October 29, 2009
October 27, 2009
preparing for a haunted weekend!
I am trying my best to prepare for my weekend. Not only is it Halloween weekend (and one of my favorite holidays), but it is also the weekend I will be experiencing New Orleans for the first time. M, myself and two of our friends will be heading down to NOLA this Friday and staying until Monday morning - man I hope I can hang! We've got a great weekend planned, a great hotel to stay in and I must say we are all fabulous company to be with.
While we are there Voodoo Fest 2009 will be in full swing. I was really excited about this a few months ago, when I thought I'd have the extra money to drop big bucks on some tickets for the all weekend pass (even the single days are pricey). As the weeks between now and leaving grew less, so did my extra spending money. M and I decided to dismiss going to the concert since neither of us could count on more than one hand the bands we actually wanted to see, or hadn't already seen - trust me I can go the rest of my life without seeing Eminem live, ever again (long story short - I was being a supportive girlfriend to my ex by purchasing him and myself tickets to see Eminem live - worst waste of money, ever - at least for me). Needless to say, my heart is a little heavy right now in making the choice to forgo the concert, and for one huge reason only. I really wanted to see KISS. I adore Gene Simmons and the band KISS. Yes, seriously. (For those of you that don't know, I'm a huge classic rock and hair metal/glam metal fan). I'm not ruling the show out, just yet. If I get to New Orleans and I figure out that I can swing a one day pass for Saturday night to see KISS headline Halloween Night - you bet your ass I'm going! I can't pass up a chance to see this man live! I. JUST. CAN'T.
the demon.
This trip has been a long time coming. I had been looking for a reason to head down to NOLA for over 5 years. A reason OTHER than Mardi Gras. I'm sure that celebration is one to witness but honestly I feel like I might be a bit to old for showing my "buddies" for beads. Near as I can tell it's one hell of a ride you rarely remember when you're down there. I truly wanted to experience the town for it's culture, food, sights and music. I had considered going to Jazz Fest a few times, but when Voodoo Fest weekend presented itself - I figured Halloween, in the voodoo capital, with M and some great friends, what could be more creepy? I'm excited to take in all the ghost stories and the walking tours and anything and EVERYTHING we can get into. Even if that means eating my weight in gumbo all weekend long!
I finally "settled" on a costume for Halloween. It's not my first choice but with such a huge chunk of our money going towards the trip, M and I decided to do simple but fun costumes. His is a surprise, but I'm fine with telling mine. All I can say is... "Air raid freshman, or it's your ass!"
Dazed and Confused - SENIORS OF 1977
If you haven't ever watched Dazed and Confused you're truly missing out. It's one of my all time favorite movies. I have to say Parker Posey is my favorite person in this movie. "Lick me, all of you!" Hopefully I can pull off the mean Senior Girl costume with flare. I still need to purchase my ketchup and mustard bottles to carry in my "hippie bag", as well as make my SENIOR 77 sweatshirt. I have also purchased a few other fun items that I hope will make a few people truly realize who I'm trying to be.
Originally I wanted to be a flower child. Something about the 70's is clearly calling me this year, but the outfits I had found at Target in the juniors department had all sold out of my size quickly so plan B seems like more fun and is what I will be rocking... even if I will stick out like a sore thumb at the Gothic-Rave? thing we're supposed to be attending (costume party). Hey, when in Rome, right?
So here's to Halloween and all the 190 Octanes I can handle. Thankfully I've had them before and I know my limit - thank you Fat Tuesdays in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. (See the evil extra shot floating in the top, yes.. it's evil but delicious).
Be safe and enjoy your weekend!
P.S. The Steelers AND Bama have a by week this week. I'm so happy I can party and not miss any football action!
While we are there Voodoo Fest 2009 will be in full swing. I was really excited about this a few months ago, when I thought I'd have the extra money to drop big bucks on some tickets for the all weekend pass (even the single days are pricey). As the weeks between now and leaving grew less, so did my extra spending money. M and I decided to dismiss going to the concert since neither of us could count on more than one hand the bands we actually wanted to see, or hadn't already seen - trust me I can go the rest of my life without seeing Eminem live, ever again (long story short - I was being a supportive girlfriend to my ex by purchasing him and myself tickets to see Eminem live - worst waste of money, ever - at least for me). Needless to say, my heart is a little heavy right now in making the choice to forgo the concert, and for one huge reason only. I really wanted to see KISS. I adore Gene Simmons and the band KISS. Yes, seriously. (For those of you that don't know, I'm a huge classic rock and hair metal/glam metal fan). I'm not ruling the show out, just yet. If I get to New Orleans and I figure out that I can swing a one day pass for Saturday night to see KISS headline Halloween Night - you bet your ass I'm going! I can't pass up a chance to see this man live! I. JUST. CAN'T.
This trip has been a long time coming. I had been looking for a reason to head down to NOLA for over 5 years. A reason OTHER than Mardi Gras. I'm sure that celebration is one to witness but honestly I feel like I might be a bit to old for showing my "buddies" for beads. Near as I can tell it's one hell of a ride you rarely remember when you're down there. I truly wanted to experience the town for it's culture, food, sights and music. I had considered going to Jazz Fest a few times, but when Voodoo Fest weekend presented itself - I figured Halloween, in the voodoo capital, with M and some great friends, what could be more creepy? I'm excited to take in all the ghost stories and the walking tours and anything and EVERYTHING we can get into. Even if that means eating my weight in gumbo all weekend long!
I finally "settled" on a costume for Halloween. It's not my first choice but with such a huge chunk of our money going towards the trip, M and I decided to do simple but fun costumes. His is a surprise, but I'm fine with telling mine. All I can say is... "Air raid freshman, or it's your ass!"
Originally I wanted to be a flower child. Something about the 70's is clearly calling me this year, but the outfits I had found at Target in the juniors department had all sold out of my size quickly so plan B seems like more fun and is what I will be rocking... even if I will stick out like a sore thumb at the Gothic-Rave? thing we're supposed to be attending (costume party). Hey, when in Rome, right?
So here's to Halloween and all the 190 Octanes I can handle. Thankfully I've had them before and I know my limit - thank you Fat Tuesdays in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. (See the evil extra shot floating in the top, yes.. it's evil but delicious).
HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE!
I'll have a full report on my trip to NAWLINS when I get back. Be safe and enjoy your weekend!
P.S. The Steelers AND Bama have a by week this week. I'm so happy I can party and not miss any football action!
October 23, 2009
she's got talent.
Pumpkin Carnage I can't even actually be angry about this. It's too darn creative and cute, even if it is a Raven eating the brains of a Steelers fan. One of my favorite girls, L made this - and I must say I'm floored! L, my love you and all your creativity!!! And I can't wait to see your Halloween costume in all it's glory!
Steel City Afterburner Breakfast
In honor of my Steelers I had to add one more recipe. This made my day and sounds SO freaking good. I don't know how early some of you tailgaters start but THIS would be a great way to start a morning of tailgating in my book! GO STEELERS!
STEEL CITY AFTERBURNER BREAKFAST
from Mike in Pittsburgh, Tailgater
This is a concoction that can be put together in minutes, it's not only filling, it is actually great tasting. Here goes:
2lbs bulk Italian sausage
2 cans of sliced potatoes
2 large onions (chopped)
1 jar salsa
1 dozen eggs
2 dozen large tortillas
1 pkg shredded Mexican cheese
Brown sausage in a large pot (I use a dutch oven on top of an 'afterburner' - I've heard this called a fish cooker, or cajun cooker). This can actually be done at home the day before, but save the grease.
Remove the sausage from grease for time being, and use the grease to saute the onions and potatoes.
Return sausage to pot along with eggs, and salsa. Turn the fire on low and cook (stiring constantly) until the eggs are done to your liking. Spoon from pot onto heated tortilla (I turn the lid of the dutch oven upside down and heat the tortillas on the afterburner) then cover with cheese.
Best if chased with a six pack or two of Iron City Beer.
STEEL CITY AFTERBURNER BREAKFAST
from Mike in Pittsburgh, Tailgater
This is a concoction that can be put together in minutes, it's not only filling, it is actually great tasting. Here goes:
2lbs bulk Italian sausage
2 cans of sliced potatoes
2 large onions (chopped)
1 jar salsa
1 dozen eggs
2 dozen large tortillas
1 pkg shredded Mexican cheese
Brown sausage in a large pot (I use a dutch oven on top of an 'afterburner' - I've heard this called a fish cooker, or cajun cooker). This can actually be done at home the day before, but save the grease.
Remove the sausage from grease for time being, and use the grease to saute the onions and potatoes.
Return sausage to pot along with eggs, and salsa. Turn the fire on low and cook (stiring constantly) until the eggs are done to your liking. Spoon from pot onto heated tortilla (I turn the lid of the dutch oven upside down and heat the tortillas on the afterburner) then cover with cheese.
Best if chased with a six pack or two of Iron City Beer.
Amaretto Bread Pudding
Well it's that time again - Tailgate time. This week M decided he was dying to have more chicken wings to eat during the game on Saturday (Bama vs. Tennessee - ROLL TIDE!). You know me I can't pass up wings. So I figured instead of a repeat on the wings - I'd give you a recipe I found online that sounds absolutely delicious to me! I love, love, LOVE Amaretto liquor (anything that's flavored in almond is OK in my book!). And I have always loved my mother's bread pudding. So for me this is WIN WIN - and I will be making it soon! (If I do I will post pictures). M does not like pudding, or jello or anything as he says that "wiggles" - he has a few other issues with certain foods but we don't need to focus on that (he also hates eggs, yes giggle factor and sunny side up eggs gross him out, and yet they are my favorite!). So here you go - a tasty half time sweet treat for all of you! Happy Tailgating! And as always, ROLL TIDE and GO STEELERS!
BREAD PUDDING
1 10 oz loaf stale French bread, crumbled (or 6-8 cups any type bread)
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups Amaretto
2 cups sugar
8 tsp. butter, melted
3 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
3 cups toasted slivered almonds
2 cups heavy cream
1 tsp. each cinnamon and nutmeg
Combine all ingredients; mixture should be very moist but not soupy. Pour into buttered 9x12" or larger baking dish. Place into non-preheated over. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, until top is golden brown. Served warm with sauce.
AMARETTO SAUCE
8 tsp. butter
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup Amaretto (to taste)
*** You could also substitute the Amaretto with some Almond Extract ***
Cream butter and sugar over medium heat until all butter is absorbed. Remove from heat and blend in egg yolk. Pour in Amaretto gradually to your own taste, stirring constantly. Sauce will thicken as it cools. Serve warm over warm bread pudding.
Yield 16-20 servings..
1 10 oz loaf stale French bread, crumbled (or 6-8 cups any type bread)
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups Amaretto
2 cups sugar
8 tsp. butter, melted
3 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
3 cups toasted slivered almonds
2 cups heavy cream
1 tsp. each cinnamon and nutmeg
Combine all ingredients; mixture should be very moist but not soupy. Pour into buttered 9x12" or larger baking dish. Place into non-preheated over. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, until top is golden brown. Served warm with sauce.
AMARETTO SAUCE
8 tsp. butter
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup Amaretto (to taste)
*** You could also substitute the Amaretto with some Almond Extract ***
Cream butter and sugar over medium heat until all butter is absorbed. Remove from heat and blend in egg yolk. Pour in Amaretto gradually to your own taste, stirring constantly. Sauce will thicken as it cools. Serve warm over warm bread pudding.
Yield 16-20 servings..
October 21, 2009
target. my BFF and my worst enemy all in one.
The title pretty much says it all. Target is my best friend and my worst enemy all in one store. I adore just about everything I see in that place - which then becomes the enemy of my wallet. I should really learn to just go to the store and go directly to where I need to get something and leave. No cart, no basket, just my two hands. I'd get out much cheaper if I followed these rules, and didn't window shop. I can't help it thought. On high note it's a great place to get inspiration, much like Pottery Barn catalogs - and I will admit Target is MUCH cheaper than PB as well. Cheaper but still at times, not quickly affordable or attainable for a girl on a strict budget. That being said the whole point of this is to show the few things at Target that I've been obsessing over since the first time I laid eyes on them.
Obsession #1: This typography area rug caught my eye the minute I saw it. M told me that it would look great in "my room" (meaning the craft room/back bedroom/guest room/workout room/computer room/ woman cave - as in, not the man cave). I agreed.
Obsession #2:
This chair. They have about 6 different fabrics to choose from, so it's still a toss up, but I feel that I NEED this chair, make that two chairs. I would love to have two of these to flank the fireplace but with the odd layout of our living room at this current house that isn't exactly possible unless we ditch the love seat. Note: These chairs are extremely comfortable and I didn't think they would be.
Obsession #3:
I've been searching for a while for a rug to replace the area rug in my kitchen. We got our current rug for a great price (obviously I bought it and didn't cry about it), and it is a BIG area rug, but it's become a bit worn. I wanted to get something new without having to redo the entire look and feel of my kitchen and it's accessories. This rug would fit the bill in a heartbeat. I have tons of reds, yellows, oranges, greens throughout the kitchen. Add to this the all black appliances, and a pale brown paint color on the walls I think this would give a great amount of pop and still go well with what we currently have. Truth be told I'd love to have a very light kitchen with tons of aqua, gray, white and yellow colors but that will have to wait for the moment in time when we actually OWN a home and can change it all to suit our taste and needs.
I guess it's all in moderation and baby steps to get all you desire for your home. After all if I got my house just the way I wanted it right away, there would be no future projects and I'd be bored and want to change it again in a year or two anyway. Trust me, I know me.
Obsession #2:
This chair. They have about 6 different fabrics to choose from, so it's still a toss up, but I feel that I NEED this chair, make that two chairs. I would love to have two of these to flank the fireplace but with the odd layout of our living room at this current house that isn't exactly possible unless we ditch the love seat. Note: These chairs are extremely comfortable and I didn't think they would be.
Obsession #3:
I've been searching for a while for a rug to replace the area rug in my kitchen. We got our current rug for a great price (obviously I bought it and didn't cry about it), and it is a BIG area rug, but it's become a bit worn. I wanted to get something new without having to redo the entire look and feel of my kitchen and it's accessories. This rug would fit the bill in a heartbeat. I have tons of reds, yellows, oranges, greens throughout the kitchen. Add to this the all black appliances, and a pale brown paint color on the walls I think this would give a great amount of pop and still go well with what we currently have. Truth be told I'd love to have a very light kitchen with tons of aqua, gray, white and yellow colors but that will have to wait for the moment in time when we actually OWN a home and can change it all to suit our taste and needs.
I guess it's all in moderation and baby steps to get all you desire for your home. After all if I got my house just the way I wanted it right away, there would be no future projects and I'd be bored and want to change it again in a year or two anyway. Trust me, I know me.
feeling pretty special.
I woke up this morning, late as usual, and took a shower. After my shower each morning and before getting dressed I like to check the weather online (so I can dress accordingly) and I often hit up a few blogs or twitter before moving forward with my day. Today I was so excited to see that I have 20 followers on blogger! It gave me a great feeling to think that 20 different people would be interested in what I was blogging about.
From the bottom of my blogging heart - thank you! I look forward to reading all your blogs as well and have added each of you!
From the bottom of my blogging heart - thank you! I look forward to reading all your blogs as well and have added each of you!
October 19, 2009
favorite comfort foods.
I am feeling a bit under the weather today. It started yesterday - I still can't figure out if it's a cold or allergies but all signs point to head cold - yuk! This evening I'm in the mood for my ultimate favorite comfort food - Tomato soup and a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. Usually M and I eat everything together but I told him tonight, that was my one desire to have and that I was sorry but he would have to fend for himself. Thankfully he's understanding and had already bought a frozen pizza yesterday. This got me thinking about my favorite all time comfort foods, the list isn't too long but it's making my mouth water just thinking about the items on it.
My Favorite Comfort Foods/Treats
What are your favorite comfort foods - and if they are unique or you have a delicious recipe for them - PLEASE SEND ME A LINK!!!
I hope you all had a great weekend! I am exhausted from a great weekend hanging with my father and M and ready to relax and get rid of this darn cold. Vitamin C here I come!
My Favorite Comfort Foods/Treats
- Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese and Saltine Crackers broken up into the soup
- Macaroni and Cheese - I love all different kinds but the ultimate is how my mom used to make it served up with stewed sweet tomatoes.
- Pizza
- Chicken Wings
- STUFFING (as in Thanksgiving stuffing my mom used to make)
- Mashed potatoes (I miss my mother's mashed potatoes - usually every Thanksgiving here in the south we get Sweet Potato Casserole and I'm not complaining but I miss my mom's mashed potatoes, complete with her homemade gravy!)
- Sweet Potato Casserole (it can be candied or with lots of pecans and I still love it)
- Pumpkin Pie
- Apple Pie with Vanilla ice cream
- Apple Butter on toast (or straight from the jar, seriously I eat this stuff like it's Apple sauce)
- Pot Roast with carrots, potatoes, onions etc.
- Prime Rib (huge slab, from my favorite place back home - The Flamming Pit)
- Pasta... Pasta... and more Pasta!
What are your favorite comfort foods - and if they are unique or you have a delicious recipe for them - PLEASE SEND ME A LINK!!!
I hope you all had a great weekend! I am exhausted from a great weekend hanging with my father and M and ready to relax and get rid of this darn cold. Vitamin C here I come!
October 16, 2009
technical difficulties.
You'd think being a graphic designer I'd be a whiz at computer issues, but I'm not.
Our old faithful PC at home crapped out on us the other day. I'm shockingly not freaking out or losing it over this. I should be - years of pictures of M and I as well as all my friends are on that computer. As well as archives of all our homes we lived in and all my blythe dolls etc. Not to mention all my music and many other things I covet. I should be blowing my fuse right now, shouldn't I? But I've been oddly calm. I've started to adapt this way of life the whole "Be Calm and Carry On" thing I guess. I don't freak until it's absolutely needed. This could be a good thing but I worry that I'm going to become a robot. Not good.
Good thing is my blood pressure thanks me - especially now. Turns out the computer can be saved, as can all the information on it (my biggest fear). We will lose some programs but that's no big. Seriously that computer was used for one thing and one thing only... the internet. M and I both own macs but since the dawn of Angus time... we call this (BA, Before Angus), we haven't truly been able to use the macs because that little bugger chewed through the cords to the keyboards. And in our supreme acts of procrastination have not bothered to purchase keyboards for these 2 macs in over 4 years - lazy? Yes you could call us that. Technically we haven't needed the macs - but can't bare to part with them.
My PC had the programs we used at home for fun, Photoshop and Illustrator - we didn't NEED the macs unless we wanted to do some serious design work while at home. We are both graphic designers if I haven't mentioned that already.
Bottom line if I had the money to drop on keyboards - would have bought them already, but there's always something for the house or clothing or food or a vacation that comes up that seems much more important to me than say having a 2nd computer hooked up in the house. We share the PC rather well we don't tend to hog it from the other person so the 2nd machine seems pointless at this moment in time. But as I said we can't bare to part with them - we learned our trade on these computers and as outdated as they can be, we love them.
I'm thankful the PC will hopefully be saved as will all my files in the process. I really thought I might be able to swindle a new laptop out of my father while he's in town this weekend, but now I guess I don't have to. *doe eyes* I had these all prepared in order to ask him for a new lap top if needed.
So we shall see - I probably won't be posting this weekend - but I may take many pictures to make up for that to post ABOUT the weekend next week. As I said my DADDY is in town!!! Yes, I'm daddy's little girl in EVER shape and form of that phrase. I am an only child and spoiled. Well I am spoiled but I don't beg for much if at all, ever. I feel strange about asking for money and things from my parents - they raised me to do for myself at an early age. My father has actually scolded me for NOT asking him for money in a time of need. I wanted to do it myself. I'm a very independent person - unless it comes to cockroaches - I won't kill those myself unless I'm armed with 10 bottles of Raid! Spiders no problem, other bugs... still sort of freak me out and since I live with a guy - I make him handle that but spiders are my duty in the house, he hates them... but I digress.
It will be great to have my dad in town. He's been here one other time, 2 years ago. I've been here for 5 years and it seems like only yesterday I was hugging my dad good-bye and he was telling me not to be in a rush to get married. He loves M, I can tell. They hang out all the time when we are all together. If I'm up stairs getting ready he will sit and chill with M and talk the day away. Last time I was home to visit in Maryland - I had a baby shower to go to for my bestie, Tammy. I was gone for at least three hours - when I got home they were just where I left them watching Dirty Jobs (love that show) and Deadliest Catch marathons. For three hours the drank beer and discussed the shows. Two peas in a reality tv pod.
I hope to get to take him a lot of places this weekend. We have grown very close since my parents divorced when I was 20, wow, over 10 years ago. He's all I have left. After losing my mother last year and my grandmother (dad's mother), the year before I realize that time is very short and hour spent with family are more precious than ever before. My father's family is all I have left. An aunt and uncle, 2 cousins and their families are all I have left in blood relation. Thank goodness for my best friends - I've always said they are the family I've chosen for myself.
So here's to a great weekend - I hope you all have one! I will be spending it with my two favorite men on earth, M and my father!
Our old faithful PC at home crapped out on us the other day. I'm shockingly not freaking out or losing it over this. I should be - years of pictures of M and I as well as all my friends are on that computer. As well as archives of all our homes we lived in and all my blythe dolls etc. Not to mention all my music and many other things I covet. I should be blowing my fuse right now, shouldn't I? But I've been oddly calm. I've started to adapt this way of life the whole "Be Calm and Carry On" thing I guess. I don't freak until it's absolutely needed. This could be a good thing but I worry that I'm going to become a robot. Not good.
Good thing is my blood pressure thanks me - especially now. Turns out the computer can be saved, as can all the information on it (my biggest fear). We will lose some programs but that's no big. Seriously that computer was used for one thing and one thing only... the internet. M and I both own macs but since the dawn of Angus time... we call this (BA, Before Angus), we haven't truly been able to use the macs because that little bugger chewed through the cords to the keyboards. And in our supreme acts of procrastination have not bothered to purchase keyboards for these 2 macs in over 4 years - lazy? Yes you could call us that. Technically we haven't needed the macs - but can't bare to part with them.
My PC had the programs we used at home for fun, Photoshop and Illustrator - we didn't NEED the macs unless we wanted to do some serious design work while at home. We are both graphic designers if I haven't mentioned that already.
Bottom line if I had the money to drop on keyboards - would have bought them already, but there's always something for the house or clothing or food or a vacation that comes up that seems much more important to me than say having a 2nd computer hooked up in the house. We share the PC rather well we don't tend to hog it from the other person so the 2nd machine seems pointless at this moment in time. But as I said we can't bare to part with them - we learned our trade on these computers and as outdated as they can be, we love them.
I'm thankful the PC will hopefully be saved as will all my files in the process. I really thought I might be able to swindle a new laptop out of my father while he's in town this weekend, but now I guess I don't have to. *doe eyes* I had these all prepared in order to ask him for a new lap top if needed.
So we shall see - I probably won't be posting this weekend - but I may take many pictures to make up for that to post ABOUT the weekend next week. As I said my DADDY is in town!!! Yes, I'm daddy's little girl in EVER shape and form of that phrase. I am an only child and spoiled. Well I am spoiled but I don't beg for much if at all, ever. I feel strange about asking for money and things from my parents - they raised me to do for myself at an early age. My father has actually scolded me for NOT asking him for money in a time of need. I wanted to do it myself. I'm a very independent person - unless it comes to cockroaches - I won't kill those myself unless I'm armed with 10 bottles of Raid! Spiders no problem, other bugs... still sort of freak me out and since I live with a guy - I make him handle that but spiders are my duty in the house, he hates them... but I digress.
It will be great to have my dad in town. He's been here one other time, 2 years ago. I've been here for 5 years and it seems like only yesterday I was hugging my dad good-bye and he was telling me not to be in a rush to get married. He loves M, I can tell. They hang out all the time when we are all together. If I'm up stairs getting ready he will sit and chill with M and talk the day away. Last time I was home to visit in Maryland - I had a baby shower to go to for my bestie, Tammy. I was gone for at least three hours - when I got home they were just where I left them watching Dirty Jobs (love that show) and Deadliest Catch marathons. For three hours the drank beer and discussed the shows. Two peas in a reality tv pod.
I hope to get to take him a lot of places this weekend. We have grown very close since my parents divorced when I was 20, wow, over 10 years ago. He's all I have left. After losing my mother last year and my grandmother (dad's mother), the year before I realize that time is very short and hour spent with family are more precious than ever before. My father's family is all I have left. An aunt and uncle, 2 cousins and their families are all I have left in blood relation. Thank goodness for my best friends - I've always said they are the family I've chosen for myself.
So here's to a great weekend - I hope you all have one! I will be spending it with my two favorite men on earth, M and my father!
October 12, 2009
WINGS!
It's that time of the week - preping for tailgate time this weekend. This weekend my dad will be coming to town - I'm so excited I could just spit twinkies! I'm not sure if I'll actually get a chance to watch the game but my guess is he will be game for whatever we toss at him.
I wanted to share the wing recipe that my boyfriend, M and I cooked up a few weeks ago during the Alabama vs. Kentucky game. ROLL TIDE! I had taken a few pictures but they didn't turn out really great, which truly disappointed me, but I do have the important details for you. I do not use the grill - I leave this to M. This isn't because I don't think I can handle it, it's just that it's his thing. Guys enjoy sports, they enjoy grilling - and while I bet I could cook up a mean steak - I'd rather let him do it. Besides things always taste better when someone makes it for you, doesn't it? I mean seriously - you've never made a better pbn'j sandwich than your mom, have you? So here is our collabarative work making grilled chicken wings! (Please note: I'm not a professional photographer - shocking right?)
I've tried to make wings many times before - in the oven. This above all has been my best way to make wings yet! They are crispy and juicy and the grill flavor adds so much to the finished product. I'm always looking for a healthier way to eat my favorite foods. I have never tried to deep fry them - I'm too fearful that I will love them. I will never own a deep frier either for that reason. All it takes is one perfectly fried chicken wing and the next thing you know I'm deep frying twinkies!!!
Please let me know if you have any great tailgate recipes - link me to your page I'm always searching for more!
I won't be eating wings this weekend but I will definitely be front and center for the Alabama vs. South Carolina on Saturday (IT'S HOMECOMING!!!!) and the Pittsburg vs.Cleveland this Sunday!
I wanted to share the wing recipe that my boyfriend, M and I cooked up a few weeks ago during the Alabama vs. Kentucky game. ROLL TIDE! I had taken a few pictures but they didn't turn out really great, which truly disappointed me, but I do have the important details for you. I do not use the grill - I leave this to M. This isn't because I don't think I can handle it, it's just that it's his thing. Guys enjoy sports, they enjoy grilling - and while I bet I could cook up a mean steak - I'd rather let him do it. Besides things always taste better when someone makes it for you, doesn't it? I mean seriously - you've never made a better pbn'j sandwich than your mom, have you? So here is our collabarative work making grilled chicken wings! (Please note: I'm not a professional photographer - shocking right?)
GRILLED HOT WINGS
- Preheat your grill. We use charcol when grilling - I don't like gas grills at all. If you are used to doing your own grilling get the coals or the grill ready. M usually waits until the charcol has a nice white coating and a steady meduim heat going on the grill. As the grill master in your life - if it's not you to get the coals or the grill all ready for you.
- Start with one tray of wings from the store. Usually they are not cut, they will come whole with the wing and the drumette together. If you have the option from a butcher or they sell them already cut then by all means get these - it will make for quicker work.
- Take your time and cut apart the wing and the drumette. Be careful doing this - you should be able to easily pull them apart to figure out where to chop on the joint with out hitting or cutting into the bone. Be careful to remove or disguard any bone bits that you may cut into.
- Wash off the wings (just give them a quick rinse in the sink and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Line a cookie sheet or serving dish with foil and lay wing parts down, space evenly. Usually for us a whole tray of wings fits into one single oversized cookie sheet.
- I usually drizzle some Extra Virgin Olive Oil on the wings and rub it in a bit. This aids in having the spices stick to the wings AND to keep them from sticking to the grill.
- Spice up your wings: You can use anything as simple as salt and pepper or you can get really creative. This past time we used a few different things: McCormick's Grill Mates Chicken Rub, Cavender's All Purpose Greek Seasoning, Lawry's Garlic Pepper, Weber's Grill Creations Kicking Chicken (I'm addicted to this stuff I use it all the time!), as well as salt and pepper.
HELPFUL HINT: M always does this and I always forget to. After you sprinkle this on to one side of the chicken you will have to flip the wings to do the 2nd side - my issue is that I usually shake the stuff straight from the bottle - M is smart, he makes a bowl of all the different spices and mixes them together. That way he can pinch, sprinkle, rub in the spices and flip the chicken - repeat all without having to wash his hands in between or contaminating the spices with chicken funk. He's a smart man! - Once the wings are all ready to rock and roll you are ready to go.
- M grilled the wings over direct heat about 10 minutes on each side and then brought all the wings to the outside of the grill, off direct heat and let them smoke. The wings were done after about 20-25 minutes however I wanted a really crispy crust on the outside. The smoking allowed us to get that without compromising the juicy meat. I think we actually had the wings on the grill, off direct heat for almost an hour!!! Once they are cooked you can just keep checking until they are done the way you like them!
- Once off the grill and brought inside I put some Moore's Wing Sauce in a bowl. You can make your own, or use any type of sauce you choose. I even think BBQ would have been amazing with this. I simply put a little bit in the bottom of the bowl and flipped around the wings a few at a time until evenly coated.
- Serve with celery, carrots, ranch or blue cheese and some beers and get ready for football!
Please let me know if you have any great tailgate recipes - link me to your page I'm always searching for more!
I won't be eating wings this weekend but I will definitely be front and center for the Alabama vs. South Carolina on Saturday (IT'S HOMECOMING!!!!) and the Pittsburg vs.Cleveland this Sunday!
These boots are made for walking.
Every fall I drool over boots. And every year around this time, I never purchase any fun boots. Mostly because I won't wear them everyday. I work in a very casual and industrial work place. Heeled boots aren't really a good idea when working around all the stuff I have to work around (read: messy, dirty, slick and other conditions that would surely ruin these amazing boots). This year I've convinced myself that I will buy myself a pair of rocking boots this year... I think. Honestly I want to find something classic, that will last a few years - that I won't regret taking the price tag off of and wearing. (I've had buyers remorse in the past for items like this, and not been able to return them). And I'd like a boot that only gets better with time. You Ugg fans know what I mean - the outside of your Uggs might be dirty as the hills in the country - but they are STILL comfortable and well worn and admit it - you LOVE them. I want dressy boots that make me feel as comfy and loved as my trusted Uggs do when I slip them on to go grocery shopping.
I've been obsessed with the whole skinny jeans tucked into boots look since they started bringing them back and this is the year I want to finally try this (I'm never one to try trends right away - I'm frugal and I have to see if a trend will last at least a year or so before jumping in). And if the whole skinny jean thing doesn't work out - I will still have a great pair of boots to rock a skirt and some fun tights with, right?
I've only been to one website today - (http://www.victoriassecret.com/) but I still had to share all these drool worthy choices! At least in my book they are...
1. Siren by Mark Nason
I love the western look of this boot.
2. Naughty Monkey D-Ring Boot
(I love the name of that darn boot... it's not really that practical but I really love the boot itself.
3. Madden Girl Buckle Riding Boot
I have obsessed over this type of boot for years - YEARS! I really think this will be the one I try to get in some style, maybe not from the VS website but definitely something close to it.
4. Report ® Buckle Boot
Again - another semi-western boot - sensing a pattern.
5. Slouchy Suede Boot
These take me back to the days of 5th grade. I remember the boots similar to these that were ankle boots. They covered the bottom of your stretch pants perfectly and mine were a nice gray. These look extremely comfortable - can't you just see them with a warm fuzzy sweater?
6. Frye® Harness Boot
These are a variation of my obsession boots (like number 3). I just love the buckle. I love this style with a squared off toe as well.
I hope to find a special pair of boots - but if you're a lady like me when you find boots or shoes you love - you know you can't just by them in one color... if you're like me you need a pair in black AND brown.
Ok - window shopping/internet shopping for boots and jeans done. Actually shopping is my 2nd mission!
I've been obsessed with the whole skinny jeans tucked into boots look since they started bringing them back and this is the year I want to finally try this (I'm never one to try trends right away - I'm frugal and I have to see if a trend will last at least a year or so before jumping in). And if the whole skinny jean thing doesn't work out - I will still have a great pair of boots to rock a skirt and some fun tights with, right?
I've only been to one website today - (http://www.victoriassecret.com/) but I still had to share all these drool worthy choices! At least in my book they are...
1. Siren by Mark NasonI love the western look of this boot.
2. Naughty Monkey D-Ring Boot
(I love the name of that darn boot... it's not really that practical but I really love the boot itself.
3. Madden Girl Buckle Riding Boot
I have obsessed over this type of boot for years - YEARS! I really think this will be the one I try to get in some style, maybe not from the VS website but definitely something close to it.
4. Report ® Buckle Boot
Again - another semi-western boot - sensing a pattern.
5. Slouchy Suede Boot
These take me back to the days of 5th grade. I remember the boots similar to these that were ankle boots. They covered the bottom of your stretch pants perfectly and mine were a nice gray. These look extremely comfortable - can't you just see them with a warm fuzzy sweater?
6. Frye® Harness Boot
These are a variation of my obsession boots (like number 3). I just love the buckle. I love this style with a squared off toe as well.
I hope to find a special pair of boots - but if you're a lady like me when you find boots or shoes you love - you know you can't just by them in one color... if you're like me you need a pair in black AND brown.
Ok - window shopping/internet shopping for boots and jeans done. Actually shopping is my 2nd mission!
October 09, 2009
Are you ready for some football?
Yes ladies and gents it's that time of year again - FOOTBALL SEASON! Sure it started a while back but I haven't been able to truly enjoy it until now. See I work for a printing company and during this time of year we do not one, but 6-7 different local high school and college football programs. This is a daunting task but it pays off in the end - can you say OVERTIME PAY? I'm able to finally enjoy football season right now because I just finished my final cover and roster spread for my one of three high schools that I design books for. So I can finally sit back, watch Alabama play and the Steelers and enjoy not thinking about clip art footballs for another entire year!
I get really excited for football season each year, and now that I can relax and enjoy it you will probably see many posts about this topic.
The big thing I want to try to start doing is each week add some great snacks and tailgate recipes for you gals. I know a few of you are huge football fans and I LOVE IT! So starting this week and hopefully each week until the Championship games and Super Bowl have happened I will share with you... *drum roll*
Most of the recipes featured will be ones you can enjoy in your own home or take to a party. I sadly have never been to a college football game - GASP! I KNOW! And I have only been to one pro pre-season game (Go Skins!). That being said, I will try my best to make some portable options as well - for all you die hard darlings that make it to your teams games, those who camp out and start grilling at 9 AM, I'm here for you. I might be a "Yankee" to most folks here (who actually need a history lesson - I'm from Maryland, south of the Mason Dixon line people), but I've learned that football is SERIOUS business here in the South!
Stay tuned for my grilled Chicken Wing Recipe that M (my boyfriend) and I made last week for the Alabama vs. Kentucky game. ROLL TIDE! M stated that I have perfected the wing in his opinion. I'm a VERY picky wing girl and I loved them. He's on heck of a grill master if I do say so myself. I can grill but I choose not to - that's HIS thing. I've already taken over the kitchen, I'll give him the grill!
So tell me ladies and gents if you're reading... who's your team? What colors do you bleed? Who's your favorite player? Me? Die hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, I have been since high school. I was born and raised in a Washington Redskins household - but my family is from Pennsylvania, and all of my family that still live there are also huge Steelers fans. I do root for the Skins, they will always be my HOME team. No offense to the Ravens, they are a great team, but I already had too much love for the Steelers to jump sides to the Ravens. (Oddly enough I get a TON of grief for this, seeing as Ravens and the Steelers are huge rivals). Fave players? Hands down Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward and I love me some Troy Polamalu. Although Rashard Mendenhall was amazing last week... I may have to snag his jersey if he keeps up this track record!
Fave college team? I've been adopted into the great state of Alabama by my boyfriend and his family and as many of you southern ladies know - when you come to Alabama you have to choose a side. Will you bleed Crimson or Orange? Will you cry for the Eagle or the Elephant? Will you be at war or rolling with the tide? Well it boils down to this... my favorite all time movie besides Wizard of Oz, is Forrest Gump. Forrest played for Alabama University and well - that's where my heart lies. With the Crimson Tide! Favorite player? Hands down Mr. Jones #8! I scream for him every week when he makes a great play "JUUUULLIIIIOOOOO" note: Think Night at the Roxbury "AMEEELLLIOOO".
Not to say that I'm not a fan of Maryland University they are great! GO TERPS! I've just been sucked into the amazing world that is SEC football and I'm not looking back!
HAPPY FOOTBALL SEASON - GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONES TEAMS THIS WEEK!
WATCH OUT DETROIT THE STEELERS ARE COMING FOR YOU! And be on watch Mississippi the Tide is rolling into your town this weekend as well!
RECIPES TO COME!
I get really excited for football season each year, and now that I can relax and enjoy it you will probably see many posts about this topic.
The big thing I want to try to start doing is each week add some great snacks and tailgate recipes for you gals. I know a few of you are huge football fans and I LOVE IT! So starting this week and hopefully each week until the Championship games and Super Bowl have happened I will share with you... *drum roll*
Most of the recipes featured will be ones you can enjoy in your own home or take to a party. I sadly have never been to a college football game - GASP! I KNOW! And I have only been to one pro pre-season game (Go Skins!). That being said, I will try my best to make some portable options as well - for all you die hard darlings that make it to your teams games, those who camp out and start grilling at 9 AM, I'm here for you. I might be a "Yankee" to most folks here (who actually need a history lesson - I'm from Maryland, south of the Mason Dixon line people), but I've learned that football is SERIOUS business here in the South!
Stay tuned for my grilled Chicken Wing Recipe that M (my boyfriend) and I made last week for the Alabama vs. Kentucky game. ROLL TIDE! M stated that I have perfected the wing in his opinion. I'm a VERY picky wing girl and I loved them. He's on heck of a grill master if I do say so myself. I can grill but I choose not to - that's HIS thing. I've already taken over the kitchen, I'll give him the grill!
So tell me ladies and gents if you're reading... who's your team? What colors do you bleed? Who's your favorite player? Me? Die hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, I have been since high school. I was born and raised in a Washington Redskins household - but my family is from Pennsylvania, and all of my family that still live there are also huge Steelers fans. I do root for the Skins, they will always be my HOME team. No offense to the Ravens, they are a great team, but I already had too much love for the Steelers to jump sides to the Ravens. (Oddly enough I get a TON of grief for this, seeing as Ravens and the Steelers are huge rivals). Fave players? Hands down Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward and I love me some Troy Polamalu. Although Rashard Mendenhall was amazing last week... I may have to snag his jersey if he keeps up this track record!
Fave college team? I've been adopted into the great state of Alabama by my boyfriend and his family and as many of you southern ladies know - when you come to Alabama you have to choose a side. Will you bleed Crimson or Orange? Will you cry for the Eagle or the Elephant? Will you be at war or rolling with the tide? Well it boils down to this... my favorite all time movie besides Wizard of Oz, is Forrest Gump. Forrest played for Alabama University and well - that's where my heart lies. With the Crimson Tide! Favorite player? Hands down Mr. Jones #8! I scream for him every week when he makes a great play "JUUUULLIIIIOOOOO" note: Think Night at the Roxbury "AMEEELLLIOOO".
Not to say that I'm not a fan of Maryland University they are great! GO TERPS! I've just been sucked into the amazing world that is SEC football and I'm not looking back!
HAPPY FOOTBALL SEASON - GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONES TEAMS THIS WEEK!
WATCH OUT DETROIT THE STEELERS ARE COMING FOR YOU! And be on watch Mississippi the Tide is rolling into your town this weekend as well!
RECIPES TO COME!
October 07, 2009
skinny jeans 911.
To my readers... and friends... I ask... Can a hippy girl (not the tree hugging/flower child kind - I'm talking Beyonce like woman)... can a hippy girl wear skinny jeans?
I've wanted to try this style since it started. I love ballet flats, I love boots and I love the look of tucking said jeans into boots - BUT, I'm way to worried about trying them on and shattering my hopes and dreams of sporting skinny jeans this fall/winter.
So tell me - ladies, like me with hips - do you sport skinny jeans and if so what brands?
I think I need to call Rachel Ray and let her and her dream team of fashion gurus tell me the answers to "Can I wear this look?"
I've wanted to try this style since it started. I love ballet flats, I love boots and I love the look of tucking said jeans into boots - BUT, I'm way to worried about trying them on and shattering my hopes and dreams of sporting skinny jeans this fall/winter.
So tell me - ladies, like me with hips - do you sport skinny jeans and if so what brands?
I think I need to call Rachel Ray and let her and her dream team of fashion gurus tell me the answers to "Can I wear this look?"
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