While having a glass of wine with my neighbours last night (them, not me...) we had a small discussion on religion. *Gasping* It wasn't heated, no one came away with bruises and no ones feelings were hurt (I think... I hope - sometimes I'm an ass and don't realize it - REALLY). But a great topic was mentioned and one that I think is often overlooked (by me...).

In the sermon at their church on Sunday the minister asked them to try be grateful every day for something - 3 things in particular. One glitch: you should try to find something great in a situation that may not have been perfect. It's simple but not always easy. In fact, yesterday I was having quite a hard time thinking of just one thing and though I lead a pretty good life it's not always perfect. I probably made it far harder on myself as I didn't want it too be too easy... I thought that when you're thinking of being grateful you shouldn't pick something tangible (I'm so grateful for my lovely dog and his beautiful collar from Target), it shouldn't be something moronic (I'm grateful for my new vase from Anthropologie) and it shouldn't be something totally freakin' obvious (I'm grateful for my Lexus). Note: I don't have any of this except for the dog with the collar from Target... Instead, try to really test yourself. For instance, here's one of mine:

The other day I dropped A. off at work. As I'm driving, I come to an intersection and I have a green light (sound familiar?) and yet, there's someone (bi-yach) walking across the street in front of me. As I'm a calm and totally in control person, I quietly yell (loud enough for everyone in a 5 mile radius to hear), "FOR THE LOVE OF GOD I HAVE THE GREEN LIGHT, NOT YOU!" Nothing big right? Except all my windows were rolled down and a university kid is on his bike right beside me. He burst out laughing. True (hangs head in shame). He could have looked at me in dismay but nope, he was chuckling like crazy... and it made me smile. I'm grateful he was there - for so many reasons. Can you imagine if he wasn't?

Canadian Thanksgiving...

2010-10-12T12:41:00.000-07:00

Or better yet, "What I did with all that food in my fridge!".

Yes, as another Thanksgiving comes and goes I am again faced with the dilemma of how to transform the leftovers into something fabulous... something that my family will eat... Now, I'm blessed with fairly good eaters and I'm not complaining but that still doesn't stop them from shouting, "Ick, what IS that?" when the plates hit the table. And I think they are on to me - you know, with my 'hiding' of food. Darn kids. Darn husband.

So, I took matters into my hands and tried my best to come up with something edible. I think you'll agree that it's all going to be quite yummy.

1. Mashed Potates: I played around with Robins recipe for Breakfast burritos and now I've got many a burrito in my freezer. Since my mashed potatoes already contain cheese (yours don't?) I just added them to some scrambled eggs, and canned chilies. Now, all I have to do is micro them for a couple of minutes in the morning and breakfast is done.

2. Acorn Squash: An easy one? Yes, I think it is. I whipped up some Pumpkin Spice Cookies. I thought about pumpkin bread or pumpkin pie or even just eating it all out of the dish but I thought this might be a better alternative. I made some changes - adding applesauce and maple syrup and cutting the sugar in half (way to much sugar in this). Since I make my squash with applesauce anyway it should be sweet enough . I'm not sure yet though as they are sitting on the counter patiently waiting to go into the oven.

3. The Chicken and Corn: Mixed with black beans, cheese, and salsa then rolled into a casserole with enchilada sauce and VOILA tonights dinner. Mmm... enchiladas. I think a Margarita is in order don't you?

4. The Stuffing: Nothing yet. I always get stumped here. I've seen recipes for bread souffle and stuffing patties with turkey (I think I made those last year) but nothing is jumping out at me just yet. Any ideas?

5. Homemade Cranberry Sauce: Easy enough to make and easy enough to use up. Cranberry muffins. This helps me out in the breakfast area as well. If you remember I'm trying to cut down on processed cereals (easier said than done) and thus, I'm always looking for easy and fast ways to feed the family. Since Cranberries were on sale last week - go look - I bought a few bags! I don't have a recipe yet but it's only a google away.

6. Broccoli: Soup. I used the carcass (awful word) to make stock and so a very, very yummy broccoli soup will be on the table tomorrow night. With the addition of some bannock (talked about all weekend by my little redhead, A. and now craved by me, T.) it should be a very nutritious and easy dinner.

An Oldie but Goodie.

2010-10-06T15:05:00.000-07:00

Pierogi pizza. This is what we had for dinner tonight - again. I can't help it. I LOVE it! I did expand on the idea, however; and added some pine nuts and Trader Joe's Tomato Salsa. Yes, it sounds gross but it works. Apparently, you can throw anything on home-made pizza crust, cover it with cheese, serve it with a cold beer and it tastes amazing. Try it. You'll find I'm right.

Anyway, whatever you're doing tonight I hope you have a good one and while you do imagine me eating popcorn at 'Easy A' and laughing my butthoggs off. Kisses.

If you've read facebook

2010-10-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

The Summer Croc. It's a favourite in our house. We all have a pair (or two...). How can you not? They are so versatile.

The winter croc (as it's known in our house). What I don't understand is that you've already mastered a perfect shoe... why mess with it? Frick.

Then please disregard this... I'm ranting again but in a different format so I feel it's legitimate.

Dear People at Crocs. If you're going to make winter crocs could you please (I beg of you) make them exactly like your summer crocs (ie. with the backstrap)? That way I don't have to reason with my son in the middle of the mall. Thank you for listening.

p.s. if you could do that before the snow flies that would be extra wonderful.

A Few Observations.

2010-09-30T14:55:00.000-07:00

A word of warning: I wrote these observations after spending way too much time in the car running from one errand to the other. None of which was for me. I'm selfish so just the fact that I didn't get anything out of it was enough to make me incredibly grumpy. And I haven't had wine/beer for a few days so that was just the cherry on the top. Also, I may not feel the same way tomorrow so don't hold it against me or do, whatever.... I still haven't had wine today...

1. You can't text and drive. Yes, I know you think you can but you can't. Even Oprah says you can't - it must be true.

2. To the guy in the green car: The 'tick, tick' sound you've been hearing for the last 6 miles is your turn signal. Frick. Turn it off already.

3. The big red octagon in front of you is a stop sign. Really, I'm not making this up. Generally, it means you have to stop. For those of you new to this concept, it means you have to use that pedal next to the one that makes you go. Yes, that's what that's for.

4. The big red light in the sky, you know, the one next to the pretty green and yellow one? Yah, that means you have to stop too...

5. You can't text and walk either. Especially you there in the black sweater - you definitely can't.

End of Part 1... I'm sure there's going to be a Part 2.

Only a day late...

2010-09-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

Alright, after much deliberation between my son and I the dinner menu for this week has been created (I really talk like this). I'm afraid there's nothing too fancy here but hopefully my family will eat fairly nutritiously without breaking the bank - which is a lot harder than it sounds...

Monday - Beef & Barley Soup...mmmm..... Luckily I made enough for me to enjoy a bowl last night around 8pm and for my husband to have for lunch today. Hurray for leftovers (you'll see more of this roast on wednesday).

Tuesday - Muffins (the homemade kitchen sink variety), cheese, apple and walnuts... and maybe a pretzel later...

Wednesday - Leftover roast (it was big) mixed with rice, corn and tomatoes and put in a wrap with cheese and yogurt! Surprisingly (?) this is one of my favourite things to eat.

Thursday - Baked chicken with salad, roast potatoes and squash.

Friday - White bean & chicken chili.

Saturday - Baked pasta with tomatoes and cheese served with salad and bread. This was voted on by the little people in the house. It's a really easy recipe of cooking your pasta then putting it in a oven ready dish, throwing in a can of tomatoes and some grated cheddar cheese. Put it in the oven until the cheese is all melty and voila! Insta dinner. An idea given to me by my dear Aunt Jane. Love that lady!

2010-09-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

Last weeks groceries.... a grand total of $119.69 and I had a gift card for $50.00! Yippee.. I went a little crazy - what you don't see in the photo is the 2 (yes 2) 12 packs of beer. Some things are justified!

This weeks bill came to $87.41. Those pumpkins are freakin' expensive (3.99 - yikes). I did go to Whole Foods today as well ($37.63) just to get coffee and go sampling with E! Problem was we both liked everything we tried. Darn samples.

It took me a week to get my computer up and running again. I could have used Mr. A's but I dislike (hate is such an ugly word) loading my grocery pictures onto his work computer. Nothing like giving a talk to a bunch of academics and having your wife's grocery list pop up! Not that it's ever happened or anything....

Has anyone else noticed that it's getting harder to keep the grocery bill down. I've found that things are getting a little more expensive lately. I'm not sure why that is (no rain? too much rain? too much oil being spilled...) but it's starting to irk me. Luckily the Kraft Caramels are the same price or else I'd be livid. It could also be that I'm having a hard time getting motivated to make items from scratch. Could it be the lack of large junks of time? 2 hour snippets every now and then just doesn't seem to cut it.

I haven't been buying wine lately either. Frick. I knew there was a reason I'm grumpy these days (no PMS has nothing to do with it). I know what your thinking, "Where's all that beer?" It's gone. One case was a belated gift for a friend and the other one can't be expected to last longer than a week. It's just unrealistic.

I seem to have a lot of questions this week. Just noticed that. Who has the answers? Tomorrow I'll give you a list of what's for dinner this week. As for now, I haven't made it up so I can't post it but I can tell you tonight is Beef & Barley soup night. I made a roast in the crock pot last night with a side of sweet potatoes and corn. The temperature is starting to drop and I have a feeling my crock pot is going to be extra useful this year!

Wanna go see the BJ's?

2010-09-19T04:30:00.000-07:00

Well, you can! For FREE. Oh, you just can't beat that. It's Blue Jackets training camp time. I'm going to bet most everyone in this city doesn't know that. But now you do. So head down to Nationwide Arena today and check out Gerald Boll doing his slam-bam-thank you-mam (he's currently my favourite BJ). Find out the practice times here. See you soon.

Freakin'!

2010-09-17T08:01:00.000-07:00

I was going to check how many times I used "Freakin" as my blog post title but thought it better that I didn't know. My darn computer keeps getting 'stuck' - for lack of better computer tech. lingo. I'm wishing that I lived closer to Robin (not that I don't wish for that often) but today it's cause I'd like Mr. K to come over and fix my computer for me. It's probably not all that technical and I bet it could be solved by throwing it from a 6 story building. And he'd do it for a bottle of fat tire (or maybe a six pack) 'cause he's good like that.

In the mean time I'm typing away at my hubby's Apple. I dislike this computer. I don't like the fake "click, click, blach" of the keys and I dislike all the little symbols at the bottom of the screen. What are those anyway?! I'm an old school PC gal. I wish this wasn't true but it is and because of that I will have computers that get virus' and get 'stuck'. Stupid things. And I'd like to believe that I could live without my computer, without the constant need to check facebook and hotmail and everyone's blogs but I can't do that either. Frick. It must be Friday.

It's White!

2010-09-16T12:56:00.000-07:00

Not a green card... an Employment Authorization Card. With an expiration date to boot. The other card should be here shortly or sometime before 2012....

Where'd you go?

2010-09-13T07:34:00.001-07:00

It took me awhile to find my groove again but I'm hoping it's here and we're back at it! So hold onto your coffee/tea/juice/wine or what have you and let's get started shall we?

It's MONDAY! That means it's shopping day and meal planning. I have to admit it's been a bit of a smorgasbord sort of summer and I'm done with hot dogs and chips and all the crap I ate. I haven't even been diligent about hitting the farmers market. I know, I'm shaking my head too... However that's all going to change now that I'm back at the blog and feel some sort of irrational responsibility/guilt.

And so, I am happy to report that today's groceries came to a grand total of $58.65. Now, I did forget my list for the week (remembered the coupons - phew) and so I've left off the buttermilk and hot sauce I was hoping to get. Bummer. Maybe next week...

There is a LOT of yogurt on the list - as per the norm I suppose - and a variety of different flours. See? I'm trying my best to stay on that healthy eating thing... Mrs. Ser, I hope you notice I found Graham flour, at Giant Eagle no less and it's relatively cheap - $4.39 a box. For those of you not used to buying "Organic" flours and/or "unusual" flours, they tend to be quite pricey but you get used to it and just try to look for the best deals - if there's any to be had.

Dinner this week is as follows:

Monday: Chicken Soup - we had the neighbours over for dinner on Saturday and I've got a boatload of shredded chicken left. I'd make tacos or something but I think my family is done with chicken sandwiches...

Tuesday: Lasagna. Mmmm.....

Wednesday: Tofu, broccoli and rice with peanut sauce.

Thursday: Goyza potstickers, broccoli with almonds and udon noodles. The potstickers and the noodles were bought last week - sorry for not being with it...

Friday: Baked potatoes with cheese sauce and tuna cakes. This is going to be a hard one to get passed the kids. Mr. S despises all things fish related. I have no idea where he gets it.

Saturday: Perogies! Yes Ser, I'm going to get off my butthogs and cook up some!

Sunday: Well, I'm not sure yet... Hopefully something yummy that everyone will eat. I'm thinking some Donairs might be on the menu. I haven't made that in ages and I'm getting a bit of a cravin'.

Some Random Thoughts

2010-08-27T15:05:00.000-07:00

My kids are playing in the backyard. They're still wearing their school clothes (yes, I kid myself that there's a difference between their 'play' clothes and their 'school' clothes). It looks like an Indiana Jones/Gap commercial - kids swinging across the equipment, kicking each other while wearing polo shirts and plaid shorts.

We made it to Canada this summer! Wahoo! Montreal was awesome. I had delusions of grandeur while I was there - I took many a photo but alas, they have not yet made it to the blog. I'm hoping the next few weeks will allow me to catch up... *sigh*

We finally painted the living room and bought new furniture - like, from a store and everything! It's looking pretty nice but it's not yet finished. I'll post pictures once I deem it blog-worthy (so, like tomorrow then?).

We finally (yeah, we've put off a lot) invested in a KING SIZE BED! Oh, yes, yes we did! And I love it. It all plush and cozy. It's definitely a step up from our old one. I think the kicker was when Mr. A and I woke up with spring marks in our sides - no joke...

I've been awful with the food shopping. You'd be appalled at the crud I've been buying. But now that schools back in I'm back to making 'from scratch' items. I've already made 5 dozen cookies by freezing the dough. I just take them out, cut them and cook 'em.

My youngest - E. - is off at kindergarten this year. Only a half day but it seems awful lonely without him. He's a constant jabberer, singer, screamer, questioner. I'm sure I'll get used to the 2 1/2 hours of quiet at some point.

That's it for now. I'll try my best to keep up with it all. Mr. E. just got squashed by a boulder and is lying on the ground crying so I'd better run. Have a good one.

Wow!

2010-07-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

Did you see the time fly by? Me neither! Sorry I haven't posted lately but don't give up on me just yet...

Wine

2010-07-16T12:06:00.000-07:00

How is it that I don't have these wine glasses? And do you not LOVE Courteney Cox slurping her wine up?

THE OTHER GUYS

2010-07-15T12:38:00.000-07:00

Land of the Lost may have bit (though Mr. A laughed and laughed) but this looks fabulous. It's got Marky Mark for crying out loud! How yummy is that? And the Rock? And Samuel L. Jackson? AND Will Ferrell? Oh, be still my beating heart!

Happy Birthday!

2010-07-12T12:39:00.001-07:00

He's such a Canuck! Love you Mr. A!

AT-AT DAY AFTERNOON

2010-07-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

This is getting HUGE play at our house! Happy Monday to you.

A bottle of Two Buck Chuck.

2010-06-30T17:31:00.000-07:00

A bunch of fresh raspberries and a couple of peaches to make a beautiful bright red jam.
A little too much sage growing in the garden. Well, that is if you're not going to use it to make Sage & Walnut pesto.

Did I tell you how much I'm enjoying summer?

All this and I didn't even mention Eclipse... (Yes I went to the midnight showing!)

Snap, snap - It's a Lego House.

2010-06-29T06:18:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching James May's Toy Stories, for the second time. The first was last night. With a glass of wine in hand I snuggled down in my comfy chair and prepared myself to listen to the droning of May's voice. And yet, I was delightfully surprised at how my heart started to quicken. All of a sudden, I sat up a little more in my chair. I put down my wine (gasp) and I actually started to listen to him talk. Yes, I sometimes stop listening to his voice on Top Gear - but then I drown out Jeremy and Richard as well so it's not just him...

And I laughed and laughed some more! And then, I thought it was the most brilliant idea in nearly a century (or whenever they started making wine)! A house, made out of LEGO - and not just the kind my kids make with the 1000 pieces they have, but one made from 3.5 million pieces of Lego. A Lego toilet. A Lego sink. A Lego cat. Brilliant! Who wouldn't love that? Okay, maybe not a Lego toilet but the structure of a house made out to Lego? Why, yes, I believe I'd like two - a blue one and a red one!

And now, my children are downstairs fighting over Lego trying to recreate the house that James made. It's not peaceful. It's not quiet. However, the engineering of their little replications is going to be awesome. I suspect there will be flowers in a pot just outside the door.

Thank you Mr. May for helping millions of childrens dreams come true or at the very least two little boys dreams come true.

Two Parts!

2010-06-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

Oh, we all knew it was coming and here it is! The Deathly Hallows Part One. Be still my beating heart!

As an aside: Special hugs being sent out to Robin tonight. I mixed up a batch of the lovely cinnamon tea you sent me, put it in the fridge to chill (for 24 hours), added some ice cubes, simple syrup and vanilla rum and now, I am one HAPPY lady! Stacy liked it. Mr. A. loves it (especially now that I added the vanilla rum). It's absolutely fantastic. If you haven't already done this - DO IT! So very, very yummy. Put it on the list Robin!

SGF - WTF?

2010-06-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is funny. I feel bad that I think it's funny - it's just wrong...

Saturday at the market.

2010-06-26T07:02:00.000-07:00

CRAZY BUSY! I got there around 9:15 am - it opens at 9. The egg lady had 4 dozen eggs left. I bought two and the lady behind me bought two. So as it would seem today is the day that you don't want to sleep in.

And there were people everywhere. Lolligaggers! If you would allow me to rant for just a moment; the very morning section of the market time should be reserved for those of us who know exactly where we're going and what we want. If you've got mom and dad or grandma with you and you're just 'showing them the sights of Worthington' then please, come later. Like 10. I only need 15 minutes to get from end to end.

Alright, sorry. I'm done... I did get my two dozen eggs so I was quite happy. I even ventured out and got a couple of kohlrabi. No, I've never cooked them before but I thought they would be a nice addition to my vinegar potato salad. Just a little 'crunch' to spice things up a bit. I also bought a zuccini to make a couple of fritters. My kids will actually eat those - even better if I put a little applesauce on the side. And that was it.

I apologize also for not posting dinner menus lately. I've been a slacker lately (translation: it's too hot and humid to eat anything other than peanut butter and banana sandwiches) and meals just haven't been made - aside from last nights hot dogs and baked beans (sooo yummy). I'm slowly adjusting to summer (very, very slowly) and I'm hoping things will pick up this week (I'm out of bananas). I'll try to keep you posted.

One great thing that has come from the heat is the Shandy. I know I was buying the bottles and yes, they are delicious BUT I went back to the old version - just plain ol' beer and lemonade and I'm even happier now (translation: I checked the bank book and Miller light and a bottle of Minute Maid Lemonade is cheaper than a 12 pack of ready made Shandys). What's your drink of the summer? Are you mixing it up? Making Mojitos and trying to use the mint in your garden? Let me know!

Dave Matthews Band - Crash Into Me

2010-06-22T10:35:00.000-07:00

I'm going to see him tonight. I can't promise I won't faint. So. Very. Excited!

Two Birthdays?! (June 20th)

2010-06-21T07:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Mr. S! I am thankful for you everyday. (insert mom sob style information here...)

And my Colorado partner in crime, Robin - Happy Birthday Lady! Hope you had a good one!

(Note: The above video taping was done by an amateur. She was too busy laughing to put any real effort into the taping.)

Cake.

2010-06-18T11:03:00.000-07:00

I'm currently making a white chocolate ganache to go into Mr.S's birthday cake. This is the first time I've ever tried my hand at ganache. I don't want to jinx it but I have to say it's not half as scary as I thought it was going to be. I'll post a picture of the cake once it's done... last year I made a 'pirate ship' cake. The ship caved in before I got it outside. I told the kids it hit a reef and was sinking. They thought it was cool.

I'm also having a Summer Shandy. It's a scorcher out there!

Garden dinners.

2010-06-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

I was fretting about dinner on Monday. Then, I took the dog out for a walk and noticed that E.'s peas were ready to go and the sage plant is so full I'm wondering how to use it up. A little inspiration was all it took! The above picture was Monday's dinner - in olive oil. I took the veggies out, being sure to leave some of the oil in the pan, and put the sage leaves in. All was served over the Trader joes medley. Mmm.... super yummy.

Last night was hot dogs at the pool and tonight - more of the peas, some noodles and homemade chicken stock. Chinese Chicken Noodle Soup! It's not just for winter. I'm thinking we go south of the border tomorrow night for a big, gross plate of nachos! You can come too... bring the beer!

To Ser and Andrea.

2010-06-15T05:27:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday! Hope you get the big piece of cake with all the icing!

It bloomed.

2010-06-14T23:15:00.000-07:00

*sigh*

The grass is doing well.

2010-06-11T13:29:00.000-07:00

The Clover is too and the 10 crows in my backyard tell me that they're all quite happy as well. Unfortunately for most everything else in my garden, the rain is slowing stuff down -or perhaps its the Black Walnut tree. The above is a picture of my radishes. These are the only ones I could salvage. I think that I'm probably lacking a ton of nutrients in my soil - perhaps it's all been washed away by the rain?!

See the little birds nest? Thankfully there was no eggs in it. It fell from my maple tree and landed 'smack' onto the patio slabs. I think it's a nice addition to the little bush don't you? I have a little fairy garden door on the opposite side of the tree. It's all quite magical.

The Dragon's Tongue (I just love that name) is in bloom. I quite like the soft blue blooms next to that vibrant burgandy. It looks even better in person! I'm hoping this spreads and/or they have more of it next year at the nursery.

My two curly garlics are going along about their business. I'd like for those to spread as well - cross your fingers. I'm not sure if they do.... the onions have gone to bloom; see them in the back? And that is a sunflower with the big leaves from bird seed - thanks to Miss K. for taking pictures for me last year! They pop up everywhere! I'm hoping for more - natural birdfood!!!

This is the amaranth I bought in the spring. It's not taking off at a fast rate (again, nothing is) but it's gorgeous just the same. On the tag it said you could use the leaves like spinach. Has anyone tried this? And when can I do that? I expect it to get quite tall - perhaps I should read the tag. Yes, I kept it. I can't rely on my memory or my knowledge of flowers to get me by! I think I'm still waiting for that pregancy brain to go away... it's been 5 years...

My Monday in pictures.

2010-06-10T04:40:00.001-07:00

These are the grocery bags I brought in and emptied. Then I realized I should have taken a picture of everything that was in them... oops... Trust me, they were full. Very, very full. I'm hoping that next week all I have to buy is milk and flour. Cross your fingers 'cause there's not much left in the bank account for anything else!

Probably because I bought a LOT of this kind of stuff! It's summer and around here that means there's going to be snacking - and more snacking and probably not a real meal to be found. I try to keep our 'snacks' fairly filling so you'll notice theres bagels, nuts, carrots and tortellini's on the menu. The kids aren't yet aware that most of this is good for them and if any of you tell them you're going to be in trouble!

I just threw this picture in 'cause I was sooo happy to find this in my garden! The peas are up and producing and E and I are eating them faster than any thing. I don't think they'll make it into the house but who can get mad at a kid eating raw peas?! The squash plants are in full bloom now too. The backyard is a sea of yellow flowers. With any luck the squash borers won't get at the plants and I'll be able to have a boatload of goodness. I'm currently battling the slugs - they're winning...

The Weekend.

2010-06-07T04:15:00.000-07:00

It rained and rained and then, finally, from out of nowhere, the sun shined. It's still here today so cross your fingers that it doesn't disappear again. We've got big plans for the next couple of days.

Cutting my lawn is not one of them because my backyard is a swimming pool and not like this which is the place where I'll be spending the majority of my summer. The window is still leaking and I'm sure I've got a wet carpet in the basement - I haven't been brave enough to check yet...

We've had tornado warnings already. Worthington has these big sirens that go off when there's a warning/sighting/watch. I fully expect big ol' war planes to be circling in the sky! Jeepers, a little overactive imagination...

Well, that's all for today. A little scatterbrainish - I suspect it's going to be that way for a while. School's almost out for the summer. It's not going to be half as exciting as this but hopefully a lot less creepy. We don't have too much planned as of yet - perhaps a trip North? It's the standard summer trip for us. What are you doing? And yes, eating cheese doodles counts.