Whatcha Reading and Cooking

New Kitchen/Clean out your fridge over pasta

2011-03-02T17:33:00.000-08:00

Since we updated our kitchen and have working oven, I can now cook again.

I will start keeping notes about what I have cooked.
Tonight we made a clean out your fridge over pasta.

1/2 lb YDFM chick sausage (sauteed)
1 onion
1/2 lb mushrooms
3 cloves crushed garlic
4 leaves fresh sage
1 small can whole tomatoes
.80 lb YDFM pasta (cooked)

saute everything besides sausage and pasta
top with parma and sage

Since it is raining....

2009-09-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

Eats...
Recently I made some a new recipe for Pad Thai. It was pretty good. Darrin wants more sauce. I added extra veggies. Chicken could also be used. We will make it again.

Reads...
I am reading Outcasts United. I am liking it. I have had some Fugees as my students.

Knits...
I am knitting a cotton sweater T.

I have not deseted you...

2009-09-19T06:52:00.000-07:00

I just have been on Facebook. I will post about what I have cooked and read over the summer on another day.

Off Time is Wonderful

2009-06-25T08:13:00.001-07:00

Eats...
I have been cooking a lot. I made two loafs of zucchini bread yesterday.

Reads...
I am listening to Little Brother and loving it. I am trying to finish Tender Morsels.

Knits...
I finished the sock. Now I am working on a top.

Silkened Tofu

2009-06-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

Eats...
I picked up the cookbook, The Food Your Crave, from the library. I am loving it. I think I might have to purchase it. I have made the poached salmon with yogurt sauce. It is really good. I have also made the hummus and pita chips which are scrumptious. The hummus has silkened tofu in it. I did not think that tofu could be so good. It is like a custard. I made the portabello panini, but that was not so good. Tonight it will be the lamb chops.

Reads...
I just picked up Tender Morsels. I could not put it down last night.

Knits...
Just need to finish off the second sock.

Watching Darrin Grill Sausages

2009-05-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

Eats...
Not much on the way of new cooking. Garlic Almond Green Beans were good, but added too many almonds.

Reads...
You are a Dog is what I am reading now. The Whistling Season was okay. I liked Goth Girl and Fan Boy much better.

Knits...
I will finish my pair of socks one stitch at a time.

Three Days of Bean Salad

2009-05-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

Eats...
We have been going to parties the past three days and have to bring something. I just do not feel like turning on the stove. White bean salad has been my go to.

Reads...
I am reading the Whistling Season and finishing Fanboy and Goth Girl.

End of the School Year

2009-05-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

One more week of school:)

Eats...
I think I will roast some veggies to go with a large salmon steak.

I did make some mini egg dishes for my clerk's breakfast. They were good.

Reads....
I am listening to Fan Boy and Goth Girl and reading The Whistling Season.

Knits...
One day I will finish that pair of socks.

Bill and Michael's Crab Cakes

2009-05-03T12:37:00.000-07:00

Eats...
We went over to our friend's house a few weeks ago and they made us crab cakes. They have to be the best I have ever had. We got the recipe and made them with crab Michael got us.

2T Butter

1 C scallions

1/2 green pepper (prefer red)

3 lbs lump crabmeat

1 C italian bread crumbs (I make my own and add 1 bunch basil)

1/4 tsp lemon zest

Reads...
I am finishing Ecology of a Cracker Childhood and The Art of Driving in Rain.

Knits...
None I have been gardening.

Orange Mint Salad Dressing

2009-04-28T16:50:00.000-07:00

Eats....
I made a quick salad dressing from the juice of half an orange, a few mint leaves, salt, olive oil, and pepper. It tasted good on some mixed field greens.

Reads...
I am reading Cracker Childhood and listening to The Art of Driving in the Rain.

Knits...
I have not knitted. I have been playing in the yard/garden instead.

Alejandro Escovedo and David Sedaris

2009-04-19T09:50:00.001-07:00

What a week! I saw one the best concerts ever. Alejandro Escovedo is awesome. He played in a small venue at Eddie's Attic. The next night I saw David Sedaris. I only wish it would have been a smaller venue. I enjoyed Alejandro much more.

Eats...
I ate on mushroom and noodles all week long.
Scallops are for dinner tonight. Yum.

Reads...
I am reading the Ecology of a Cracker Childhood and listening to Anne of Green Gables. It is a great recording.

Knits....
Well, nothing except the second sock. Perhaps I will have a pair Memorial Day. I am just not in the knitting mode.

Spring Break (ahhhhhhhhh)

2009-04-05T09:49:00.000-07:00

Eats....
No new recipes have been made that I can remember.

But I did plant some new herbs, a pepper plant, and some tomato plants. Cannot wait to indulge.

Reads...
I finished listening to You Don't Love Me Yet. It was okay, I guess I was expecting more.

I am reading The Handmaid's Tale. I am liking it.

Knits....
I have been on a knitting break, since I have been reading more.

Redneck Microwave Food or Mansnacks

2009-03-22T09:44:00.000-07:00

Eats...
I made pretzels wrapped in bacon topped with cheese. All you do is nuke the pretzels and bacon for 6 minutes, then top with cheese. Not my favorite snack, but everyone else liked them.

Reads...
Finish Oscar Wao and listening to Dewey the Library Cat.

Knits...
Working on sock number two.

Turkey Lasagna

2009-03-09T18:16:00.001-07:00

Eats...
I made Turkey Lasagna for our progressive dinner. It was a hit.

Reads...
I finished What I Saw and How I Lied. Good YA lit.

Knits...
I knitted a sock. One more and I will have a pair.

I started a new blog. What Would Charlie Eat.

A Few Pics and We have Snow

2009-03-02T06:13:00.001-08:00

Russ and Charlie Sniffing Out the Snow

Home in the Snow

Flat Ian and myself at the capital

Eats...
I made Banana Bars for a dinners last night. The bars were okay, but the icing was great. I am making a chicken pot pie tonight from the big yellow bible.

Reads...
What I Saw and How I Lied was good. I am still listening to Inkdeath. Will Mo live?

Knits...
I need to be knitting my sock rather than writing on my blog. My last class is Wednesday.

Lazy, Lazy Me

2009-02-22T08:44:00.000-08:00

I have not kept up with my blog in a while.

Eats...
I made Lamb Paella. It was okay, not a keeper.

I also made Texas Sheet Cake. It was so good and moist.

Reads...
I am listening to Inkdeath and reading What I Saw and How I Lied.

Knits...
I am taking a sock class. Not going so well, since Charlie ate my needles.

Paprika Chicken and Saffron Dumplings

2009-01-26T15:27:00.000-08:00

Eats....
It was surprisingly great. A keeper!

Pork Loin and Apple Strudel

2009-01-25T08:11:00.000-08:00

Eats...
Darrin made venison chili last Sunday. Last Monday, I made mac, cheese and cauliflower. It was pretty good. Maybe too healthy for mac and cheese. It made a ton. Last night we had some friends over for dinner. We made the fennel pork loin that I have made before. I added parsnips, butternut squash, onions and potatoes. It was good, again.

Reads...
I am still reading Cesar's Way and listening to Plague of Doves.

Knits...
Still on the scarf.

Eats...

2009-01-19T12:54:00.001-08:00

Two new recipes.

Rosemary Skewered Monkfish with Pancetta and Bread

Next time I will just season the fish. It was good. A keeper.

I also made Rice Krispie Treats, but with Cheerios and some dried cherries. It was good, but not the original.

Cold, Cold January

2009-01-17T08:11:00.000-08:00

I can tell Charlie all of my bad jokes and he still thinks they are funny.

Eats...
I have made a lot in the past few weeks.
I made a fish and veggie ratatouille. It was very good. I will keep the recipe. It is a Jaime Oliver recipe from his cookbook from the library.

I made a chocolate swirl nut bundt cake. It was not so good. If anyone wants any, about 5/6 of the cake is left. I do not think we will finish it. I will not add that to my stack or remakes.

I think we are going to make grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup for dinner. Yummy!

Darrin just kegged his English bitter beer. Ready to drink tomorrow.

Reads...
I am listening to On the Road and reading Ceasar's Way.

Knits...
I am still on the shawl. I have not knitted much in a few days.

New Year's Supper

2008-12-31T09:25:00.000-08:00

Eats...
I am making some Irish stew for tonight. Recipe from the big yellow bible. Also, I am planning to make some biscotti and spiced nuts.

Reads...
I started reading On Agate Hill, but cannot get into it. So I moved on to Paper Towns by John Green. It already seems more interesting.

Knits...
I have hat requests, but I am going to make a shawl.

Sweet Chex Mix

2008-12-20T12:43:00.000-08:00

Eats...
At the neighborhood potluck, I tried a sweet Chex mix. I found the recipe. It is Chocolate Chex Carmel Crunch. It is pretty sweet. Next time I might just use regular Chex. I also made Fantastic Chicken and it was fantastic.

Reads...
I finished Tamar, Chasing Windmills, and Uglies. Well, I did not finish Uglies. I just got tired of it.

Tamar was ok. Chasingin Windmills was better.

Knits...
I am knitting a hat for someone for Christmas.

Puppy and Venison Sausage

2008-12-06T06:51:00.001-08:00

We decided to keep the puppy (aka Charlie).

Eats...
I just made some venison sausage that a friend gave me. I put it in breakfast tacos. It was good.

Reads...
I finished Tamar and started the Hunger Games. I am also reading Chasing Windmills.

I am listening to Uglies.

Knits...
I am darning the ends of the furry sweater that I started this summer. It got to hot and I ran out of yarn. I can wear it now, since it is so cold.

puppy needs a home

2008-11-29T18:32:00.000-08:00

I finally caught one of the puppies that I have seen living in a vacant lot. He is three months old and golden retriever/chow mix. Super cute and fluffy.

If you know of anyone that is looking to adopt a dog in the Atlanta area, let me know.

Cold in November

2008-11-23T12:23:00.000-08:00

Eats...
I foget what we ate this week.

Oh, I remember Darrin's pork chops with a mushroom gravy and acorn squash. That was yummy.

Reads...
I am still reading Tamar. I just need to get through it.
I am finish The Girl Who Stopped Swimming.
I finished Twisted. Average teen read.

Knits...
I love my quicky vest. I am finishing the sweater that I started this summer.

Green Onion Biscuits

2008-11-15T12:41:00.000-08:00

Eats...
I made some Buttermilk Biscuits with Green Onions, Black Pepper and Sea Salt for our neighborhood watch meeting this morning. They were good.

Reads...
I finished Three Cups of Tea and Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist. Both were good in their own ways.

Knits...
I am knitting a quickie vest.

Cauliflower can be Good!

2008-11-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

Eats...
I have never been a big fan of cauliflower. I am trying recipes to change my opinion. The roasted C in the big yellow bible is great.

This week we tried the Cauliflower Cheddar Gratin with Horseradish. It was good. I am thinking about taking it for Thanksgiving dinner, since there usually is not many veggies at the table.

Reads...
Same

Knits...
Same

Coq au Vin

2008-11-05T15:05:00.001-08:00

Eats...
I made this recipe for Coq au Vin last night. It was tasty. I did however sear the meat and remove it from the pan before adding the veggies to cook. I also add more salt then suggested, three bacon strips, celery, and more garlic. I had read the reviews about it being bland. I also added the thyme towards the end of the cooking.

Reads..
Same

Knits...
Same

Good Reads

2008-11-02T04:45:00.001-08:00

I have joined Good Reads and love it. I am keeping track of my reads there now.

Cool Weather = Back in the Kitchen

2008-11-02T04:15:00.000-08:00

Eats...
The Mr. made Lamb and Black Bean Chili for our Halloween meal. It was so good. I thought the lamb would be too overpowering, but it was not. This is a keeper recipe. I made Cheddar-Beer Quick Bread. It as so easy and went well with the chili. We will also be keeping this recipe also. It was a delicious meal.

Also, this week we made Rigatoni with Vegetable Bolognese. This is one recipe that we have made in the past and loved. It is a great recipe for veg-heads.

For lunch this week, I made bacon, onion and lentil skillet. It was very good and satisfying. A lunch keeper. Healthy and tasty even with the bacon.

Reads...
I am listening to Three Cups of Tea and reading Tamar.

Knits...
The never ending shawl is almost complete. I just need to add three buttons to is and tuck and hind the tail. Then I am DONE! It does look beautiful. I will move on to a easy bulky vest. I need a quick project.

Life in a Lane (Slow and Fast)

2008-10-18T05:01:00.000-07:00

We are so busy at work, I needed a break and went to conference.

Eats...
I made the pork loin this past week. Then ate out most of the other time.

Reads...
I finished listening to Copper Sun. It was sooooooo good.
1. What a journey.
2. Tough to read at times
3. Strong Women/girls

Still reading Sparrow.

Knits...
Finished the cap. Back to the everlasting shawl.

Looking Back

2008-10-12T19:00:00.000-07:00

Eats...
We have gotten into a rut and have been making the same boring things week after week. I thought the best way to start some new recipes is to make some ones that I have made once or twice and have forgotten about. Only ones we like.

We made a turkey burger for me and a hamburger for the Mr. last Sunday. I also made Frank's Greek Potato Salad. It was a good meal. I think that I made added the salad in the past.

We also made Lamb Tagine this past week. It is so good. So much flavor.

I think that we will make Pork Loin tomorrow.

Reads...
I am reading Sparrow Delaney and listening to Copper Sun.

Knits...
I am finishing the everlasting shawl and a baby's cap.

Miss Spitfire

2008-10-05T05:43:00.001-07:00

Eats...
We did not make any new recipes this week. However, I did indulge myself to a $2.50 artichoke.

Reads...
I have started to keep track of my reads on Good Reads. It is a awesome website.
I just Finished Miss Spitfire.
1.What patience!
2. Fascinating Story
3. Nice and brief.

I have also started reading Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist.

I am listening to Copper Sun.

Knits...
I am almost finished with the everlasting shawl.

Impromptu Septemberfest

2008-09-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

Eats...
We had a small group of friends over last night. The Mr. had two of kegs or homebrew ready to drink. We had sausages. Next time, I need to get less sausages. (Perhaps 20 for 14 people.) We have a lot of sausage left over.

I made Boiled Potatoes which were quick and easy and tasty. Then we used the same broth from the potatoes to boil the sausages in. The garlic, salt and pepper in the broth gave the potatoes extra flavor. I also added parsley.

I also made Red Cabbage Slaw. This needs to be made overnight or first thing in the morning. It was good. I did not add raisins, but added an apple. I tasted it a few hours after making and it and did not like it. Then I tasted it before serving and the flavors really melded. I left it on the counter for a few hours at room temps, then put it in the fridge for a few more hours.

Dessert, I made the easy strudel like I had done before. A friend brought over the best cookies. Cherry, white chocolate and macadamian nut cookies. They are sooo good. I need the recipe.

Reads...
I listened to Last Night at the Lobster.
1. The characters were so honestly written.
2. Red Lobster
3. You don't always get what you want in life.

I also started to listen to Quite Honestly. Well, quite honestly I could not finish it.

I just finished Carolina Moon. I loved this book.
1. Quee, one of the most interesting characters I have ever read.
2 The more I think about the book the more I like it.
3. Sometimes Southern Lit is not all about fluff and overrated characters.

Knits...
I do not think that I will ever finish this shawl.

Down with a Cold/Flu

2008-09-13T14:06:00.000-07:00

I have been knocked off my butt this week by a cold. It has been terrible.

Eats...
I made a Jamie Oliver's Fantastic Chicken. It was good. We just finished the leftovers in a sandwich.

Reads...
I finished Big Fish. I think that it needs to be illustrated like a fairy tale book. What an imagination!

I also finished listening to The Goodbye Summer. It was okay.

I am now reading Carolina Moon. I saw the author at the Decatur Book Festival. She read and excerpt from this book and it sounded interesting.

Knits...
Still on the everlasting shawl.

Life is Good and Before We Were Free and A Mango Shaped Space

2008-09-06T10:47:00.000-07:00

Cooking...
Not much is going on in the kitchen. Nothing new anyways.

Reads...
I finished two powerful books a week.
I finished Life is So Good. I liked it, but it makes me wonder how many people in the US are illiterate. It must be terrible not to be able to read.

I also finished Before We Were Free. We are so lucky to live in the United States.

I also finished A Mango Shaped Space. What if my senses were a little off and colors were everywhere. I never knew about the disease until I read the book.

Knits...
I am working on the everlasting shawl.

Decatur Book Festival

2008-09-01T11:50:00.001-07:00

I am recovering from the book festival and my mom and stepfather's visit.

Cooking...
Not Much.

Reads...
I am reading Life is So Good and listening to Before We Were Free.

I have much more that I want to read since I went to the DBF. I really want to read Big Fish.

Knits...
I am knitting a lacy poncho.

Still Alive

2008-08-31T16:13:00.001-07:00

I am still alive, just haven't blogged.
I went to the Decatur Book Festival and will write soon.

Refinished Floors, Breaking Dawn, and Pre-marintated Pork

2008-08-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

Eats...
We had our floors refinished this week. I have eaten out almost every night for the past week, since we have been staying in a hotel.

We did however grill one of those pre-marinated pork tenderloins. We were not impressed. We thought it had too many dried herbs on it and salt.

Reads...
I am listening to the History of Love.

I finished Breaking Dawn. Blah, Blah, Blah. I was disappointed. It ended with the nice perfect ending and morals galore.

I have started to read Life is So Good.

Knits...
I finished the baby sweater. I am working on a shawl. Right now I am finding my gauge.

Birthday Flan and Breaking Dawn

2008-08-06T06:19:00.000-07:00

Eats...
I made Darrin Creme Caramel (aka flan) for his birthday. It was so tasty. The recipe is from the big yellow bible.

We went out to a German restaurant this weekend. I got the pork shank. It had so much meat on it, that we made tacos out of it the next day. Who would have thought that German leftovers could be Mexican food.

Reads...
I started Breaking Dawn. I am disappointed so far. The Bella/Edward attraction was not there. I think that is what kept it going. It is getting stranger and stranger. Bella is pregnant with Edward's child.

Knits...
No much, since I have been reading Breaking Dawn.

Ground Meat?

2008-08-01T13:48:00.001-07:00

Eats...
I bought some ground chicken to stuff some peppers. Darrin did not want that for dinner, so we made tacos with the meat. There is something about loose ground meat that we both do not like. Oh well, everything else in the taco was good.

Reads...
I finished Fortunate Son with disappointment. I was not thrilled by the book.
1. I thought Walter Mosely could write better.
2. Bad story.
3. I wish I would have picked up another book to listen to.

Mango is going well.

Knits...
I am thinking that I may just knit the bottom instead of crocheting. Just cannot get the hang of crocheting.

Russ...
After spending too much money for the second time to get his teeth cleaned, I decided to buy a toothbrush. Wish me luck with it!!!!!!!!!

Stuffed Eggplant

2008-07-31T06:34:00.001-07:00

Eats...
I got in the kitchen yesterday and could not get out. I made stuffed eggplants from Daisy Cooks. They sounded and looked good. Not so much. It was edible, but not the greatest. I made lamb chops to accompany. Those were good, using the big yellow bible caper recipe.

I also made blueberry muffins using the big yellow bible recipe. Yummy!!!!!!!!!!

Reads...
Almost finished with Fortunate Son. Still in the middle of Mango.

Knits...
I am trying to learn how to crochet. I feel like I am all thumbs. I need to add a crochet piece to the baby sweater. Perhaps it will go without an crochet pattern.

Since the camera was out

2008-07-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

Eats...
Not much action happening in the kitchen.

Reads...
I skimmed From the Confederate Dead. A book of poetry. Not my favorite genre, but I am sure it is good for poetry.

I am reading A Mango Shaped Space and listening to Fortunate Son.

Knits...
I have started a baby sweater for my cousin Ross's new baby. Since we had the camera out from vacation I decided to take some pictures of the items I have knitted.

The top-down sweater that is on hold till my yarn comes in.

A little Fair Isle cap.

The hardest washcloth ever!

Fair Isle baby cap.

New York

2008-07-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

This is how you should take the picture.

Eats...
I have not done much cooking, but I have been eating a lot. The Mr. and I were in NY. We visited my aunt. We so much good food. Best deal the Bier Garten in Battery Park and Metro Marche. It was hot as hell.

Reads...
I finished Of Human Bondage. I loved it.
1. The meaning of life is answered.
2. Mildred is a bitch.
3. Wonderful story and believable characters

I also finished French Women Don't Get Fat.
1. Common Sense
2. Common Sense
3. Do American women not have common sense?

Knits...
I am waiting for my sweater yarn to come in still.
I finished the most difficult dish cloth.
I am starting a hat using a Fair Isle pattern.

Pork Chops

2008-07-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

Eats...
We have been making stuffed pork chops that are pan fried. The stuffing is onions, herbs, mushrooms and a dairy product. They have been quite tasty.

Reads...
I am still reading Of Human Bondage.

I finished The Vagabonds. I enjoyed it.
1. Family secrets
2. Makes me want to learn more about the Vagabonds.
3. - cannot think of a third comment-

I am now listening to French Women Don't Get Fat.

Knits...
I just finished a baby cap for my cousin. I am working on the most complicated dishcloth as I wait for my sweater yarn to come in.

Rain and Risotto

2008-07-11T07:03:00.000-07:00

Eats...
Now that we are getting rain, I felt risotto was perfect for dinner. And it was with some peas and prosciutto.

Reads...
Almost finished with The Vagabonds.

Still have a long way to go on Of Human Bondage.

Knits...
Finished the arms and neckband. All that is left is the body.

New Love

2008-07-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

I went out and bought a bike a few weeks ago. I have been riding almost everyday. I love it!

Eats...
The Mr. and I are not fond of cauliflower, but Grand Angela told me to try it roasted. We actually liked it. I used the recipe in the big yellow bible. Perhaps I will have the leftovers for lunch.

Reads...
Now I know why I like books that are not too long. I am reading Of Human Bondage on paperback quality (= small font), so that means it is only 600+ pages. I am only around page 200. It will take me the rest of the summer to finish it. Good thing I am enjoying it.

I am listening to The Vagabonds.

Knits...
Still knitting my sweater. On to the second arm. It is going to be the warmest thing I have in my closet.

Milk Chocolate Blondies on the 4th

2008-07-05T12:38:00.000-07:00

Eats...
I made some blondies from the Southern Living Cookbook. I thought they needed some umph so I added milk chocolate chips on top. The chocolate made it so much better, but isn't everything better with chocolate (or cheese)?

I also made grilled some zucchuni. It was very tasty but next time I will leave out the curry powder. It was too overpowering. I also added the butter mixture to the shrimp to grill.

Reads...
I started listening to The Vagabonds.

I am still reading Of Human Bondage.

Knits...
I am still on the top down mohair sweater. I had to redo the first arm. It was so side, that I think that my thigh could have fit.

Apple Strudel

2008-06-30T07:41:00.000-07:00

Eats....
I just made the easiest apple strudel and it was very good. Just remember to add vents next time:)

Reads...
I just finished The Heart is a Lonely Hunter. I did not realize it was an Oprah book, but The Poisonwood Bible was too. It was very good.
1. Classic, but readable read
2. Heart touching
3. Honest

I am still reading Keeping Corner.

Knits....
Mohair top down sweater. It is so warm! I tried the top part on. I think that I will be wearing it only on the coldest days.

Honey on Swiss Chard

2008-06-27T06:14:00.000-07:00

Eats...
Note to self - If swiss chard is too bitter, add a drop of honey. It is surprisingly good.

Reads...
Listening to The Heart is A Lonely Hunter.
Reading Keeping Corner.

Knitting...
I have started knitting a top down mohair sweater. Yes, I am crazy to knit mohair in the summer.

Kitchen Sink Cookies

2008-06-24T06:49:00.001-07:00

Eats...
I made some healthy cookies. After watching Ellie Krieger make these cookies, I thought I would give them a try. They are better then I thought they would be. I put a little more chocolate in them too. Very edible.

Reads...
I finished Enduring Love. It was okay, the only reason I finished it was because the stalked was just plain nuts.
1. Crazy Stalker
2. Freaky
3. Pictured Owen Wilson as the stalker

I started reading Keeping Corner. It is more middle school historic fiction. Good so far. Based on a true story in India about becoming a widow at the age of 12.

Still listening to the Heart is a Lonely Hunter.

I finished the plastic knitted bag. Actually it turned out nice. I was thinking that it would make nice gifts to give.

I am finishing old projects right now. However, I did sew a bag to keep my needles in and separated.

Spot Missed Russ

2008-06-19T10:18:00.000-07:00

It is quite pathetic when your neighbor's cat misses your dog after you are gone for a few days. Since we have returned Spot will not leave our porch. Perhaps Spot missed Russ more than I did.

Eats...
When in SA, we eat every breakfast at La Palapas except Sundays when they are closed.
Now that we are back, I am back to cooking. I did make dinner last night. One of my friends made this bean salad for a party once. It is surprisingly easy and refreshing. Just make sure the you let it sit for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. Put all of the following in a bowl.
1 can of white beans
2 tomatoes diced
a handful of chopped basil
1 garlic clove
a squeeze of lemon
s&p

Reads...
Someone left Enduring Love at my house during my brunch. It is Ian McEwan, so I thought I would give it a chance. The stalker is CRAZY!!!!!!

I have not finished listening to the Heart is a Lonely Hunter. I fell asleep listening to it on the plane.

Knits...
I just need to crochet the collar on the poncho and I am done.

I did start knitting a bag. It is made up leftover yarn from the poncho and a cut up plastic table cloth. Talk about feeling weird.

The Nature of Monsters

2008-06-11T06:38:00.000-07:00

Eats...
Not much new on the cooking scene. Just some of the same old recipes. I guess it is the heat that keeps one from cooking. However, the Mr. did brew a new batch of brew.

Reads...
I just finished reading The Nature of Monsters.
1. EVIL
2. What a cruel world to live in the 1700's.
3. Companionship
It was a hard story to begin, but it got better. The storytelling was compelling and I had a hard time putting it down after page 50.

I am listening to The Heart is a Lonely Hunter. Just beginning it, I realize that the meaning of the title.

Knits...
I finished knitting portion the poncho. Now I need to sew it together. Then I have to learn how to crochet, so the neckline will be finished.

French Toast and Deviled Eggs

2008-06-05T10:05:00.000-07:00

Eats...
I had a brunch tomorrow for a few educator friends yesterday for brunch. I made a French Toast recipe that I made for my family at Christmas. Both parties really enjoyed enjoyed the recipe. I think that I might have to make it when I go back to Texas. I exchange the corn syrup for maple syrup. I also make my own whipped cream because who wants to eat cool whip?
Also, I made the deviled eggs from the Big Yellow bible.

Reads...
Still on Nature of Monsters and Eclipse.

Knits...
Poncho

Salad Dressing

2008-06-03T06:41:00.000-07:00

Eats...
I made a good salad yesterday. For the dressing, I added lemon juice, olive oil, s&p, a pinch of sugar and fresh basil. For the salad, I added green leaf lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, black olives and parm. reg. It was actually good. It accompanied some chicken parm.

Reads...
I am reading The Nature of Monsters.

I am reading the third book of the Twilight Series.

Knits...
Half way done on the poncho.

Tomato Egg Cups

2008-06-01T09:33:00.000-07:00

Eats...
This morning I made some tomato egg cups. I thought that they would be something simple and tasty. Wrong! They made a mess, especially when the tomato fell apart from being over cooked. We had egg everywhere. It is a great idea, but not good follow through.

Reads...
I started reading The Nature of Monsters. It has been sitting on the shelf of my library waiting for me to pick it up. I brought it home for the summer.

Knits...
Still on the poncho. It is looking good.

Out for summer and sick

2008-05-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

Why do I have to be sick on my first days off???? Summer colds suck!

Eats...
I tried a new recipe. I was looking for something that I thought would be easy and taste good the next day. I tried this moussaka. The eggplant took a while to cook. It tasted good, but was missing something. Perhaps some more juices or cheese.

Reads...
I just finished Enemy Women today. I enjoyed it even though it took me so long to finish it.
1. Historic
2. Well told story
3. Love story included

I finished The Man of my Dreams. It was something fun that I needed.
1. Even though the title is cheesy, it fit the story well.
2. Liberating
3. Self assuring

Knits...
I finished the eyelash scarf. I never plan to use eyelash yarn again. It was hard to knit with.

I knitted a fancy, lace cap with some leftover yarn. It turned out cute.

I started a poncho. I am using an acrylic yarn. I am not fond of the type of yarn, but really like the colors I am using. I bought the yarn just to try something out.

Here are some gardening pics.

School is Out

2008-05-24T12:12:00.000-07:00

School is out for the summer. Just two more teacher work days and I am done. I have not written a while due to a neighborhood festival and end of the school activities. Now it is the summer and me:) (and Russ)

Eats...
I tried the veggie Giada dish from the previous post. It was very good. We will be keeping that recipe. Also, another new dish was stuffed pork chops. We used a few mushrooms, onions, garlic, rosemary, tomato paste and cream. They were also delicious.

We made a sage butter sauce to go with some mushroom raviolis. It went very well together. A little too rich for my taste.

Reads...
Since I have been so busy, I have not been reading much. I am still reading Enemy Women. I will finish it. It is good, but I read a page before I fall asleep each night.

I tried to listen to our book club selection, Never let me Go. I listened to a CD and a half. There was no direction, so I stopped there. I needed something more contemporary with fun. I am reading The Man of my Dreams. It is written by the same author who wrote Prep. It is exaclty what I needed to keep me awake in the car.

Knits...
Eyelash yarn is not easy to knit with. This will probably be the first and last eyelash yarn project. Just a few more inches on the scarf and I am done.

Spring Fever

2008-05-11T14:58:00.000-07:00

Eats...
We have not been wanting to cook to much. It is too nice outside. The Mr. just made shrimp poboys. They were yummy. Perhaps it was because we were so hungry.

We are going to make Rigatoni with Vegetables Bologense.
It looked good when Giada made it.

Reads...
I finished listening to The Bell Jar.
1.Honest
2. Horrifying
3. A waste of a life

I am still reading Enemy Women. It might be awhile before I finish it. I will be very busy the next couple of weeks - the end of school.

This past week I went to the International Reading Conference. I have a lot of new books to add to the list of books I want to read.

Knits...
I finished a washcloth, two baby bibs and have started an eyelash scarf.

Supper Club at our House

2008-05-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

We had supper club at our house yesterday. It was such a nice day. We celebrates Tres De Mayo. We made tacos and fixings. I made a pot of black beans. The Mr. marinated the skirt steak and it was tasty.

Read...
I finished listening to Water for Elephants. It was great.
1. Heart Warming
2. Circus fun
3. How to age gracefully.

On to The Bell Jar.

I have started to read Enemy Women.

Knits..
I gave up on the sock. I am knitting a friend a bib for her baby.

I am going to the

Sock Break

2008-04-27T13:16:00.001-07:00

Eats...
I made my/Emeril's giant apple-pecan pancake. It is a good and quick weekend morning breakfast. I plan on roasted chicken tonight. We all will experiment with a white asparagus.

Reads...
I have given up on Evernight. Perhaps, I am too old for the whole concept.

I am still listening to Water for Elephants. Is it still very good. I am putting up there with The Kite Runner.

Knits...
I am still on the sock. I do not like that pattern, so I am moving on to something else and will come back to the socks. I think that I want to use a different pattern.

Supper Club Food

2008-04-21T15:44:00.000-07:00

Eats...
We belong to a supper club. Darrin smoked a brisket. Someone made the best corn casserole. Both were very tasty.

Reads...
I am reviewing the book Evernight. Teenage Vampire Love.

I am listening to Water for Elephants. So far it is so goooooooooooooood.

Knits...
I am still on the one sock.

Baked Cucumbers

2008-04-13T17:37:00.000-07:00

Eats...
I made Concombres a' la Creme (Creamed Cucumbers) from Mastering the Art of French Cooking. The cucumbers are baked. Not so bad, but not so great either. I made them because J&J said they were not so bad. Very interesting. Not a do again recipe.

The Mr. and I combined our efforts and made Jamie Oliver's Steak, Guinness and Cheese Pie. I did not like it, but the Mr. did. It just was not my flavor. It was beefy and had puff pastry on it.

(Psycho slaw is not online anymore and I am just too lazy to type it out.)

Reads...
Will the saga of the Twilight Series ever finish? New Moon good, but not as good as Twilight.
1. Poor Jake
2. Not as good as Twilight.
3. One to the next one

I am still reading Julie and Julia.

Knits..
Still knitting one sock........................ Will that ever end?

Mountain Time

2008-04-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

Eats...
The Mr., Russ and I went to the mountains for a few days. I made some comfort food for the trip. I am not a meatloaf person, but I thought I would try one the had great reviews. Try this recipe from Ina Gardner. It was so good. I made only half, and it was still too much. I think that we only need 1 1/2 lbs of meat. I also made a mac and cheese SOHO from our Mac and Cheese cookbook. Yes, we have a Mac and Cheese cookbook. I also made the brownies from the back of the Baker's Chocolate box. It is a good recipe. Lastly, I made my Psycho Slaw. It is the most colorful and flavorful slaw made with red cabbage, red and yellow peppers, cilantro, ginger, and a vinaigrette.

Tonight, I will thaw out the crab cakes from last week and make a salad with it.

Reads...
I finished the Friday Night Knitting Club.
1. chick flick
2. Readable and not too girly
3. not believable

I am reading Julie and Julia. It makes me want to try to master French cooking. I want to try bake cucumbers and try the lobsters.

I tried listening to Black Swan Green. Perhaps I was not in the mood for it.

I am listening to New Moon. It is the sequel to Twilight.

Knits..
I want to finish the socks I am making. I made a little cap for a friend's baby. I hope that it is not too small yet.

Will post soon...

2008-04-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

I will post soon. We went out of town for a few days. I will get back soon.

Spring is in the Air

2008-03-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

Cooks...
I have not cooked many different/new items since the party. I did make crab cakes the other night while the Mr. did the taxes. I use the William Sonoma Entertaining cookbook. Yummy! I saw in "Cooking Light" roasted veggies with the crab cakes. I like a green salad with it better.

Reads...
I just finished listening to Atonement. I like the writing style of McEwan. Not everything ends with a happy ending.
1. Love Story A+
2. Historical Fiction A+++
3. Why would the rape victim marry her rapist?

I am reading Friday Night Knitting Club. The Mr. bought me it for Valentine's Day. I bought him the Dogfish Head book. I am liking it. It is a good chick flick book that is well written.

Knits...
I need to go back to the Mr.'s sweater. I knitted the collar on backwards (front in the back and back in the front).

I am working on a sock right now. I am just getting ready to turn it.

Party Time

2008-03-18T18:31:00.000-07:00

Cooks...
We just threw a big party. I made too much food. Since the weather was so bad, we were missing about 20 people. We had so much food left over. Shepherds pie, butterscotch scones, sad cookies, whiskey balls, corned beef sandwiches and etc. Too much food! We are feasting on leftovers.

Reads...
I just finished reading Everlost. Great book!
1. Good story
2. Afterlights
3. Interesting Topic

I just finished listening to Sweet and Low.
1.He says and She says
2 and 3 (#1 says it all)

Knits...
I FINISHED the Mr.'s sweater.
On to a pair of socks.

Not Much Cooking Going On

2008-03-08T06:04:00.000-08:00

Cooks...
I have not cooked much this week. I will give you my hummus recipe. A can of drained chickpeas, juice if a lemon, paprika, salt, pepper, cumin, olive oil, a drop of sesame seed oil. Throw it all in the blender. Sometimes I add a roasted red pepper if available. I also make my own pita chips.

Reads...
I am reading Everlost. It is good writing for a young adult book.

I am listening to Sweet and Low: A Family Story. I am learning Jews and sugar.

Knits...
I am finishing the Mr.'s Sweater again!

Shepherds Pie and Good Reads

2008-03-01T17:20:00.000-08:00

Food...
I made shepherds pie the other day. Now that my taste buds are working again, I am eating and cooking. It did not need so much beef stock. It was good and tasty. It will be good for my St. Paddy's party.

Reads...
I just finished reading American Gods. It was better than I thought it would be. My thoughts:
1. Dream Provoking
2. Great Characters
3. Good Storyline

I am reading Everlost. It is keeping my interest.

Also, I listened to The Bluest Eye. I think that I had read it before a while ago.
I am currently listening to Speak. I am liking it.

Knitting...
I finished the Mr.'s sweater - five inches too long. I have to go back and take all of that work off. I am not looking forward to it.

Valentines

2008-02-15T09:07:00.000-08:00

Eats...
I made a whole chicken this week. I used the Naked Chef's recipe for fantastic chicken. Yum!

The Mr. made my favorite last night for Valentines. He made sea scallops in a cream sauce with pasta. The scallops were so good. What a perfect Valentines!

Reads...
I am reading American Gods. It is starting off good.

I am listening to True Believer. It is a typical N. Sparks book.

Knitting...
I am finishing off the Mr.'s sweater. I just have the bottom to go. At the rate I am going, he might not be able to wear till next winter.

Under the Weather

2008-02-05T07:03:00.001-08:00

I have been under the weather lately thanks to my allergies.
Food...
I made stuffed peppers the other night. I used ground turkey. I seasoned it and browned it. Then I added an egg, Japanese bread crumbs, parm reg., and parsley. I stuffed two halves of a large yellow pepper and cooked. I wish I would have roasted the pepper a little before I baked it all together.

Last night, I made a baked ziti. Easy. Too bad I can not taste the food too well.

Reads...
I just finished listening to an abridged version of A Great and Terrible Beauty.
I can see that my students will like it. I do not think that I will continue along with the series.
1.Harry Potter for girls
2. magical
3.English

I could not finish Dorian Gray. I think that it rattled on a little too much for me.

I am still reading the graphic novel Castle Waiting. I want to see how it ends.

Knits...
I am getting to the end of the Mr.'s sweater. Yeah!!!!!!!!!

Last Sunday

2008-02-01T17:22:00.000-08:00

Food

This weekend, I spent all of Sunday in the kitchen. I had a friend come over for dinner. I wanted to make Beef Bourguigon. http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/231697

After watching the Barefoot Contessa make it, I decided it was time for me to make it. It was wonderful. I used frozen pearl onions. I wish I would have steamed them or cooked them with the rest of the stew. There were a bit raw. I did not realize how many steps it took to make it.

I also made a Pear Maple Johnnycake. http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/241521

It was good with vanilla ice cream. It was not a very sweet dish. I would have added more sugar to the pears. It is not your typical American dessert.

My clerk had a death in her family, so I also made chili and cornbread.

Reading…

I finished To Dance With the White Dog. It was for my book club. It was quite enjoyable. I just have to wonder if the dog was his dead wife.

1. quaint

2. charming

3. deep thinking

I moved on to The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao. I had a heard time getting started. I put the book down for now at page 80. I do not like it. It is not easy to read. This book is getting so much wonderful criticism and I just cannot get into it.

Now I am reading the graphic novel, Castle Waiting. It is so far good and intertwined with fairy and folk tales.

Knitting…

Still knitting the Mr.’s sweater. One day I will finish.

Snow and Cooking

2008-01-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

Russ wanting to go out to play in the snow.

Since it is snowing out, I decided to stay in and cook. I am making Tomato Soup and a fancy grilled cheese for lunch. Then I will move on to Irish Stew (from the big yellow bible)for dinner. Also, a banana bread is in the oven.

Smells good in this house.

Knitting...
Still making the Mr.'s sweater.

Books..
I am finishing up To Dance With the White Dog. I am listening to The Book Thief. Even though I have already read it, the audio version is so good.

Published in Print

2008-01-13T13:34:00.000-08:00

It is official I have been published in a professional magazine. My article title is "From Where the Wild Things are to All Quiet on the Western Front" and can be found in the February edition of School Media Monthly Activities. What a pat on the back that is.

Reads
I am still listening to The Picture of Dorian Gray. I am still reading To Dance with the White Dog.

Knits
I have not touched my knitting this week. I have been pooped when I am ready to sit down at night. I have been going to bed instead of knitting, so the Mr.'s sweater will take a while.

Cooks
I am going to make a chicken salad for lunch this week, but have not decided on a recipe.
However I did make some delicious spiced nuts this week for a game night with some friends. All four cups were devoured, so I guess they were good.

Until later....

The Thirteenth Tale

2008-01-08T17:37:00.000-08:00

Reading
I just finished reading The Thirteenth Tale. I decided to start describing books with three words/phrases. I will start with the The Thirteenth Tale.
*good stories
*twins
*twisted endings

I enjoyed this book, but it took me a while to get into it.

I am now reading To Dance with the White Dog. I am listening to The Picture of Dorian Gray.
Cooking
I am glad that I add new recipes that I try to my blog. I wanted to remake Eggplant Au Gratin. I threw away the recipe, but luckily I had added it to my blog.

Knitting
I took a break from the Mr.'s sweater to make some quick cottage socks from Lion's Brand. I did better on the second sock. It took me a long time to figure out how to turn the heel and make the gusset. Thank goodness for You tube. This helped me figure out how to make a sock.

Alsatian New Year's Bread and Chicken Pot Pie

2007-12-30T12:49:00.000-08:00

It is a rainy day here and the end of the year. Time for Alsatian New Year's Bread. This is a tradition that my family makes for the new year. Keep your fingers it comes out right:)

I am also making Chicken Pot Pie from the Big Yellow Bible. This is a great recipe that is not as rich as you think it is. It is quite tasty though.

Reads...
I am currently reading The Thirteenth Tale. I got it for my media center. Nobody was checking it out, so I thought that I would give it a try. It took me a while to get into it, but now I am hooked. I find it quite a bloody good book.

Knits...
I am still knitting the Mr.'s sweater.

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays

2007-12-24T15:23:00.000-08:00

I wish all a happy holiday!

Spiced Nuts

2007-12-16T16:51:00.000-08:00

It has been a while. I have been busy with holiday activities.

I made two new recipes recently. I made spiced nuts to give out as gifts. These nuts are so good. The Mr. loves them. I might have to make another batch.

I also made some Chai Shortbread Cookies. I tripled the spices. They turned out great. Nice and easy.

I finished both Little Children and The Memory Keeper's Daughter.

LC is a period piece. I think that it had a lot of relation to Election; the affair gone bad. The ending makes me think that there can never be happiness.

The MKD was a good read. I read through to see how it would end. I wanted to see how the characters met up in the end.

I am knitting a few Xmas gifts, not as many as I did last year. I am still working on the Mr.'s sweater. It will be a while before I am finished.

Chocolate Biscotti and Russ

2007-12-01T06:25:00.000-08:00

Russ was seriously ill this week. He drank some creek water while on a hike with us. We think that he digested some kine of parasite (perhaps ecoli). He was so sick. After the visit and night at the vet's, he is recovering. Poor pooch, he was sick as a dog.

I made some Chocolate Biscotti. It was so good. Four thumbs up from this house. I did use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet and pecans instead of walnuts. Can you taste yummy?

I am reading The Memory Keeper's Daughter. I am liking. A friend gave it to me because she did not like it. I am finding is an interesting read. I want to find out how it ends.

I am listening to Little Children. It is okay. I was trying to find something that I had read/listened to.

I am now knitting Darrin's sweater. It is a nice green color.

Eggplant and Olive Spread

2007-11-25T07:53:00.000-08:00

I made Eggplant and Olive Spread for a dinner party yesterday. I wish I would have made it in the morning rather than right before dinner. This would have given it a chance for all of the flavors to compliment each other. It did taste mighty good. Next time, I might add a little roasted garlic to it.

Pink Freeze

2007-11-23T06:59:00.000-08:00

My contributrion to Thanksgiving dinner.

Pink Arctic Freeze
2 3 ounce packages cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sugar
1 16 ounce whole cranberry sauce
1 9 ounce crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup heavy cream, whipped
In large bowl, soften the cream cheese. Blend in the mayonnaise and sugar. Add the fruit and nuts. Fold into an 8" x 8" x 2" pan. Freeze until firm, 6 hours or overnight. To serve, let stand at room temperature about 15 minutes, slice and serve.Yield: 10 - 12 servings

MUST READ/LISTEN
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer is a must read for all. It is the first of a series. I loved it. It was such a great book, that I could not stop listening to it. I finished knitting my sweater to listening to this. It is a great love story. I look forward to reading the next of the series, New Moon.

I am reading The Tulip and The Pope. I am reading it for my book club's pick. I think that there is a lot of extra in the book that is not needed to tell the story. I guess I should have known something when the book was not available at three library systems. When I bought the book it was a an old library book from San Francisco.

Knitting
I finished knitting my sweater. I am so excited to wear it. I just need to darn all of the extra strings. I will post a pic when It is done.

Split Pea Soup

2007-11-17T14:54:00.001-08:00

I made split pea soup last night for a girl night in. I add cubes of ham instead of ham hocks. I also just cook it on the stove top for about an hour or so. Tasty and filling.

I started reading The Tulip and the Pope. Just started so more to come.

Sooooooo Long

2007-11-17T14:54:00.000-08:00

Sorry, it has been a while since I posted.

Cooking
I have not cooked many new recipes lately. I did however make a new soup recipe. It is vegetable chowder. It is watery and not the tastiest thing I have ever made. Since I do not plan on making it again, I will not add the recipe to the blog.

The Mr. made carne asada this past weekend. It was good, not enough for leftovers for the two of us.

I did make turkey meatballs and tomato sauce last night. I usually make the sauce with canned whole tomatoes. This time I used diced tomatoes and they did not seem to melt into sauce. From now on it is whole only. Other than that it was good.

Reading
I am still reading Life as We Knew It. I would have finished it, but time change has made me fall asleep sooner then wanted. It has really made me think about what it a disaster did happen to the Earth. How prepared would people be?

I finished listening to Like Water for Chocolate. I liked it. I think that it had that magical essence to it to make it very likeable.

I tried to listen to Ines of My Soul. I usually love anything that Isabel Allende write, but this time I could not go on. I could just not grab onto the story. Maybe I need to come back to it another time. Perhaps the characters were not warm and inviting me to the story.

I am now listening to Twilight by Stephenie Meyer. All the students that have read it have loved it and immediately read the sequel. I have not gotten far yet, but it is leading up to something.

Knitting
I am still knitting my sweater. I finished my class, but not my sweater. I do not have long to go. I hope to finish it during Thanksgiving weekend or before that. I will say that Barber Walkers top down sweater has been quite easy. My next mission will be a sweater for the Mr.

Oyster and Corn Chowder

2007-11-04T14:32:00.000-08:00

I made Oyster and Corn Chowder for dinner the other night. It was good and not too heavy. It is a keeper. Make sure the corn is sweet. The Mr. is making Irish Stew for dinner tonight. Yum!

I am reading Life as We Knew It. It is a what if story about what if the moon was hit by an asteroid and positioned closer to the earth. I am enjoying the story. It is hard to down.

I am listening to Like Water for Chocolate. I have two more CD's to go and am curious of the ending.

2007-10-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

We had a Mexican food feast this week. I made black beans, Spanish rice and fajitas. I miss original Tex-Mex food.I also made salmon and eggplant gratin this past week. Add some fresh minced garlic and pinch of red pepper flakes to the eggplant. I liked it better the second day.

I have gotten a large shipment of books for the media center. I have read several. To name a few: Bucking the Sarge, Ask Me No Questions, Side Effects, and Rules of Survival. Bucking the Sarge is an enjoy light read with some humor. Side Effects was a well written book about a teen surviving chemo and it had some humor in it also. I recommend both. Rules of Survival was also a good read. Ask Me No Questions enlightened me on immigration after 9-11.

I am currently listening to Red Scarf Girl. This is a lot better than I thought it would be. It is about the beginning of socialist take over in China and how the main character lives through it.

I just started to read Life as We Knew It. Cannot comment on the book since I am in the first 20 pages.

It's whats for dinner...

2007-10-15T17:07:00.000-07:00

I made Fennel-Crusted Pork Loin with Roasted Potatoes and Pears this evening for dinner. It was so good. It is a keeper. I found it in Real Simple. Click on the recipe title to get to the recipe. The dinner was not hard to make. We added butternut squash to it and it was too good for words.

The Mr. made butternut squash soup from the big yellow bible. It as delicious and healthy. It will also be made again.

Until our leftovers are gone...

Pfeffernusse

2007-10-14T12:48:00.001-07:00

I made some Pfeffernusse cookies yesterday for our Supper Club Oktoberfest.

Pfeffernusse
2 T butter
2 cups sugar
4 t cloves
4 t cinnamon
2 t nutmeg
pinch of black pepper
4 eggs
3 cups flower
2 t baking powder
1 cup chopped pecans

Cream butter and sugar, then beat in eggs. Mix flour that has been sifted with bp and spices. Stir in pecans. Drop by teaspoonfuls on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Makes about 4 dozen.

Reads

2007-10-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

I just finished The Blood of Flowers. Read It!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was such a great story with so much true detail. I did not realize that it took to author 9 years to complete the book, because she researched the history. This is one of my favorites up there with Daughter of Fortune and The Kite Runner.

Had to stop listening to Under the Banner of Heaven. Too much about the Mormons. Blah, Blah, Blah. I am currently listening to Bucking the Sarge for my school's book club and Ines of My Soul for my pleasure. Just starting both, so I cannot say too much about either.

jambalya

2007-10-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

I made a Jambalaya this week. This is the link to the recipe that we always make. http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_9525,00.html

I finished listening to Love is a Mixed Tape and have moved on to Under the Banner of Heaven. I liked Mixed Tape because it is a honest autobiography/biography. I did cry when his wife died, perhaps it is because the author was reading the book.

Under the Banner of Heaven is interesting. It is about the Mormon Fundamentalist. I am learning much.

Also, I have started a Top Down Sweater knitting class.

That is all for now.

Spaetzle and Flan

2007-09-30T18:15:00.000-07:00

I made Spaetzle tonight. It was so good. I wish I would have known how easy it is. I got the recipe out of the big yellow bible (Gourmet). I had been making to make it,but thought that is was too hard. I was wrong. The last time I had Spaetzle was when I brought some home from Germany. It is just simple dumplings.

I also made some Carmel Custard from the big yellow bible. Too good. The Mr. had a second piece.

The rest of dinner was grilled pork chops and my standard red cabbage.

Until another dinner...

Happy Oktoberfest!

2007-09-29T08:22:00.001-07:00

We grilled some red snapper the other day and made a butter, lemon, garlic and pecan sauce for it. The recipe is in the Big Yellow Bible (aka Gourmet). I also made some broccoli with caper sauce. I guess I was in a butter mood. Both recipes were keepers.

The Mr. brewed some beer, a Newcastle type. Pretty good.

Just finished listening to the Double Bind. I think that it would have been better if a different person would have read it. If you want an ending that catches you off guard, this is the book.

I am now listening to Love is a Mixed Tape. I did not realize that it is a biography. It is pretty interesting, a different take on how to write a bio.

I am reading The Blood of Flowers. It is very enjoyable so far.

I finished The Absolute Truth of a Part-Time Indian. Read it! It might make you laugh out loud.

Happy Oktoberfest!

Chocolate Cake and Pumpkin Tart

2007-09-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

I made a chocolate sheet cake last weekend from a recipe found in Cooking Light. It was a good dessert being that it was not so high in fat. It can be found at http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1654622

I am making a Pumpkin Tart for our supper club tonight. Being that it is the first day of Autumn. It is from Ina Gartner. It is the one of the best desserts that I have ever made. I highly recommend this one. http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_24929,00.html?rsrc=search

On to reading...
I am listening to The Glass Castle and an abridged version of The Double Bind. I am also reading The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. It is great, very recommended.

I just got a huge shipment of books at school. I have cannot wait to get my hands on some of those books.

Well, until next book and meal/dessert...

It's been a while...

2007-09-13T17:07:00.001-07:00

Sorry, I have not written in a while. I am writing an article for a professional magazine.

Russ's surgery was successful. The results are in and he is cancer free according to his biopsy.

Finished listening to Raven's Gate. Currently listening to The Glass Castle. Currently reading Code Orange.

Get back to you later,
Christine

Current Pictures

2007-09-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

I am adding some current pictures. One of Russ' foot with growth. Not the greatest picture.

One of Russ pre-surgery.

One of our new bathroom floor.

One of our new porch flooring.

Decatur Book Festival - Sherman Alexie

2007-09-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

I went to the DBF yesterday and am on my way to it this moring.

I saw Sherman Alexie yesterday. If you have have a chance to see him- do. He is such a talented person. I love to listen to authors speak about their writing. This was one of favorite, up there with Terry Kay, and Aliki to name a few.

TTFN

Chicken Pie

2007-08-30T17:55:00.001-07:00

With the rain we are finally having, I decided to make something soul warming. I just cleaned out the fridge and made a cross between chicken pot pie and fish pie. It was so good. Boiled some carrots and potatoes, separated, and mashed the potatoes. At the same time, sauteed mushrooms, onion, and garlic. When cooked, I made a roux in the mixture. Added the cooked chicken and carrots. When the MR. came home, he decided it needed more sauce, so he made a white cream sauce. We mixed the cream sauce and mixture. Topped it with potatoes and baked for a while at 400.

It was delicious. It reminded me of Jamie Oliver's recipe for fish pie. Yum!!!!

On to reading...
I have discovered Ian McEwan. I was not into Saturday too much, but just finished listening to On Chesil Beach. I loved it. I recommend it. The story line is so full of promise, but takes a turn.

I am still reading Postcards from No Man's Land. I want to know what the surprise will be at the end. Very well written and strong character development.

Decatur's Book Festival is this weekend. My books to read list is going to grow.

Porstcards From No Man's Land

2007-08-26T17:41:00.000-07:00

I am reading Postcards From No Man's Land. It is a very good read. Did not expect such a wonderful read. I give it two thumbs up so far.

I also made Rick Bayless' Lental and Rice Salad for lunch this week. It is one of my favorites. I will have to get the recipe on here. It is spicy, cruchy and tasty. Another two thumbs up.

More for later.

Chicken Breast stuffed with Goat Cheese

2007-08-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

I made a chicken breast stuffed with olives and goat cheese last night. I enjoyed it, though the Mr. did not. My flavors, not his. Here is the recipe. More herbs would have made it better. http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_9267,00.html?rsrc=search

Zuchinni and Baby Kimono

2007-08-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

I am working on a baby kimono. I am attaching a

picture of one that I knitted earlier this year. It turned out real cute.

Since I am posting pictures, I am going to post one of my mom, aunt, grandmother and myself. It is from my visit to SA this summer.

I also made some pork chops marinated in garlic and rosemary last night. The pork was accompanied by mashed potatoes and zuchinni. I found a simple recipe from Ina Gardner. Just saute some onions, then at the zuchinni. When zuchinni is done, add some parma reg. on top and cook for another 30 seconds. It was a fancified version of regular saute zuchinni.

Fallen Man

2007-08-18T09:32:00.001-07:00

I am reading Fallen Man at the moment. It is not a smooth read, but the story is interesting. Where were you on 9-11? It a story about a survivor and the aftermath of it.

Finished knitting a hat and started a baby kimono.