a life loverly

{welcome sofi 11.22.10}

2010-11-28T19:05:00.004-07:00

Welcome baby Sofi. We love you more than anything in the world.
Best Thanksgiving. Ever. We have so much for which to be grateful. You are the most amazing thing that has ever happened to us. We love you.

{hello...goodbye}

2010-11-08T13:31:00.005-07:00

Why haven't you been in my life these last few years?
I have missed your sound oh so much.

{thanks}

2010-11-02T20:14:00.005-06:00

image via {dallas clayton}

Thanks to everyone for all your love as of late.

I feel like we must know the greatest people in the world.

{acorn}

2010-10-05T18:08:00.003-06:00

You should try this recipe. It's good. I made some homemade whole-grain corn bread and added some olives to the finished stuffing. D and I had to split one half because they were so filling. That means lunch or dinner another day is covered from half number 2. Sweet.

{made up words}

2010-10-04T18:31:00.000-06:00

Gubernatorial. Seriously?

{the great poppyseed catastrophe}

2010-10-02T12:23:00.004-06:00

In planning our meals for the week, I decided I really wanted a strawberry and spinach salad (in hopes of recreating an old Zupas favorite...how I wish they would come to St. George). So, I rounded up the necessary ingredients to prepare a dressing which I have been meaning to try for some time. I filled a mini dish with poppy seeds and put the dish in the cupboard so Thelonius wouldn't be able to get to it. A few minutes later, I opened the cupboard to put clean dishes away, when small dishes of poppy seed and cinnamon came raining down from above. I have a terrible habit of stacking due to the lack of space in our current living space. Covered in cinnamon and seeds (at least I smelled good), D comes over laughing and proceeds to help me clean them up and offers to retrieve some more poppy seeds. He brought back a mini dish of seeds and I proceeded to leave them on the counter, forgetting that a mischievous cat also happens to live here too. I made the candied almonds and went to bed, never remembering to put away the seeds. The following morning, much to my dismay (and almost surprise), I found poppy seeds everywhere. Again. Once again my fault.

Eventually things came together and I pulled together the dressing and had my salad that day. It was glorious and worth every poppy seed catastrophe of the previous day. AND it fulfilled my craving for Zupas salad (for now). As mentioned in the recipe, this salad would be good with feta and/or the addition of some grilled chicken. I love freshly minced/grated garlic for its savory and spicy kick. I cut down the sugar and used regular yellow onion. I think honey would make a really great floral-y substitute for the sugar too, if you feel so inclined.

I guess this was my good-bye to summer. It is officially October, so Fall foods will moving in full force.

{conditioning and beans}

2010-10-01T11:39:00.009-06:00

So I took a psych class this summer (by far my least favorite subject...I have never heard so many excuses in my life), but I have to admit there were some cool highlights during those weeks. We talked a lot about classical conditioning. My teacher would talk about ways that he would condition (manipulate? just kidding...they were funny) his wife to like football (more) through cuddling/affection. I would come home and tell D all these stories and we would tease each other about how effective crab would be in these situations.

beautiful? not even a little...but so good!
So...for the past few months when I come home from work, D and I will go to the gas station to get a soda for him (it's his favorite thing and apparently this place is a full 23 flavors- the best). This usually happens a few times a week. The timing usually works out such that I am starving when I get home from work or D is rushing to get to school and needs to eat something quickly. Since there are some really good and cheap bean burritos right across the street from the gas station, we have been stopping there more often than we should (bean burritos are embarrassingly easy to make...we have been lazy to the max). Realizing the dumbness of the idea, I resolved to using our massive bean storage on a regular basis to make "un-refried" beans for quick, healthier, and cheaper burrito eating. We used to be really good at this, but I was always so tired that first trimester that it didn't happen. Bad excuse. To this day, everytime we go to the gas station, I have this massive craving for a bean burrito. Every time without fail. It's funny how we can unconsciously condition ourselves to certain things. Have you had a similar experience?

no frills here
This refried-bean-without-the-refry recipe is pure awesomeness and combined with a good whole wheat tortilla and hot sauce, makes the perfect, simple bean burrito. I mean amazing. It took me awhile to find the tortilla I liked (Flat Outs just don't work for burritos), but now it's perfect and healthy. Lots of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. You can use black, pinto, or a mix of both. We like to mix the two, but we need to use our dried black beans and I'm too cheap to go buy pintos. Most of the time I skip the black pepper for easiness sake. The onion gets so soft that it disappears into the beans when you mash them which is perfect for onion texture haters like D. In fact, I have another batch in the slow cooker as we speak...

{more dreams and a bench)

2010-09-30T09:45:00.007-06:00

You know those dreams you have as a kid- the one where you go to school naked or in your underwear? I haven't had one of those for a long time. Until last night. I dreamt I went everywhere in my underwear and only one person said anything. You can only imagine the embarrassment with which I woke this morning...

On another note, D has been working hard on a bench for the end of our bed. He has been talking about doing so for the longest time (D loves to work with wood). So a few weekends ago, we bought the supplies and he got to work. Most of the time, D doesn't have any opinion and could care less on most things for our home, but D had a really specific image in his head of what he wanted for this bench. So I figured he could go to town and pretty much do what he wanted. It had to open and be deep enough to store winter blankets in the spring and summer. It looks and feels really nice and he is oh so proud. Now we are just trying to find the perfect fabric that won't cost an arm and a leg. In the mean time, we have just draped a quilt over the top.
Good job, D!

{dishtowels}

2010-09-28T22:10:00.005-06:00

beautiful towels via {studiopatro}

I feel like this was funny enough that I wanted to make note of it. I talk in my sleep a lot, and D usually gets a big kick out of it. If I don't wake up mid sleep talk, then I always hear about it the next morning. I hate to think I have forgotten so many strange ones. So for future posterity, here it is:

I had a dream last night that D and I were cooking something, somewhere (I think it involved a lot of flour). It was fairly messy so we tried to clean up as we went. So I look at D and say, "D, you don't need to use a new towel every time you clean up. I really don't want to have to do the laundry again, and you've nearly used all my towels" (I hate doing laundry, by the way. I put it off as long as possible). So D looks at me with a mischievous smile, grabs another clean towel and proceeds to wipe off the counter. "No, please don't, D. That's so mean." The next thing I know I am half awake, repeating myself over and over until I realize I am awake and D is laughing hysterically.

So weird. Who knew one could worry so much about dishtowels. I must be crazy.

{weather}

2010-09-28T09:14:00.005-06:00

		High / Low (°F)	Precip. %
Today Sep 28	Mostly Sunny	104°/70°	0 %
Wed Sep 29	Sunny	103°/70°	0 %
Thu Sep 30	Mostly Sunny	103°/70°	0 %
Fri Oct 01	Mostly Sunny	100°/68°	0 %
Sat Oct 02	Sunny	98°/66°	0 %
Sun Oct 03	Mostly Sunny	91°/64°	0 %
Mon Oct 04	PM T-Storms	88°/59°	40 %
Tue Oct 05	Scattered T-Storms	91°/62°	60 %
Wed Oct 06	Scattered T-Storms	91°/58°	60 %
Thu Oct 07	Partly Cloudy	87°/61°	10 %

via weather.com

This is the 10-day forecast for old St. George-y. Thunderstorms?! What a dream! That is exactly what we need around here. Yay :)

A 10-day forecast is kind of asking for a lot, but hopefully it'll be accurate...

{smells}

2010-09-23T11:32:00.006-06:00

image via {donna}

As I walked into the grocery store this morning, all I could smell was warm, spiced apple cider. Then as I picked up my yogurt (next to the butcher), they were cooking fresh bacon. Finally, while walking out of the store so fast to avoid buying everything I smelled ("stick to the list, stick to the list"), the smell of glazed ham was everywhere.

Fall is officially here, though you wouldn't know it from the temperatures here.

And so are the brilliant store managers.

It's funny how smells can determine so many things and transport you a million places at once. I could have sworn it was Thanksgiving season this morning.

I am looking forward to:
oranges and reds
turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes
Brussels sprouts
squash and sweet potatoes
cranberries
cider and hot chocolate
tamales
kale
corn mazes
rain
Christmas music (I turned it on the other day)
and of course, everything about the holidays in general

{a nap-py a day..}

2010-09-21T16:15:00.004-06:00

and who does it better than Thelonius?
A nap-py a day keeps the yawning at bay. It's been harder and harder to sleep all the way through the night. Maybe this is why new moms must get up during the first few months? Maybe it is really so new moms don't get bored at night until their bodies return to quasi-normal sleep function mode? Okay, probably not. I don't actually know what I'm talking about. But taking naps (which I haven't done since freshman year of college), has become more and more frequent and has made the lack of sleep during the night more bearable. At least I feel more balanced since I've started taking them.

I think you apply could apply this "pattern" to a lot of other things:

Some sugar (or chocolate) a day keeps the cravings at bay.

or

Working each day keeps the boredom away (working meaning productivity in any manner).

I don't know. I guess I like rhyming today. And napping.

{no artichokes}

2010-09-18T08:47:00.003-06:00

image via {here}

Artichokes were almost $2.50 each yesterday. Needless to say, I did not buy any. That's what I get for craving artichokes in September.

We will probably be replacing our artichoke meal with either veggie omelets or leftovers from a previous night, if there are any. I am a master of not cooking leftovers because I dread them so much. I'm weird, I know. Unless I can use the leftovers in a totally different way or it's something like a pot roast and mashed potatoes, I have a pretty hard time eating it. I think it has something to do with the cold smell when you open the container. I get nauseous just thinking about it.

Edmamme is surprisingly expensive too. No edmamme for me either.

{weekly menu}

2010-09-17T10:21:00.008-06:00

image via {realsimple}*

I think about food and cooking a lot, in case you haven't noticed. While D was asleep this morning (today was my sleep-in day...hello 8 am, I don't believe we've met for some time), I did a quick survey of our cupboards and fridge, making note of what was available and needed to be used. I have had this goal of clearing out our cupboards since we could be moving anywhere come December (and who wants to move food or let it go to waste...not me). It's some kind of game I play every week, and I get super excited when it's gone well. So I came up with a weekly plan to use what we have this upcoming week and mix in those things from my list that fit into the weekly grocery budget. Right now, it is as follows:

Saturday: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells (we have a lot of spinach, pasta, and sauce)*
Sunday: Veggie Pot Pie (carrots, parsnip, phyllo, peas, spinach from the fridge)
Monday: Artichokes (I just really want these)
Tuesday: Spinach and Zucchini Soup (zucchini and spinach from the fridge)
Wednesday: Mushroom "Sushi" (using quinoa that's been hanging out)
Thursday: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Friday: we leave this open in case we eat with the Halls and bring whatever will go with what they are cooking
Saturday: Pizza (use up spaghetti sauce, whole wheat flour, spinach, other veg)
Sunday: black bean enchiladas (tons of beans, flour para tortillas)

For lunches and breakfast, there is always:
hummus wraps
crepes (frozen berries, flour and yogurt)
oatmeal (we have oats)
yogurt with crunchy baked quinoa
Flat Out pizzas (spaghetti sauce plus some I intend to make)
pasta with spinach pesto and sun dried tomatoes (always have spinach)
black bean burritos (many, many black beans here)

*I can't remember where I originally found the recipe, but this one is pretty close. We use almost double the spinach per serving and a heck of a lot less cheese. Just enough ricotta to hold it together and barely any mozz, if any. Definitely more sauce as well. A spoonful of pesto or Italian type seasoning mixed with the ricotta and spinach really amps up the flavor.

{squash}

2010-09-16T18:33:00.004-06:00

One of the best things about fall is the squash. I could eat it almost every day. That and Brussels sprouts. There's something about the magic of roasting that brings out the very best in every winter vegetable. But this. This is my very favorite way to eat my winter veggies. We ate it so often last winter (and summer..and fall), that I was sure we would turn orange. There's something about butternut squash, a bit of oil, salt, coriander, cumin, cayenne, ginger, and cinnamon roasted at 425F for an hour that is just...perfect. The squash gets crispy (not quite burnt) on the outside and so smooth and creamy on the inside. Then the sweet squash and spicey rub make the taste buds in my mouth go totally nuts. It's amazing. Enough said. When squash goes on sale, you know where to find me.

PS If you don't finish the whole squash and are worried about reheating, try this: Either throw the leftovers in a food processor or mash up with a potato masher and throw in a tortilla or between two, sprinkle with a little pepper jack cheese (or none at all) and basically whatever else you want and cook it like you would a quesadilla. So good.

{the countdown: no. 1}

2010-09-16T12:46:00.002-06:00

4 1/2 weeks (32 days to be exact) until we find out whether our little one is a boy or girl!

The first countdown has begun...

{grocery list}

2010-09-14T19:49:00.007-06:00

I would love to get my hands on a copy of this book

My current cravings and hopeful grocery list for next week:
*artichokes
*artisan wheat bread (will probably end up making this)
*portobello mushrooms (I think I dream of mushrooms and intend to try out this recipe)
*avocado
*yogurt
*berries (frozen would be okay)
*edamamme

I already have my butternut squash, spinach, and super grainy mustard that I have been dying to use on hand. Yum yum. Plans for homemade trail mix and soft whole wheat pretzels are also in the mix.

Here's to hoping for awesome sales this week to fit my list into my budget. Crossing my fingers!

Also, got a hold of this beauty this week, thanks to Linne. I am really going to have to force myself to go to bed tonight...5am comes much too quickly. So addicting!

{pita face}

2010-09-08T14:15:00.005-06:00

Back when D and I used to live in Provo, we would nearly weekly visit our favorite place- The Pita Pit. It was our compromise between Subway and...well, just not Subway. Plus, it was ridiculously close to our apartment. I would get the whole wheat pita stuffed with grilled mushrooms, hummus, and every other vegetable they could fit and D would get the turkey with his preferred veggies. While lying in bed the other night, I thought to myself, "why haven't we Pita Pit-ed it up at home?" So the next day we did. And we have been doing so almost every day ever since. We are definitely creatures of habit. As long as it's a good habit, it's okay, right? So today for dinner, what did we have? A pita wrap...except not... because I used Flat Outs. Sooo delicious. Mine included spicy hummus, arugula, sauteed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, pickles, and topped off with a little avocado. Maybe the best part about making these at home- I get avocado, tastier hummus, and they're cheaper!

This hummus is probably the best I've ever had. Baba Foods comes once every 3-5 months to our Costco with hands down the best hummus ever. Since you have to buy three (which is never a problem to eat through in our house), I get the Spicy Pepper, Cilantro Jalapeno (they didn't have it this time), and Roasted Garlic. Heaven.

{calzones round 2}

2010-09-06T17:46:00.013-06:00

The last time I tried making calzones turned out to be an utter failure. I don't remember the filling, but I do remember making 100% whole wheat dough. Now, I am not knocking the whole wheat. I love it as normal pizza, but for whatever reason, it really killed those calzones for me . Tonight, however, I went with a basic pizza dough that I only rolled in whole wheat flour (it was the closest at the time I was rolling it out). D said we should gradually replace the 10% of the regular flour, with whole wheat at a time to find out how much whole wheat we can handle. Pretty awesome idea, I think. I stuffed it with broccoli pesto, shredded chicken, and mozzarella and dipped in marinara. It was so good. So good. You should note that these turned out much larger than expected, so for a D and me sized family, that meant splitting one. A nice green salad really balances it out.

I went especially easy on the chicken and mozzarella, and I think I will use regular chopped up broccoli the next time. The chicken was fine but I really haven't been into it, as of late. I would just as soon have left it out. I think I would love to make a mushroom, spinach and mozz version. That's just more my thing, I think. Though, I bet these would be fantastic dipped in a nice alfredo sauce, if that is your thing (white sauces have always freaked me out...too cheesy and gooey). These were seriously good. A great way to use up anything in the fridge. I hate wasting food, so we knocked out 3 birds in one stone that had been taking up space in our minuscule ice box that calls itself a fridge.
Yum :)

{peach days}

2010-09-05T08:04:00.011-06:00

Yesterday, D and I went out to Hurricane for their annual Peach Days festival. It was way bigger than any other festival I have been to thus far in Southern Utah, and stuck to the peach theme better than Enterprise and their corn. This festival had a peach cook off and recipe, peach cobbler, and fresh peaches. I would say that was a much better attempt at celebrating some kind of produce, but in need of some major help. The peach cobbler was decent, but I found out it was made from store bought canned peaches. Totally unacceptable at a peach festival. Still, it was really fun to walk around, explore, and people watch. Always good people watching at these kinds of places.

There was some really yummy dutch oven cooking going on at the front of the fair. The samples of potatoes were delish.
There was an old combustion engine powered ice cream churner (according to D). So cool.
A roasting pig. The guy told me it takes 4-5 hours to cook a whole pig.
We parked by the cutest house with the most perfect brick. We thought something was up with it from the looks of it.
Come to find out, the bricks were all painted.

It was a fun day and I'm looking forward to the rest of the festivities in Southern Utah over the next few months. My calendar is marked and ready to go.

{one request}

2010-09-04T10:37:00.003-06:00

image via {blancucha...my fave}

I only have one request for the day:

Rain, please.

{dear pho}

2010-09-03T12:58:00.007-06:00

image via {steamykitchen}*

Dear Pho,
I have been craving you all week.
Did you know I have the best husband ever?
Call from D at 12:57pm today (he just got out of his 1st class):

D: "Hey, have you eaten lunch yet?"

S: "No. Not yet." I figured I would wait until I picked him up from school. Eating together is much more fun than eating by oneself.

D: "Okay, let's go get pho after."

Thank you, dear husband. You are the very best. And for more than just taking me out for pho. Although this totally gives you major brownie point-age.

I can taste the pho already.

*PS. If you have never eaten pho, the meat is not that red. It is cooked all the way through. Don't be scared. I think it just made a prettier picture.

{tomato crop}

2010-08-30T16:10:00.004-06:00

I am proud to say my "crop" (am I even using that properly?) of tomatoes finally came in. I was so pleased that the combination of a St. George summer and my lack of a green thumb didn't manage to kill this thing before now. Granted the tomatoes are awfully small, they look so dang cute and are perfect for my favorite salad of the moment. Hopefully the other little guys will continue to ripen too. I will just have to keep reminding myself to water, water, water! I will consider this my big summer accomplishment :)

{enterprise}

2010-08-30T09:46:00.013-06:00

Saturday was the annual Enterprise Corn Festival. I had never been to Enterprise before, so I had no idea what to expect. I will just tell you that it is one of the smallest towns I have ever been to. Beats Rexburg. Little did I realize that it also takes about a hour to get to, when I had thought it was only a half hour away. The drive was really pretty though, and it was a nice chance to see things outside of St. George since we don't get the opportunity very often.

There were goats to pet. I want one.
Lots of booths. Mostly knives, airsoft guns, and tutus. I guess that's what they do in Enterprise...?
And my favorite booth...Bikers Against Child Abuse :)
Mas (con un acento) goats. Still want one.
This awesome band. I like the guy on the furthest right.
Cute wiener dogs. I also want one of these.
And of course, we had to get some corn. It was the Corn Festival afterall. The funny thing is that only one food booth was selling corn. Unless you count the popcorn (also only one booth). Weird.

It was a fun trip. I love festivities :)

{probar}

2010-08-26T18:56:00.009-06:00

I just have to post this because I think Probar may have the best customer service ever!

I have been a fan of these for awhile, though I have only ever bought a few since they are a bit pricey. They are the most delicious bars I have ever eaten. Good, clean ingredients, tasty= perfect breakfast for those 4am or 5am mornings when you are at work and pregnant. I had a question/concern the other day and wrote up an email to the company. Customer service emailed me within the day and offered to mail me some of my favorite flavors. I was just excited they got back to me so quickly and couldn't believe they offered to send me some of my favorites. I thought they would just send one or two (which was totally exciting), but then I got the package in the mail today and it had 12 bars! I am a Probar lover for life. I probably would have been anyway since they are so yummy, but 12! Seriously. I am floored. Thanks, Probar!

*their well designed package is just an added bonus...lovely

{3}

2010-08-18T21:25:00.006-06:00

Happy 3rd anniversary to the best husband ever. We love each other :)

In other news...we're pregnant! And so excited!

{pot pie}

2010-08-16T12:57:00.008-06:00

It's been over a month, and there has been a lot and yet not so much going on. My toe nail is almost fully recovered. I can finally use that pedicure gift certificate that has been sitting on the counter for two months. So exciting!

Please excuse the fact that I look like I am on drugs in the picture below. We made the most amazing pot pie the other night, and D wanted to take some pictures. This is what resulted, though he ensures me that I do not look like a druggie. But whatever, I posted it anyway despite the potential for future blackmail all in the name of delicious pot pie. The pie looks dang good and tasted even better. I love pot pie, and this gives Marie a run for her money. We usually include some chicken, but we didn't have any stocked in the fridge nor was I in the mood...SO I used a mixture of parsnip, peas, and carrots (we didn't have any leeks/onions, green beans, or celery). I also used double the phyllo since we go gaga over the crispy topping. Phyllo kicks pie crust any day- or at least I think so (I have never liked pie crust much...I usually just eat the lovely pumpkin custard inside). Just beware that it does need major salt-age. Usually, we just sprinkle a bit on top. So good. So good, in fact, that I felt like I needed to blog...and that obviously has not been a priority for some time :)

Maybe I will get back to being better at posting...

{put your feet up and rest awhile}

2010-07-06T10:09:00.003-06:00

Could I be any more clumsy?

Why yes, in fact I can! Today at work I managed to roll my giant roller chair over my big left toe. I fought back the tears and got myself a band aid. It still throbs oh so badly. Hoping the nail will heal relatively quickly :)

So if you ever find yourself asking, "could Sarah possibly get any more clumsy?" Just remember- yes, yes she always can!

{pataters}

2010-06-04T20:24:00.002-06:00

It feels like I haven't blogged in ages...oh wait, that's because I haven't!

We are still around. Just up to no good..just kidding ;) Lots of pictures to come soon. For now I will just leave you with a picture of some mmmm potato tacos we had for dinner tonight. They had some potatoes, red bell pepper, garlic, cabbage (courtesy of the Bodilys), tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Super colorful and a great source of my daily vegetable quota. Yum.

{i am not a robot}

2010-05-13T15:31:00.004-06:00

I am loving this song today. And I love robots. Very much so. I think it can be easy to feel like a robot at times...but then there are those moments where you really feel alive. And I do. I love to feel alive. Everyday.

{mama}

2010-05-09T13:36:00.004-06:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers in my life- I am lucky to have you. I love you dearly :)

{stuffed}

2010-05-07T19:07:00.003-06:00

I had a predicament on my hands this week. I had a bunch of leftover mushrooms and tomatoes left over from the graduation party this last weekend, and I haven't been quite sure what to do as D doesn't particularly love either vegetable. We had success with the tomato soup. Then miracles happened when I stuffed some mushrooms three nights ago. Oh my gosh. I was so mad I didn't whip out the camera. They were delicious! So, I decided I would try my luck with stuffed tomatoes tonight. While I loved them, D was not a fan (too much tomato-ness), though I will admit the mushrooms won my heart over a million times. We also didn't time the potatoes quite perfectly either, but it still tasted delicious. Here's the basic recipe for stuffed mushrooms- the principle is the same for the tomatoes, though I would recommend cooking them much longer :)

Mushrooms (I used baby portobellos)
onion, finely chopped
garlic, finely minced
whole wheat bread crumbs
spinach, finely chopped
olive oil
salt and pepper
Parmesan

Pull out the mushroom stems and chop finely.
Using very little olive oil, saute the onions and garlic until soft.
Add the chopped mushroom stems and saute until soft.
Add in spinach and bread crumbs until you reach a nice crumbly consistency, add water/broth as needed.
Use a spoon to scoop out enough mixture to tightly stuff into each mushroom.
Place mushrooms on a lightly greased baking sheet (I used Pam).
Sprinkle grated Parmesan over mushrooms.
Baked at 350 F for 30 minutes or so until golden and crisp on top.
Yum!

Feel free to add spices if you want! I added dill to the tomatoes which was awesome.

{oh ina}

2010-05-03T18:48:00.004-06:00

I tried Ina's Roasted Tomato Basil Soup today, and it was really delicious. I love that this soup contains no cream, and I opted to forgo the butter. I used Roma tomatoes since I had them on hand, but I can see why Ina recommends the plum...I think they would give a subtle sweetness that I would have liked. Though I do think it would be delicious with a small can of fat-free evaporated milk. All in all an awesome recipe. I am looking forward to eating this stuff all week. Yum, yum, yum :)

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup by Ina Garten

3 pounds ripe plum tomatoes, cut in half lengthwise
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons good olive oil
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
2 cups chopped yellow onions (2 onions)
6 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (I substituted olive oil)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 (28-ounce) canned plum tomatoes, with their juice
4 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 quart chicken stock or water

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Toss together the tomatoes, 1/4 cup olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the tomatoes in 1 layer on a baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes. In an 8-quart stockpot over medium heat, saute the onions and garlic with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the butter, and red pepper flakes for 10 minutes, until the onions start to brown. Add the canned tomatoes, basil, thyme, and chicken stock. Add the oven-roasted tomatoes, including the liquid on the baking sheet. Bring to a boil and simmer uncovered for 40 minutes. Pass through a food mill fitted with the coarsest blade (I used an immersion blender). Taste for seasonings.

{done?}

2010-05-02T15:38:00.009-06:00

Well, this weekend was it. Finito. El fin. No mas! I have to say that while I am relieved to be done with the intense stress of homework and tests, I do feel a bit at a loss- like I am missing something. I really liked school (most of the time), and I feel a bit aimless now in my wandering. We'll see how long that lasts. I miss it already.

This is how I feel.
I was so lucky to have my family come and support me (the Halls, Calders, Hendrys). I love my family. They are undoubtedly the best ever. I feel especially grateful for my good parents and husband, without whom I could not have done anything.

Thanks to everyone for all your support for me. I am forever grateful.

{straws}

2010-04-28T10:58:00.002-06:00

image via {here}

Today I would very much like a set of these stainless steel straws for my morning smoothies...

{got it}

2010-04-26T18:14:00.005-06:00

Bad picture (it was from my phone), but here are the delicious and ever-so-perfect coconut cupcakes I ate from Sprinkles with Becca and Porter.

Just what I needed :)

{experimental bio}

2010-04-25T20:59:00.013-06:00

I have been in Anaheim this week for a conference for school. The family and Becca came to support me on Sunday at our poster presentation. This is us outside of the convention center.

Our awesome team: my mentor/professor, Cindy and and friend and fellow student, Laura.

She is awesome.

Yes, I am a nerd. You should have known that by now ;)

This is me explaining my poster to the fam.

{coconut cravings}

2010-04-20T20:41:00.002-06:00

image via {stephmodo}

I could really go for a coconut cupcake tonight....

{lazy man's dinner}

2010-04-20T19:34:00.006-06:00

Tonight, I did not feel like cooking much and I really didn't want anything heavy. This is all I craved and therefore what we ended up eating. It was delicious!

P.S. My ring always manages to swing around like that...probably because the air was a bit chilly!
It all started with some warmed up corn tortillas...
topped with some hummus...
and a fresh veggie platter

Perfection!

{new bag}

2010-04-20T16:12:00.007-06:00

After work and school stuff today, I decided I wanted another little sewing project. Since I will be coming to California this weekend for this, I decided the coming trip would require more than two pairs of shoes. Since I have only made one shoe bag previously, I knew I needed to make at least one more. A quick look through my fabric bag, and I finally decided on this lovely stuff. You'll notice this bag turned out much larger than the last because I actually stuck to Martha's measurements (last time I made a few changes since I didn't have enough fabric as required by Martha). I think it turned out pretty cute.

I love this fabric. I first bought it to make a springy skirt last skirt and have had the fabric laying around ever since. This seemed the perfect use!
I know Martha didn't call for the zig zaggity stitch I used here, but I can't get enough of it, so I just use it whenever I want :)
It'll be perfect to house this little beauties that my awesome mom surprised me with the last time we came to town. Thanks, Madre!

I guess I need a new sewing project...you can only use so many bags...plus my remaining fabric is in much smaller pieces...

{tuxedos}

2010-04-18T14:38:00.003-06:00

I have been watching March of the Penguins for the first time today. I love it. Now I want to be friends with a penguin...and Morgan Freeman.

Seriously. Aren't those little guys the cutest?

{oh me, oh my}

2010-04-14T16:13:00.001-06:00

via {papersource}

Oh my life! I love these matrushka measuring cups. So cute! I wish I needed them :)

{whatcha been up to}

2010-04-14T13:51:00.012-06:00

Another one of those summary posts...

A few weeks ago was James' soccer game (I am particularly fond of this picture) and the big birthday party for Miri and James. We had an awesome time flying kites (I don't remember it involving so much running...fun...but a lot more involved than I thought).

In the last week, I went to Ogden for school and back to good old St. George, then down to the Heights and back again. The second trip lasted a mere 26 hours to be exact. In about 4 days, I spent about 22 hours in the car...or basically 1 of the 4 days in the car. Looking forward to staying put for another week or so...

Other than the usual (i.e. work and school), D and I have become sewing/crafting fanatics- loosely speaking. I made a present for the mama for Mother's Day, a shoe bag for my week of trips, a little tote and headband for a friend, and lastly a mini tote for myself out of some plain muslin and cotton I have had laying around for the last year. This is the shoe bag and tote I made for myself. Since the fabric was so plain, I kind of got into the whole monogramming thing. I didn't even think to take pictures of the other two. Neither project was really complicated, but I feel like I learned a lot and got something useful from it too. I think my skills have improved...my seams are a lot straighter and cleaner. Now if I can just get my hands on some more colorful fabric (on the cheap or free), I would really like to try my skills on some other projects...
D, on the other hand, has had this itch to go paintballing for months and after finally finding a spot to go down here, has been eagerly prepping his equipment.
Instead of lugging around a million bags, he finally settled on a cheap bag at the store and took the customizing into his own hands. If you can't tell, he added a bunch of straps to the bag to more snuggly hold the paintball gun and other pieces. Then, he decided he wanted some kind of belt with which to hold his paintballs more efficiently on the field while he runs around like a crazy person. So that is the solution he came up with. D is pretty creative when it comes to designing stuff like this...I am always impressed.
You can imagine we have taken various trips to the fabric store as of late to pick the odd materials D needed. On our last little trip, the lady at the counter asked him,

"What is all this stuff for?"

To which he replied, " You would laugh if I told you."

She did. And so did I :)

{dragons}

2010-04-06T13:08:00.006-06:00

image via {here}

We went and saw How to Train Your Dragon this last Friday with the Halls. I couldn't remember seeing the preview and so wasn't particularly sure of what to expect. It was awesome! D and I were in love with the movie. I really wanted a dragon. D, of course, was quick to remind me that dragons are not real. Way to kill my dreams, love. :) You should go see it. Right now. And take me with you.

As an added bonus, the music was fantastic- especially the last song by Jonsi.

{tell me i look good}

2010-03-30T19:19:00.007-06:00

Today, D was in some need of some goodness and requested some jalapeno chips of a particular brand from Smiths. I got in the car, went to Smiths, but alas, no jalapeno chips. Due to road construction, I took a longer drive to Albertson's, but alas, no jalapeno chips. Feeling like I really wanted to bring home these dang chips for my husband whom I love, I jumped on the freeway, got off one exit later, and headed into Walmart to look for the chips. Success! When I got to the register and asked the cashier how their day had been, they responded and asked me how I was doing. I responded, "Great-" and before I could finish the cashier said, "Because you look good." Well, I am sure the friendly cashier probably tells everyone that, but I have to say, it made me feel good nonetheless.

I have decided that from now on, when I ask someone how they're doing, I will then say, "because you look good." Hopefully their day will be that much better. Though, of course, it would be worse if I said that and the person was insanely ill, lying on their death bed, or smelled really terrible- no reason to lie about it since that usually only makes things worse..or awkward.

{we three}

2010-03-24T09:50:00.008-06:00

A little gang of ducks we spotted last week on our walk. I love their green heads and stripey tails. Did you know they have a beautiful purple-blue hidden under their wings somewhere. You can only see it when they fly...

{2+6}

2010-03-23T19:53:00.007-06:00

This is D's idea of the perfect birthday cake. And the perfect cake it was (thanks to the waitress for sneaking the candle on for me- it very nearly melted).

Happy birthday, love.

{the fake out}

2010-03-22T09:28:00.009-06:00

D and I went on an adventure of sorts this weekend to a trail nearby our home. It was beautiful and warm and everything wonderful. On a particular part of the trail, you end up passing a field with three horses. Naturally, I wanted to pet them and become the best of friends so I tried to call them over. We got a hopeful response from one little guy, but at the last moment, he pulled a fake out and ran in the other direction. Why?!?

coming...
closer...
and he leaves...

{beginner}

2010-03-21T21:45:00.005-06:00

Today we had the Hanson's over for dinnertime, following which we played a nice game of Scrabble. Now, I am really good at losing games. In fact, I most always do. I consider myself to be a great loser. My title would be Loser Sportsmanship Extraordinaire. But today, I lost miserably. It isn't the losing I struggled with, but the score- 76! Oh boy!

To quote the Scrabble manual: "In a 2-player game, a good player scores in the 300-400 point range."

Granted we had four players, I should have scored at least 150 or 200. Good player, my eye.

Moded.

{pesto}

2010-03-18T15:47:00.010-06:00

In honor of good old St. Patrick's Day and in lieu of the fact that I failed to wear green to work, I decided to make some spinach pesto with the big box of spinach that has been sitting in the fridge, dying to be used. I opted for a double batch so my spinach would not go to waste, and since I knew I could freeze it in ice cube trays for the future. It is really bright and refreshing, and especially delicious with some sun dried tomatoes in the mix. We once grilled some chorizo to serve on top, and was serious perfection. It wasn't so healthy by that point, but I am thinking of trying it with some fresh chicken sausage sometime soon.

Spinach Pesto {based upon this recipe}

2-3 big handfuls of spinach
1 1/2 garlic clove (I used 3 in my double batch)
1 big handful of almonds
1/3-1/2 c olive oil
1/3-1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese
salt and pepper

1. Throw the spinach, garlic, and almonds into your food processor (a good blender would work as well) and pulse until fine (you will probably need to scrape the sides down occasionally, especially when using a blender).
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your preferred consistency (hence the variation in amount of oil the may be used).
3. Add the salt, pepper, and Parmesan and pulse for just a few moments until blended. If you pulse the pesto with the cheese too long, you may produce some heat and melt your cheese, and that part should come later!

That's it! Toss a tablespoon at a time with pasta until pasta is just covered. I like to keep some hot pasta water on the side to add in just to moisten the pasta and achieve a good "sauce" (learned that from watching Giada).

{above it all}

2010-03-18T14:05:00.006-06:00

It was seventy-five degrees yesterday in sunny St. George. Feeling like I needed some serious sun and vitamin D (have you seen how white my skin is?), I lay down on the roof and read my book only to wake up nearly an hour later. I don't think I've had such a great and peaceful nap in a long time. It was even better having someone to snuggle with this afternoon in the warm sun.

{sunshine}

2010-03-05T08:02:00.007-07:00

image via {shadowjuniper}

On the days I don't have to wake up at 5 for work, I try to sleep in until at least 8 or 8:30. Probably not the best idea since my body will never pick up a normal sleeping pattern, but I've been considering working on that. I guess my body decided this morning was the day to begin because I woke up just before 7. I had to use the restroom...bad. Of course, I tried to ignore it, but eventually gave in and got up. I ran back to bed, praying that I'd be able to fall back asleep quickly, but no such luck. I have officially been up over an hour. I don't have much to show for it yet, as D is still asleep and anything I might want to accomplish (cleaning, smoothie making, etc.) would be loud enough or require turning on lights (reading) to wake my sick, sleeping husband. Poor guy. So for now, I guess I should bask in the laziness. Though really I am a little bored of laying here. I feel like I need to do something...

One good thing about waking up early...hearing D laugh in his sleep. That is the perfect start to my day.

{i've got a feeling}

2010-03-03T13:14:00.014-07:00

Image via {thelove}

This last weekend I had the opportunity to organize a raffle. For the last few days I have been emailing and calling all the winners (there were quite a few as the community was incredibly generous to us). Today I came home nearly giddy telling D how fun it has been to tell people they won this or that. I feel like Santa Claus. Even though no one has any idea (or cares) who I am or what I'm doing, hearing people ecstatic over their "luck" and the excitement of their kiddos has me all aglow. Who would have thought? From cute young moms, to grandmas, to normally unfriendly people (one who actually smiled today), everyone has been so happy and nice. I wish I could do this everyday. Just give things away. Some day when we are rich (or richer than we are now), I want to just cover someone random person's dinner, buy out all the old lady's knitted blankets from the Farmer's Market, and send people random packages of goodness. It's not as if I actually did anything for the raffle winners, but I have this feeling in my gut- this totally awesome feeling that makes me want to do things I don't normally do or talk when and to people I normally wouldn't (since I often don't have much of anything to say). Kind of like Pay it Forward. And the secret or anonymity- it's half the fun. I want to run and sing at the top of my lungs (though I am sure I would be doing many a disservice), ring the bell on my Bing (my Christmas bike), and do something for anyone to make them happy.

And on top of all that, D and I went on a fun walk today, met the nicest dog name Betty, and ate here for lunch. I got the orchard salad with the most divine peach dressing. I need the recipe. Let me know you have it! If only it could have ended with a coconut cupcake...my favorite :)

{president's day weekend}

2010-02-18T19:58:00.016-07:00

We have had two awesome weekends in a row. The first of which, the Bodily's came to St. George, but we were bad about taking the camera around. This last weekend, Mom, Dad, Grandma, Linda, Craig, Ann, and Gil came. Some pictures from the weekend...

Here's a shot of dad with his magically missing finger-ends.
Lots of outdoor card playing in...yes..70 degree weather! You can bet there were many victory dances by Gil that weekend.

Grandma. I like this one. She looks especially wise.

Mom and I worked on sewing a skirt. Cool fabric.
Mom painted Miri's nails with her Valentine's pink polish.
Another random picture with mom's excellently placed finger nail.
D, me, and Miri hanging out on the couch.

On another note, I am deciding whether I like my hair this dark with bangs. I can't decide. Any opinions to help me out?

{curry}

2010-02-04T20:45:00.007-07:00

image via {marthastewart}

We had one of the best dinners tonight. It was a bright and fresh green curry from Jamie Oliver. Soo delicious. None of the pictures came out great, but Martha's sure looks delicious. We served it over baked brown rice. D.i.v.i.n.e. I have tried to make curries more than a few times, but they have always tasted bland and more bland. This one is a winner, so I had to share. Give this one a try- you won't regret it (unless you don't love cilantro). I think next time I would be apt to adding a touch of honey/stevia/sugar just to balance out the bright green-ness of the dish.

Thai Green Curry by Jamie Oliver
2 stalks lemongrass, outer leaves discarded, crushed
4 scallions, trimmed
3 fresh green chiles, halved and seeded
4 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
1 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and coarsely chopped
1 large bunch fresh cilantro, plus leaves for garnish
1 teaspoon coriander seeds, crushed
8 fresh/dried kaffir lime leaves (we omitted this..you can't find them in St. George..I bet it would have been lovely)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce (we omitted this)
1 tablespoon peanut oil (we omitted this)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (we used one boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into small cubes)
1/2 cup snow peas
1 (14-ounce) can coconut milk
1 large bunch asparagus, julienned (we omitted this, though I wish we would have had some)
1 lime Cilantro leaves, for garnish
Chopped red chile, for garnish
Cooked basmati rice, for serving

1. Using the heel of your hand, crush lemongrass and add to the bowl of a food processor along with scallions, green chiles, garlic, ginger, cilantro, coriander seeds, and lime leaves. Process until finely chopped. With the processor running, add soy and fish sauce. Continue processing until a smooth paste is formed.
2.Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat and add peanut and sesame oil; swirl to coat. Add shrimp and snow peas; cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds. Add coconut milk and asparagus; stir to combine. Cook until heated through, about 3 1/2 minutes. Squeeze lime over curry and garnish with cilantro leaves and red chile; serve with rice.

{ew-fu}

2010-02-03T23:06:00.008-07:00

image via {zedomax}

I think I am a pretty open person. I love to try new food (so long as it doesn't smell like feet), and I even have taught myself to love some foods I thought I could never like.

For example, bananas. I can't remember ever liking bananas. Never. But because I have tried them in so many ways so many times, I like bananas- in my cereal, in chocolate, in a smoothie, or frozen (although I still don't like a just peeled banana). I have learned to love mushrooms, squash, avocado and I even conquered my extreme disgust with lentils after my friend gave me a winning recipe.

But, tofu. Tofu, tofu, ew-fu. How I hate thee. Let me count the ways: I hate thee fried, baked, pureed, in curry, in burritos. I hate your texture, your smell, and your ominous jiggle.

Today I gave you yet another try to win me over, but still I loathe you. I just don't think we'll ever get along, you and I. No matter how much I want to love you, I just don't. There's no future for you and I. No more wasted time and money on you. Though I must say, you make a very cute robot :)

{these days}

2010-01-27T19:12:00.005-07:00

These days. They have been pretty great. I can't say a whole lot is new with D and me, but life is pretty good for the following reasons:

1. Impending graduation...3 months!
2. Lots of rain!
3. A clean house
4. Lots of reading...the library is my favorite place in St. George
5. Projects finally finished
6. I even worked on our taxes today...proud? I am!

D found a house down the street that he is dying to buy. It needs a lot of love, so we constantly talk about all the things we would do if it were ours. But, for now, it will just be a thought, a topic of conversation. And that's okay. We enjoy it, and someday we will get to do all the things we talk about. Now, we'll just talk and focus on these days.

{christmas!}

2009-12-31T16:32:00.014-07:00

Ah, Christmas. I hate that the lights are beginning to come down..but I have to say that this Christmas was probably one of the very best. Let me share some highlights from the day...
Marfa being the master chef of the day...and it was good.
Ashlee...I don't think this picture needs much explaining...love that kid.
Alyssa setting up the "Princess table". Very princess-like indeed.
Taylor..aka lover of the camera aka Michelle from Full House, no? She likes to eat...a girl after my own heart...we're related.
Marfa, Errol, Jay, and Synthea.
Mama, Dad, Kristen, Kaitlin, and Amy.
Drew and Gavin. And Taylor.
My favorite picture of Ashlee.
Climbing the stairs...
Oh, hello!
Playing the Wii after dinner.
And a random picture of my great husband.

Hope everyone had a very happy Christmas! I did!

{a month}

2009-12-11T12:10:00.005-07:00

I have been a bad little blogger this last month. I feel like life has had me flying on the coat tails from one thing to the next, but I have to say that it has been great. Let me give you a quick catch-up on the last month:

For one thing, I got a new job! This is probably the most exciting for me. I work at the hospital doing calculations, assessments, and paperwork all nutrition related. It has been the biggest blessing and I really love it (minus getting up at 5am, but I am starting to get accustomed to that too...it will come). It's nice to feel like I have done something good and helpful to someone at the end of the day. Plus, I get to eat cream of wheat when I work, so that is pretty exciting..especially when it's lumpy..why are the lumps always the best part? I just don't know.

The family came for Thanksgiving, and I made my very first turkey and gravy!!! That was quite a feat for me. Needless to say, I was pretty proud I didn't ruin it and Thanksgiving. It was fun to have everybody around and to have a break. Lots of good food, running around, and just being lazy. We saw The Blind Side, and I have to say, it was probably my favorite Sandra Bullock movie. Just plain good. Go see it.

I cut my hair two weeks ago...and let my hair dresser talk me into dying it again...I was considering being blonde again...I have a tough time deciding which I like best, so I just let her do whatever. I really like it.

Last Friday was my birthday...23! When D turned 23 a few years ago, I told him, "You are officially old." Now that I hit that mark, I am regretting having said that...but I do feel old these days. D gave me some pretty earrings, which I love. The day was pretty uneventful, as we spent most of my birthday in the car traveling to California for K's baptism (so awesome) after I worked at 5am and then went to school for a few hours. Luckily, we made great time and had fun going to dinner with the family when we arrived.

Saturday was K's baptism. I played the piano. I thought I was going to have a heart attack, but I didn't butcher the song too bad (only the introduction), and luckily, no one remembers the piano anyway (thank goodness).

D has been super busy the last couple of weeks. It is so weird. He has been working really hard and has been at school for at least 12 hours...poor guy. I think he is really looking forward to the end of finals. He is awesome and deserves a break more than anyone. I am looking forward to a great Christmas break in (hopefully) sunny southern California.

My last day of finals was on Friday (!), so I am feeling pretty good and care free as of right now.

We are still bad at photographically capturing life events, but we'll get better at it.

More to come!

Meanwhile, I am loving this song and video...it makes me want to dance. Plus, it probably doesn't hurt that his voice is like an angel (D just laughs at me whenever I make mention of that fact. lol The guy can't help it). I am thinking it would be pretty amazing to go to one of his shows in the Spring...LA or Salt Lake? Dang, I need a spring birthday.

{stop motion is my fave}

2009-11-02T19:51:00.003-07:00

Okay, okay. I know I am obsessed. I saw this commercial while I was watching the news, and pretty much died. I need to make a stop motion movie in the near future. I just can't get enough.

{dear sun}

2009-10-29T12:20:00.003-06:00

Dear Mr. Sun,
I just wanted to tell you that I miss you these days. The air has been biting me, and I have had to resort to snow jackets all day. I would very much appreciate it if you would kindly shed some more warmth down here and keep me comfortable. D and I are very thin-skinned, you see, and get cold quite easily. Winter=mean. You didn't leave quite so early last year, and I worry that it will be a very long winter without you, though I am grateful you make a dramatic appearance in the afternoons. If you'd come out in the morning and warm me up, I would gladly welcome you.
That would be fantastic. Kay, thanks. :)
Also, if you know how to make tummies feel better, that would be nice. Mine doesn't like me today.

{lessons}

2009-10-20T11:43:00.004-06:00

my grandpa

Came across this site this morning (while I should have been reading an assignment...everyone needs a break, right?). One of my favorites:

"It's not enough to be proud of your ancestry. Live up to it."

I don't think this needs much explaining. I don't have a kiddo or one currently on the way, but I still want one of these books. Someday, right?

{sunday afternoon}

2009-10-18T21:20:00.007-06:00

Life has been busy. But Sunday afternoon was nice and lazy...here's a few pictures from the day...

ew :)

stern and crazy d

{lartigue}

2009-10-01T11:48:00.004-06:00

Some of my favorite photos from Jacques Henri Lartigue. Can you believe he was just a kid when he took these? Amazing. I really need to start taking my camera everywhere.

so cool

probably my fave...that's a tire

{swiss days}

2009-09-25T20:49:00.007-06:00

We have learned a lot about St. George since moving here. Apparently, Santa Clara in particular has a rich Swiss history, and thus celebrates Santa Clara Swiss Days every September. I'm sad we didn't know last year! It was pretty exciting, and in fact, about 20 times better than the Washington County Fair. We had to park "far" away, and walk up and over to City Hall where the festivities began. Along the way, there are all kinds of these little wooden cows painted by high school teams or old Swiss families. We heard later that the Swiss would have some kind of celebration or something crazy when all the cows came home, hence the cows all over Santa Clara (I decided it was good homage to Swiss cheese, and chocolate, and other milk-y Swiss items that must surely exist). Basically, there were a ton of craft, jewelery, and food vendors along with games and "rides" for the kiddos. There was some good people watching, that's for sure. They even had these kids singing Swiss songs, though we couldn't understand a word they said. Inside the City Hall, was a set up of quilts and Swiss genealogical histories that finally explained to us where Tobler's Bakery, Frei's Fruit Market, and Staehli farms came from. It is pretty cool now to know how long those families have been here. There were all kinds of cool pictures. We ran into Steve and Samira part way through, right before calling to invite each other. We ended with some chili cheese fries that somewhat satisfied our craving since you can't get them anywhere else in St. George (except Carl's Jr. and they are disgusting).
So photogenic, I know :) His boots were my fave.

{feel like dancing}

2009-09-24T12:18:00.003-06:00

Unbeknownst to the general public, I tend to have the urge to dance all the time...in the computer lab at school (right now), in the middle of a lecture, on my drive home, mid-conversation...yup...a lot of the time. I keep thinking I need to forget how terrible I may actually be at it and that I need to just find some sort of outlet. Maybe a dance class next semester would help? Although that would probably require a very straight-faced and patient teacher. Hmm..something anyway.

You should be glad I don't have any pictures to add to this post. That probably would have been embarrassing for both you and I :)

{suu nutrition}

2009-09-01T15:24:00.008-06:00

**UPDATE: I forgot to post the link! (Thanks, Em!) I have now listed it on my sidebar and you can also click here as well.

So, good news...our blog is now up and running! We have only done an intro post that we are awaiting approval on before publishing, but the main idea is ready to go (I imagine we will be able to publish the first post by the end of the day). I am super stoked. If you are interested, maybe pop on over there and do the poll on the side. That will help us have a better idea of what our audience is interested in and what our posts should generally concern. Email me with any other ideas or suggestions- thanks for you help!

Once again, I conned D into developing our blog banner...he always does a great job. He tells me that I am going to have to learn how to do the next one :) Thanks, love- you're the best!

{so alive}

2009-08-25T16:12:00.005-06:00

Yes, we are so alive. Alive as ever, but busy, hence the lack of posts for the last month or so. Here's a quick summary of my summer: 4-5 hours of chemistry 5 days a week and 2 trips to CA for weddings leaves little time left in the day when you factor in the necessaries like work, sleep, and eating. Though, I am proud to say I got the 2nd highest score in my class (beat out only by a genius 16 year old...I never had a chance to begin with :) This is a picture of D and I at the temple (don't worry, it's just my slip sticking out, naturally. I figured it could just be like layering a tank under a top so I wasn't about to stress over it). We probably should have taken it in front of the temple (would have been a prettier backdrop), but I think we were just distracted by all the wedding excitement. Now we have already started school again and this semester is looking to be the busiest yet, probably filled with lots of crying and sleeplessness by me, but it's all going to worth it. D is so smart and excited for all his classes (He has been talking in computer language all day, so I know that's a great sign). Love that. I am the most excited for the research I will be working on this semester. Our project was officially approved today! I was so stoked. Now we just have to get it into action and hope to be approved for funding in the nest few weeks...I have been told the hardest part is over. In other exciting news, I think I will be working with a partner on a nutrition blog for SUU as a project for one of my nutrition classes. Once that gets started I will post about it so you guys can see it and give me some feedback. I am pretty excited. I am excited for the million projects I'll have going on this semester...just praying for the time and patience to get to them all.
Probably the best news of all was that D and I also celebrated our 2nd anniversary this last week. I just think he's the greatest.
You make my dreams come true. I love you, D.

{tag- you're it}

2009-08-03T21:44:00.015-06:00

Sorry we have been MIA for so long. Things have been so insanely busy that I haven't gotten around to it. That and we are terrible at bringing our crappy camera anywhere. Although, I think I can round up a lot of great pictures from this last weekend...more of that to come...

your favorites:
COLOR:: yellow, greens, blues, orange, corals, grey...I love so many...
SPORT:: I like to watch soccer the best. Baseball games are fun too...but only if you are sitting close enough to see what is going on.
HOLIDAY:: Christmas, hands down.
FOOD:: What don't I like? As of right now I love: butternut squash, sweet potato, corn, tomato, plum, peaches, beans, ice cream, cilantro, curry, spinach, nutella, hummus, avocado....

this or that:
HUGS OR KISSES:: Both.
PEPSI OR COKE:: I don't drink either, but I do love a lemon or cherry coke from Ruby's on occasion.
MCDONALDS OR BURGER KING:: Neither.
CHOCOLATE OR VANILLA:: Basically chocolate everything, but I prefer vanilla ice cream with lots of chocolate add ins...vanilla ice cream is so much more versatile.
LOVER OR FIGHTER:: Eh, both I guess.
LOVE OR MONEY:: Love is the best, of course. Although, money definitely wouldn't hurt, and might even be fun :)
LISTEN TO SOMEONE TALK OR TALKING:: Listen.
PERSONALITY OR LOOKS:: Personality.

love:
ARE YOU IN LOVE:: Always.
DO U BELIEVE IN LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT:: Sure.
IN TWO WORDS WHY DID YOUR LAST RELATIONSHIP END:Too young
WOULD YOU GO OUT WITH SOMEONE JUST FOR THEIR MONEY:: Hah, never did that.
DO YOU GO ON "PITY DATES":: I don't think I ever went on many dates before D.
EVER CHEATED ON SOMEONE:: Nope.

who is the last person:
YOU HUGGED:: D
TOLD YOU THEY LOVED YOU:: D
YELLED AT YOU:: Hunter. He's 4.
YOU SAID YOU HATED: I don't really hate..though I am pretty sure it was some of our current politicians. So bugged.
BROKE YOUR HEART:: It isn't.
MESSAGED YOU:: D
YOU SENT A FRIENDS REQUEST TO:: Don't have a myspace or facebook!

random:
DO YOU BELIEVE IN YOURSELF:: Most of the time...working on that one.
DO YOU THINK UR ATTRACTIVE:: Sure. I don't think I am most unfortunate looking.
WHAT STAR/CELEBRITY DO MOST PEOPLE SAY YOU RESEMBLE:: Haha. Someone told me I looked like Lucy Loo Who once.
MOVIE YOU SAW IN THE THEATER:: Land of the Lost. Good thing it was the dollar theater.
CAN YOU HANDLE THE TRUTH:: Ya.
BIGGEST FEAR:: Cars and snow. Horrible combination. Mostly just anything to do with cars in general. That and losing D.
MOST MISSED MEMORY:: Sleepovers with my friends. Those were always funny.
FIRST THOUGHT WAKING UP:: "Don't make me go."
IF YOU DONT RECOGNIZE THE NUMBER ON YOUR CALLER ID, DO YOU ANSWER:: Not unless I am expecting an important call from a number I don't have.
BEST FRIEND:: D, of course.
FRIEND WHO THINKS THE MOST LIKE YOU:: I think we all think pretty differently, but also the same. That doesn't make much sense :)

I tag: Everyone that reads this! Please :)

{a moment, a love}

2009-07-14T20:17:00.006-06:00

image via {leslie miles}

"Oh, reckless abandon, like no one's watching you. And while our blood's still young- it's so young. It runs, and we won't stop til it's over, won't stop to surrender. "- Sweet Disposition by The Temper Trap

Oh, reckless abandon.

This song is to be in this movie coming out Friday. I can't wait to see it. The trailer makes me super excited every time I watch it.

{week of Kristen}

2009-06-15T21:48:00.009-06:00

I had the opportunity to go down to California for six days or so to see Kristen's graduation. Sadly, D couldn't come because he was in summer school. It was really fun. Here's a few pictures from the trip.

Mom got some box seat tickets for the Dodgers vs Padres game. Probably the most exciting sporting event I have watched. Being able to see things without looking at the big screen really made a difference. I actually knew what was going on the whole time :)

Kristen in all her glory before graduation wearing the $16 chocolate lei mom had me assemble for her.

Kristen looking good in her red gown and diploma in hand. Holla!

Me and Kristen saying good-bye before I headed off to the airport. How come I didn't get any of the photogenic genes?

A good-bye picture with Dad. Unfortunately, mom was doing all the picture taking so I didn't get one with her. I will have to make sure I do next time.

The trip was awesome, but I have to say that I really missed my D. It is good to be home.

{my lemonade stand}

2009-06-09T11:19:00.004-06:00

image via {designmom}

I recently read about Kelly Ripa and Electrolux's partnership in a fundraiser for ovarian cancer. For every virtual lemonade stand opened, Electrolux will donate $1. It was super quick, easy, and fun. You can visit my stand here- check it out! There are 3 delicious flavors to pick from ;) I hope we can all help to raise awareness for this hurtful disease.

{on the up and up}

2009-06-04T23:18:00.005-06:00

One of the best movies I have seen in the longest time. Cross my heart :)

especially in 3d

see?

{there's a monster under my sheets}

2009-05-30T12:25:00.008-06:00

This is what I saw when I walked into our house after breakfast at the inn this morning. What is it? A monstrous lump? Let's look a little closer...
Hmm...that's looking a little more familiar...
Oh, it's my husband! I must have left the lights on when I got up this morning...sorry, babe! How do you sleep?

{brian regan at tuacahn}

2009-05-14T15:55:00.002-06:00

A week or so ago, D and I went with our friends, the Carlisles, to a Brian Regan comedy show at the Tuacahn. We are super excited to have some friends here in St. George to hang out with. I hadn't ever heard Brian Regan before so I wasn't sure what I was in for, but it was really funny. Several times I glanced over only to notice tears streaming down D's face due to the fact that he was laughing so hard. That alone was worth the trip. Oh, that and the man sitting behind the Carlisles. I'm glad he needed to repeat every punch line after Brian. Thanks Carlisles for coming with us- it was a blast!

{day of the mothers}

2009-05-11T10:41:00.004-06:00

{my mom is on the bottom right}

Happy Mother's Day, mom! I love you so much! You are my fave!

{lamps}

2009-05-05T21:17:00.006-06:00

D and I love projects- from bedside tables to Christmas stockings to tables and now to lamps. D is so amazing. We found this cute vase a few weeks ago and D turned it into a working lamp less than an hour later. We finally found a lampshade and it is completed. Someday I hope to find a decently priced lampshade similar to this one, but until then, this will work just fine. My husband can do anything.
(Too bad this picture is of such bad quality. It really does look so much cooler in person)

{dancing shoes}

2009-04-23T10:58:00.006-06:00

For the first time, in a long time, I got what seems to be a pretty decent fortune from my fortune cookie. I always seem to get the ones that tell me what I already knew. Or nothing at all(total false-ness). But this one...better put my dancing shoes on...

{reasons i know i am getting older}

2009-04-20T12:04:00.005-06:00

To be completely honest, I really haven't felt much older since I turned 17. I mean, I feel smarter and less immature (let's hope so), but I sometimes still find myself feeling like I could be that young. There are a few indications, however, that I and my life have definitely changed a lot from when I turned 17...let me tell you a few...

1. I make fun of all the new teenager fashions (Those hippie headbandanas with flowers the size of baseballs on the side...what is that? Can someone please tell me?!)
2. After walking into a certain teenager store for the first time in a million years, I am realizing that every piece of clothing looks like it was made for a 6 year old. Was my generation that small? I don't think so...
3. I can't wear jeans with zippers lasting less than 1 inch.
4. I have to laugh at the groups of teenage girls who wear enormous amounts of perfume and makeup to the movie theater (Hate to break it to you girlies, but Zac Efron just isn't going to come out of the movie screen).
5. I have no problem leaving the house without makeup on (Although when I do wear it, it sure does boost my self esteem).
6. The world isn't just about me anymore...every decision I make has consequences for me, D, and our posterity.
7. I watch the news. Politics do and will affect me and my children's future (Unfortunately...).
8. Adults are just like teenagers. Especially women. When do people really grow up?
9. W-2s, 1040s, 4852, filing jointly. I would have thought those were secret codes or passwords...and yet...they still kind of are, aren't they?
10. Speaking up is mandatory...shyness is not an option...no one is going hold your hand anymore...you are responsible for you (Good thing I at least have Drew so we can look out for each other).
11. A lot of the Hollywood "heart throbs" are now younger than me.
12. Oh, ya, and I am married to my love. That is very different.

I guess I am older :) (and maybe wiser too?)

{kinda creepy}

2009-04-17T18:59:00.006-06:00

Recognize this picture? Well, this is the same picture I used for D's birthday. D is taking an Adobe Illustrator class and his last assignment was to create a vector image from a photo of himself. Insane, huh? Looks just like his photo...especially that ear.

{pumpkin doughnuts}

2009-04-13T15:39:00.015-06:00

V and I decided to make these guys to go with our Easter dinner on Sunday. While they aren't especially spring-y, they were so delicious. We had intended to make these back in October, but ran out of time so this past Sunday seemed like the next best opportunity. Now what to do with the remaining pumpkin puree...

Pumpkin Doughnuts with Powdered Sugar Glaze (recipe here)

Doughnuts
3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
1 large egg
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon buttermilk
1 cup canned pure pumpkin
Canola oil (for deep-frying)

Powdered Sugar Glaze
2 cups powdered sugar
Whipping cream

For doughnuts:
Whisk first 8 ingredients in medium bowl to blend. Using electric mixer, beat sugar and butter in large bowl until blended (mixture will be grainy). Beat in egg, then yolks and vanilla. Gradually beat in buttermilk; beat in pumpkin in 4 additions. Using rubber spatula, fold in dry ingredients in 4 additions, blending gently after each addition. Cover with plastic; chill 3 hours.

Sprinkle 2 rimmed baking sheets lightly with flour. Press out 1/3 of dough on floured surface to 1/2- to 2/3-inch thickness. Using 2 1/2-inch-diameter round cutter, cut out dough rounds. Arrange on sheets. Repeat with remaining dough in 2 more batches. Gather dough scraps. Press out dough and cut out more dough rounds until all dough is used.

Using 1-inch-diameter round cutter, cut out center of each dough round to make doughnuts and doughnut holes.

Line 2 baking sheets with several layers of paper towels. Pour oil into large deep skillet to depth of 1 1/2 inches. Attach deep-fry thermometer and heat oil to 365°F to 370°F. Fry doughnut holes in 2 batches until golden brown, turning occasionally, about 2 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain. Fry doughnuts, 3 or 4 at a time, until golden brown, adjusting heat to maintain temperature, about 1 minute per side. Using slotted spoon, transfer doughnuts to paper towels to drain. Cool completely.

For powdered sugar glaze:
Whisk powdered sugar and 4 tablespoons whipping cream to blend. Whisk in additional cream, 1 teaspoon at a time, to form medium thick glaze. Can be made up to 3 hours ahead. Spread doughnuts on 1 side with Powdered Sugar Glaze. Arrange doughnuts, glazed side up, on racks. Let stand until glaze sets, at least 30 minutes.

{easter pictures}

2009-04-12T14:52:00.008-06:00

Since we haven't had any pictures of us in a long time, I thought we should take some today. Easter pictures...they make me feel like a kid again...Is it totally lame that we had Thelonius in the pictures with us? Mostly we just love to annoy him :)

{trash bags}

2009-04-10T10:22:00.004-06:00

image via {apartmenttherapy}

These trash bag latterns in Spain reminded me a lot of the umbrellas below. I do think these are really cool, though I don't think I will be hanging trash bags in my front yard any time soon...

image via {apartmenttherapy}

{umbrellas}

2009-04-09T13:34:00.007-06:00

image via {christoandjeanneclaude}

I have been thinking about this particular project for a long time now, especially since the arrival of spring. I first came across this and a few other Christo and Jeanne-Claude projects in my humanities class a few years ago. I hope I can see one of their upcoming projects in real life someday. To take part in the experience would be almost magical...like something out of a picture book. I would have loved to have been amongst those bright and happy yellow umbrellas.

image via {christoandjeanneclaude}

{time for recovery}

2009-04-03T09:38:00.008-06:00

Thanks to my fantastic husband for helping me get through this week. The stress is finally gone; it has subsided. There will be a great recovery in store starting today. I am very much looking forward to the greatness that is General Conference this coming weekend and the words of a living prophet found therein. I can hardly wait...

{simplicity}

2009-03-27T10:48:00.004-06:00

image via {leslie miles}

Just a little food for thought today that has me thinking...

{one quarter of a century}

2009-03-23T19:52:00.006-06:00

Today is my best friend's birthday. My most favorite person in the world. He's brilliant.

I love you D.

{stayin' alive}

2009-03-18T18:15:00.005-06:00

Remember that lemon verbena plant I got in the summer? Well, guess what? For the first time ever, I have actually kept a plant alive!! It survived the winter and me!
and here is our cilantro...Drew's fave ;)
and our thyme or basil...we can't remember which one we planted in this spot...I guess we will have to wait and see.

{disgusting}

2009-03-10T19:20:00.006-06:00

Yup, I still hate them. Ever since I can remember I have hated home cooked lentils. You know those dried soup mixes from the grocery store with about a million kinds of beans and lentils- I could never eat it. For the past several weeks, all I have wanted to do was to try to like lentils. They're cheap. They're healthy. Why shouldn't I like them, right? Tonight, I decided to give them another shot, with a highly recommended recipe even, and still- g.r.o.s.s.! I have cured my dislike of mushrooms. I have cured my dislike of bananas. But home cooked lentils...it's just not happening. You know, I think the only kind of lentils I have ever liked are the curried ones from Indian restaurants. Unfortunately, I am scared to death of cooking Indian foods. I feel like I would butcher it. Anyone have any sure recipes to convert me to the world of lentils? Maybe an Indian recipe that I just can't ruin? Help!

{crocodiles and hippopotamus}

2009-02-28T20:47:00.006-07:00

via {oh, hello friend}

I know what you're thinking...."another video?" Haha It's true. I really can't help it. I just came across this video today, and about died. I wish I knew French so I could teach my future little girl. She is just so dang cute! I especially love the way she says "hippopotamus" and "crocodile". I melt.

{oren lavie}

2009-02-27T18:24:00.005-07:00

Sorry for all the video posts as of late. Have I mentioned how much I love Stop Motion video? Wow. This one is by Oren Lavie. Lovely.

{jai ho}

2009-02-25T12:48:00.004-07:00

I haven't gotten to see this movie, but I am incredibly intrigued. It looks wonderful, and I am loving the mix of Indian and American pop combined in this version of this song. The Pussycat Dolls are not exactly what I ususally listen to, but I liked their rendition of this song. Cool video as well. Entrancing...

I thought I should also mention that I heard the original version by A R Rahman and I loved it as well...what a talented man!

{magnetos}

2009-02-24T23:01:00.003-07:00

I love a good commercial...enjoy!

{coraline}

2009-02-16T19:28:00.006-07:00

image via {themercury}

Drew and I went to Coraline this weekend. Tim Burton never ceases to amaze me. Can you believe that all this is done with real hands? Incredible! If you haven't seen Coraline yet, go now! It was so beautiful with a good dose of creepiness added to the mix. Stop-motion animation absolutely baffles me. I can't take my eyes away for a second! Not only was the movie fantastic, but the movie's website is the most creative that I have seen for a film in a long time. Check it out here. Tim Burton must have some seriously incredible dreams. The shot above is one of my favorite settings form the movie. It probably comes in at a close second to the garden. Now I am very curious about the book. Has anyone read it? Will I love it?

{meatballs and spaghetti}

2009-02-05T10:52:00.007-07:00

image via {gourmet}

I have never really liked traditional spaghetti- ever. It was just always boring and starchy and was never something I chose to make for myself. After marrying D and finding out how much he LOVED meatballs and spaghetti, I knew I was going to have to figure something out to compromise. Every recipe I have ever tried of Ina's has come out great, so I figured she would be the place to go for a good spaghetti and meatball recipe. I did make some changes to the original recipe to health-en it up a little and to make it more convenient for me. My sister-in-law saw the following spaghetti sauce recipe on Emeril Green and when she made it, I almost died because it was so delicious. The best thing is that the sauce gets really deep in flavor over time, so I think you could throw it in a crock pot all day. I can't even tell you how amazing these recipes are together, how cost efficient they are, and if you plan, the opportunity you have to cut back on time and reduce waste by freezing the leftovers to use for delicious lunches like meatball sandwiches and homemade pizza. I am officially converted to meatballs and spaghetti...in moderation of course!

Ina's Meatballs (adapted from this recipe)

2 lbs ground turkey or whatever ground meat you have on hand
1 cup fresh wheat bread crumbs (4 slices, crusts removed...toast and then grind)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (or dried...that's all I have on hand)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (I have also used a Jack or any other white cheese that's in the fridge)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 extra-large egg, beaten
Vegetable oil
Olive oil

Place the ground meat, bread crumbs, parsley, Parmesan, salt, pepper, egg, and 3/4 cup warm water in a bowl. Combine very lightly with a fork. Using your hands, lightly form the mixture into 2-inch meatballs. You will have 14 to 16 meatballs (these are big meatballs so feel free to make them smaller and freeze the rest)

Pour equal amounts of vegetable oil and olive oil into a large (12-inch) skillet to a depth of 1/4-inch (just a glug or two). Heat the oil. Very carefully, in batches, place the meatballs in the oil and brown them well on all sides over medium-low heat, turning carefully with a spatula or a fork. This should take about 10 minutes for each batch. Don't crowd the meatballs. Remove the meatballs to a plate covered with paper towels.

Return the meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer on the lowest heat for 25 to 30 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through. Serve hot on cooked spaghetti.

Emeril's Tomato Sauce (found here)

1 tablespoon olive oil
3/4 cup chopped yellow onions (1 medium yellow onion)
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic (2 cloves garlic)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes*
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
4 1/2 teaspoons tomato paste**
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon sugar

In a medium, heavy pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, salt, basil, oregano and black pepper, and cook, stirring, until soft, 5 minutes.

Place the tomatoes in a large bowl and squeeze to break into small pieces. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, and sugar to the pot and stir well. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Lower the heat to medium-low, and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally with a heavy wooden spoon.

*We have substituted the diced cans of tomatoes which you can find at the grocery store for a really good deal

**We have also just omitted the paste before and it works out fine too...I think the extra long cooking time helps to make up for the loss of deep tomato flavor.

{moroccan-style roast chicken with vegetables}

2009-02-04T20:54:00.004-07:00

{image via foodnetwork}

Tonight we had one our favorite dinners. I have been on a Moroccan kick for the past few months, and this fits the bill just right. I have never been able to get my hands on a Cornish hen as the original recipe calls for, but I have used a whole chicken, thighs, and even chicken breasts. I would really recommend using a part with the skin on it to keep it extra moist- especially if you decide to use a chicken breast. It makes all the difference, even if you peel the skin off after cooking it like me! If it is just Drew and I eating, we cut back on the chicken, and use whatever roasting vegetables we do have on hand (like a half butternut squash and a zucchini or whatever). Try it- you won't be disappointed! (unless you don't love spicy deliciousness ;)

Moroccan-Style Roast Chicken (adapted closely from this recipe)

1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 1/2 tablespoons salt
4 garlic cloves
1/4 cup mild honey
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons paprika
4 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 large zucchini (1 1/4 pounds total), halved lengthwise and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 medium turnips (1/2 pound total), peeled, halved lengthwise, and cut crosswise into 3/4-inch pieces
2 red bell peppers, quartered and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 1/2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
2 medium onions, cut lengthwise into 1-inch-thick wedges
2 8-oz can of unsalted tomato sauce or 1 can of whole/diced tomatoes
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 whole chicken, or breasts and thighs with the skin on
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

Mince garlic, then mash to a paste with salt mixture using flat side of a chef's knife (feel free to forgo the paste if you are feeling lazy like I often do). Transfer paste to a large bowl and whisk in honey, lemon juice, oil, spices, and pepper.

Put zucchini, turnips, bell peppers, butternut squash, and onions in a large roasting pan, then add half of spice mixture and toss until well coated. Stir tomatoes/sauce and broth into vegetables. Add hens to large bowl with remaining spice mixture and toss to coat, then arrange hens, breast or skin side up, over vegetables in pan.

Cover pan tightly with foil and roast in middle of oven 30 minutes. Uncover and roast until hens are browned and vegetables are tender, 30 minutes more. Skim fat from cooking liquid. Sprinkle herbs on top and spoon some cooking liquid over hens.

Serve with fluffy garlic rice or couscous.

{truly truly truly outrageous}

2009-02-02T12:36:00.003-07:00

I can't believe I finally found this...did anyone else watch this as much as I did when I little?

{photobooth}

2009-02-01T20:13:00.012-07:00

a little Sunday afternoon photobooth action...

we're glad we don't look like this...

{Baby Romaine Salad with Spicy Chicken & Warm Chipotle Vinaigrette}

2009-01-31T19:41:00.005-07:00

image via {finecooking}

H.E.C.T.I.C. That pretty much sums up this entire last week. I had two huge exams and one additional exam this Friday. Since last Friday, all I did was study all day. I think I only made one real meal this entire week (my poor husband). Since the majority of my stress is now diminished, I set out to make some real, healthy food this weekend. I felt like I needed some kind of salad so I moseyed on over to finecooking.com and found this excellent recipe Baby Romaine Salad with Spicy Chicken & Warm Chipotle Vinaigrette. I adapted the recipe quite a bit to fit the ingredients we had on hand and our preferences, but it was really delicious. The dressing is what totally makes this salad, so you could definately play around with the rest of the salad like we did. You could even substitute regular sugar or some other kind of vinegar if you didn't have the balsamic. Salad dressings are pretty flexible and can be adjusted to your preferences. I substituted a leafy green mix from Costco that we needed to use up for the romaine and iceburg. I think the romaine would have added a really great crunch, but, like I said, I wanted to use what we had on hand. I omitted corn and onion, as we didn't have any of that in the fridge and I kept the avocado and added some little tomatoes. I think that grilled chicken would be equally as great on this salad as well. I also made some baked sweet potato fries on the side as well. Overall, very filling, healthy, and light as well. Thanks finecooking!

I posted our adaptation of the recipe below which is now based on two people. We did end up making the full dressing recipe, however, to use later this next week. For the original recipe click the link above.

Baby Romaine Salad with Spicy Chicken & Warm Chipotle Vinaigrette

4 cups mixed leafy greens
1/2 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
1 chipotle chile (from a can of chipotles in adobo sauce), chopped, plus 2 Tbs. adobo sauce
3 oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
2 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
2 tsp. light brown sugar
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1/2 cup plus 3 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
1 Tbs. all-purpose flour
1 Tbs. fine cornmeal (preferably white)
1/2 Tbs. chili powder
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut crosswise into 1-inch-thick strips
a handful of grape tomatoes
1/2 ripe avocado, cut into 3/4-inch dice
1 lime, cut into quarters

Toss the leafy greens and cilantro into a large bowl. Purée the chipotle chile and adobo sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, vinegar, brown sugar, and mustard. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of the oil.

In a shallow dish, mix the flour, cornmeal, chili powder, and cumin. Season the chicken with 1 tsp. salt and then dredge in the flour mixture.

Heat 1 Tb. of the remaining oil in a heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering, about 1 minute. Add the chicken strips, evenly spaced, and cook without touching for 2 min. Flip and cook until the strips are just cooked through and firm to the touch, 1 to 2 min. Transfer to a large plate lined with paper towels.

Discard the fat from the pan and wipe it clean with paper towels. Set the pan over low heat, add the vinaigrette, and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula, until warmed through, about 1 min. Return the vinaigrette to a liquid measuring cup and whisk to recombine.

Gently toss the greens with about some of the vinaigrette or enough to lightly coat. Portion among two plates and top with the chicken, avocado, and the tomatoes. and Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the salads.

{confessions of a bad dancer}

2009-01-31T00:47:00.007-07:00

I have a confession...I wish I could dance like Beyonce! If anyone, anywhere has any connections to Beyonce hook a girl up with some dance lessons. It's going on the list...before I go, I have to learn to dance like her. This video totally reminds me of a more modernized, hip-hop version of the kind of dancing in all the old movies like White Christmas. Specifically in the part where they kind of run up the wall...I could totally see a similar kind of idea in those old movies. Only this particular video though- not any of the other stuff really. I just like how she combined dance forms in this one.

**Also Chris Brown's excellent dancing in this video...