As many of you know, I am addicted to diet coke. I know it is a seriously problem as it has becomes the central point of my day, but I just can't get myself to address the issue. I have noticed a pattern in my life. I give up diet coke 100% for about a month (if that). I then go through a period where I'll just have one (12 oz) every other day; however, that quickly changes into every day and then eventually a 24 oz everyday religiously by 9 am. When I say everyday, I mean it. It is the first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning (actually if i could hook up an ivy that would inject diet coke into while I was sleeping, I would do it). The two biggest problems I have when I drink diet coke regularly is #1) headaches and #2) sleep disturbance. Most people think caffeine keeps them up at night. This is very true for people who drink it periodically. However, when you have caffeine all the time, it does the opposite effect. I actually get really tired and have less energy. I only confess my disturbing addiction with hope that actually writing about it will help me realize how ridiculous it is and how in desperate need I am to give it up. Three years ago I gave up all soda pop with caffeine for an entire year. My plan is starting January 1, 2011 (can't believe that it is already 2011), I will give soda up again. Until then, I will continue enjoying my 24 ounces a day of pure heaven and the miserable headaches that accompany it.
- Miss J
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Super Duper Chili
This is a recipe that my mother passed on to me a long time ago. She actually entered it into a chili competition years ago. It is one of my all time favorite chili recipes. I generally make a whole pot and freeze half of it to heat up at a later date. Hope you enjoy!
Serves 14
Source: Mi madre
1 lb pork sausage (either Italian sausage or spicy sausage)
1 lb ground beef (I use ground turkey or chicken)
2 cans (15 1/2 oz each) hot chili beans
1 jar (16 oz) salsa (I use ones with corn and black beans in it)
1 can (16 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 1/2 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10 3/4 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
8 oz. Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
In a saucepan or soup kettle, cook sausage and beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 hour for flavors to combine.
OR
Lightly brown meats and then combine all ingredients into a crock pot and cook until meat is thoroughly cooks and chili is bubbly (approximately 4 hours). I use this method when I cook as it allows more time for the flavors to meld together. If desired top with a teaspoon of low fat sour cream and a bit of cheddar cheese.
Notes: You will want to use more or less spices depending on taste preference. I also add a 1/2 cup of roasted corn to the chili which is not part of the original recipe.
Ratings:
Moe, unrated as he hates beans :)
Miss J, 10 out of 10
Serves 14
Source: Mi madre
1 lb pork sausage (either Italian sausage or spicy sausage)
1 lb ground beef (I use ground turkey or chicken)
2 cans (15 1/2 oz each) hot chili beans
1 jar (16 oz) salsa (I use ones with corn and black beans in it)
1 can (16 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 1/2 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10 3/4 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
8 oz. Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
In a saucepan or soup kettle, cook sausage and beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 hour for flavors to combine.
OR
Lightly brown meats and then combine all ingredients into a crock pot and cook until meat is thoroughly cooks and chili is bubbly (approximately 4 hours). I use this method when I cook as it allows more time for the flavors to meld together. If desired top with a teaspoon of low fat sour cream and a bit of cheddar cheese.
Notes: You will want to use more or less spices depending on taste preference. I also add a 1/2 cup of roasted corn to the chili which is not part of the original recipe.
Ratings:
Moe, unrated as he hates beans :)
Miss J, 10 out of 10
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Qué hora es esto?
My watch broke five years ago and since then I have always been that annoying person asking what time it is. I generally can rely on my cell phone, however, as I travel more for work, I am finding it more and more inappropriate to bring out my cell phone in the middle of the the meeting to check the time. This past weekend, I broke down and bought a watch. The watch I really wanted is the Modavo Bella (see link below); however, I am not sure that a $600 watch is in the budget right now. With the Modavo out of the question, I wasn't really sure what I was looking for. I tried on about twenty watches including several made by Skagen, a Denmark brand I had never heard of it. I ended up loving this brand and actually wanted to buy two as they were super light weight and comfortable. I finally landed on the one below. I LOVE IT! I have a small wrist so its hard to find watches that fit right with the links. This watch has a band that is custom fit to your wrist and if your wrist size changes (which hopefully won't happen) then you can take it in and they will readjust it to fit. It is water resistant and came with a lifetime limited warranty. If you are in need a watch, definitely check out this brand!
- Miss J
Modavo Bella (Moe - please buy this for me when we win the lottery!)
http://www.movado.com/Details.aspx?Id=womens&watchType=Womens&watchCode=&watchId=605853&page=0
- Miss J
Modavo Bella (Moe - please buy this for me when we win the lottery!)
http://www.movado.com/Details.aspx?Id=womens&watchType=Womens&watchCode=&watchId=605853&page=0
Monday, September 27, 2010
Diet Mania
I feel like the day I turned 25 years old, my metabolism hit a wall. I somewhat think this is unfair because no one gave me a warning or a heads up. No one said, "Hey, you know that you can't binge eat at two in the morning when you come home from the bar" or "crash diets three weeks before a beach vacation don't have the same impact as they did six years ago." Throughout college, I could pull a "south beach diet" (no carbs, no sugar) for a couple weeks and easily drop ten pounds. Working out was always optional and never really played into whether or not I wanted to lose weight. However, now at 27 years old, the reality has set in that I have to make a lifestyle change. About a year ago, my good friend at work decided to join online weight watchers. I had heard of it, but I thought it required eating weight watchers TV dinners and starving myself. After her convincing me its not that at all, I decided to give it a whirl. I LOVED IT. For me this was the first diet that truly resulted in a "lifestyle" change. Moe has been telling me for years that the only diets that truly work is to burn more calories than you consume. I hate to admit this (HATE IT) but he's right.
This is the premise of weight watchers. In the beginning, it was alot of counting calories as you are given X amount of points per day and have to calculate how many points you have eaten. However, once you get the hang of it, it is super easy. The other bonus is that you get 35 extra points per week to use whenever you want and can swap out excercise points for extra food points. So if you want to go out for a nice steak dinner and wine, you can use those points anytime throughout the week in addition to your daily points. The thing I hate most about diets is the feeling of being hungry. I think the reason I liked this diet so much is that there are so many foods that are "filling" and low points (some foods are even zero points). As a result, I rarely go hungry.
I started weight watchers last October and kept up with it until late spring. I was five pounds short of my stretch goal when I fell off the wagon (I had reached me original goal but had extended the goal half way through). As a result, I have started back up this fall with the hopes of achieving by goal by December 31st. Wish me luck!
- Miss J
www.weightwatchers.com
This is the premise of weight watchers. In the beginning, it was alot of counting calories as you are given X amount of points per day and have to calculate how many points you have eaten. However, once you get the hang of it, it is super easy. The other bonus is that you get 35 extra points per week to use whenever you want and can swap out excercise points for extra food points. So if you want to go out for a nice steak dinner and wine, you can use those points anytime throughout the week in addition to your daily points. The thing I hate most about diets is the feeling of being hungry. I think the reason I liked this diet so much is that there are so many foods that are "filling" and low points (some foods are even zero points). As a result, I rarely go hungry.
I started weight watchers last October and kept up with it until late spring. I was five pounds short of my stretch goal when I fell off the wagon (I had reached me original goal but had extended the goal half way through). As a result, I have started back up this fall with the hopes of achieving by goal by December 31st. Wish me luck!
- Miss J
www.weightwatchers.com
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Aplazado!
You know you are working too much when your index finger is sore from clicking/scrolling the mouse button too much on your computer. Due to the fact that it is painful to type and the fact that my house goes on the market in six days (which I am NOT prepared for at all), I am going to take a few days off from blogging this week. In conclusion, I will be back once my house is clean and my finger no longer throbs from working 12 hours straight (despite what people may think at work, I am not paid enough for that).
P.S. My original plan was to blog tonight about the lasagna recipe I randomly threw together; however, after Moe and I almost got ill after eating it, I thought I'd save you all the pain. First recipe in a LONG time that I have seriously thrown away within five minutes of bringing it out of the oven. Serves me right trying to use up a bunch of random items in my fridge that probably should never be paired together.
- Miss J
P.S. My original plan was to blog tonight about the lasagna recipe I randomly threw together; however, after Moe and I almost got ill after eating it, I thought I'd save you all the pain. First recipe in a LONG time that I have seriously thrown away within five minutes of bringing it out of the oven. Serves me right trying to use up a bunch of random items in my fridge that probably should never be paired together.
- Miss J
Friday, September 17, 2010
Wedding Gift Idea!
Moe and I have become wedding connoisseurs over the past two years. Last year we had nine weddings and this year we have eight. In going to so many weddings, we are always trying to come up with new wedding gift ideas. Of course the registry is where we go first, but sometimes we want to get something different (especially after giving shower presents which are generally off the registry). One of my friends told me about a company based in Cincinnati that is a great place to find gift ideas. The company is called Sterling Cut Glass and is located at the Kenwood Towne center off of 1-71 S. However, everything can be ordered online and the ground shipping is generally only $5.95 which isn't bad. The website has a variety of gifts from dinnerware to barware to home accessories. Many of the gifts can be personalized through monograms which make them unique and different. I actually received a chip bowl with Moe and I's initials engraved on the side of it. When it arrived, there was a flaw in the side. I called the company, and they immediately sent me a new one in the mail the next day, no questions asked. They didn't even request that I send the original one back as proof that there was a flaw. The customer service was unreal! The piece is hand blown glass; however, it is thick enough that it has held up really well through the dinner parties and football game extravaganzas. They also sell name brand items such as Waterford, Nambe, Orrefors, Mariposa, and Michael Aram. For those of you that are engaged, the company also has a bridal registry if you are looking for another place to register!
http://www.sterlingcutglass.com/
http://www.sterlingcutglass.com/
Thursday, September 16, 2010
To Sell or Not to Sell? That is the question!
As many of you know, Moe is in the process of applying to residency for medical school. He has decided to go into General Surgery and has applied to 28 schools of which one is in Ohio. With a strong likelihood that we will be leaving Columbus, we have been faced with the fact that we will have to sell our home. I have been working with our family realtor periodically over the last three years trying to figure out the best strategy. We knew that the market was getting much better, but we had so much work that we wanted to do to the house. We didn't intend to pour tons of money into projects, but unfortunately, things kept breaking and checks keep being signed to pay for it. All I have to say is whoever buys our house is getting a great deal.... new roof, furnace, electrical, garage door, windows, front door, blinds, fence.... the list goes on and on! I think our house is the definition of "move in ready".
At first when I thought about putting the house on the market, I was fine with it. However, as the reality sets in that we will eventually have to move out, sadness overwhelms me. We have poured my heart into this house. We have spent thousands of hours slaving over tearing down wallpaper, painting walls, scrubbing the floorboards, pulling up carpet, replacing light fixtures, and planting flowers. I feel like the three and a half years in this house have flown by, and I am sad to see my time here coming to an end. Of course I knew I wouldn't live here forever, but I guess moving means closing one chapter of my life and opening another which is scary. I am not sure if I am ready to say goodbye yet. I love this house, and Moe secretly does too.
Now that we realize that we are in fact going to have to move and need to sell (renting would be a nightmare), the next question we are faced with is when to put it on the market...fall or spring? If we put it on the market now, we run the risk of it selling and us having to move into a one bedroom apartment or my parent's basement...NOT FUN (no offense Mom and Dad). If we wait until spring, we run the risk that it doesn't sell by the time we move cities. My biggest fear is that next summer will come, Moe will start residency, and I'll be stuck here in Columbus with an unsold house. I have been told a hundred and one horror stories about my friend's or my friend's friend's houses that have been on the market for over a year. Or the horror story where the house sold but at a 30% discount with the sellers having to write a check to the bank at the end of the day. All in all, the economy doesn't seem to be getting any better, and the cards seem to all be leaning towards putting it on the market now. Better to be safe than sorry. Anyone want to buy a house?! Below is a sneak peak of my home!
- Miss J
At first when I thought about putting the house on the market, I was fine with it. However, as the reality sets in that we will eventually have to move out, sadness overwhelms me. We have poured my heart into this house. We have spent thousands of hours slaving over tearing down wallpaper, painting walls, scrubbing the floorboards, pulling up carpet, replacing light fixtures, and planting flowers. I feel like the three and a half years in this house have flown by, and I am sad to see my time here coming to an end. Of course I knew I wouldn't live here forever, but I guess moving means closing one chapter of my life and opening another which is scary. I am not sure if I am ready to say goodbye yet. I love this house, and Moe secretly does too.
Now that we realize that we are in fact going to have to move and need to sell (renting would be a nightmare), the next question we are faced with is when to put it on the market...fall or spring? If we put it on the market now, we run the risk of it selling and us having to move into a one bedroom apartment or my parent's basement...NOT FUN (no offense Mom and Dad). If we wait until spring, we run the risk that it doesn't sell by the time we move cities. My biggest fear is that next summer will come, Moe will start residency, and I'll be stuck here in Columbus with an unsold house. I have been told a hundred and one horror stories about my friend's or my friend's friend's houses that have been on the market for over a year. Or the horror story where the house sold but at a 30% discount with the sellers having to write a check to the bank at the end of the day. All in all, the economy doesn't seem to be getting any better, and the cards seem to all be leaning towards putting it on the market now. Better to be safe than sorry. Anyone want to buy a house?! Below is a sneak peak of my home!
- Miss J
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Book Review (The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo)
The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larsson is a fairly controversial book for numerous reasons. The original book was actually called "Men Who Hate Women" which is an accurate description of the book (but probably wouldn't fly on the bookshelves). The author passed away in 2004 before the three books were published. It is the first of the author's trilogy that was originally written in Swedish and translated into English (as well as numerous other languages). As a result, there is some controversy as to the correct translation since the author was deceased and couldn't clarify translation questions. Although this is not a true story, the author apparently witnessed a gang rape in his earlier years which was a strong influence in the storyline of the book. Combining all these factors, this book as been a hot topic within the literature community.
I loved this book. However, if you do not like disturbing stories then I would steer clear of this one! The book deals with sexual violence in a way that truly chills you to the soul. The storyline brings together a journalist/publisher that is investigating a crime that occurred 30 years ago and an unruly girl in her twenties who is identified as a social outcast on every level. I will be honest that it is not a quick read as I constantly had to revisit previous chapters and the "Vanger" family tree in the front of the book to figure out who was who. However, once I got to the second half of the book, I couldn't put the book down. I recently started the second of the trilogy, The Girl Who Played With Fire. I am already hooked and will be posting the book review in the next couple weeks!
Excerpt from "Caribousmom" Book Review
April 16, 2010
Source: See website below plot summary.
Mikael Blomkvist is journalist who finds himself convicted in a libel case and facing the potential demise of his magazine along with a jail sentence. So when Henrik Vanger, an aging businessman, offers Mikael a job to uncover the mystery of young Harriet Vanger’s disappearance, he decides to take it. Harriet (Henrik’s niece) disappeared in the 1960s, when she was just 16 years old and now (forty years later) no trace of her has ever been uncovered. Henrik Vanger is convinced someone in the Vanger family murdered the young girl, and he wants to know how and who. In an effort to solve the mystery, Mikael begins to research the dysfunctional Vanger family and eventually seeks the help of a research assistant named Lisbeth Salander – an odd, antisocial 24 year old whose primary skill is hacking into seemingly secure computer systems and unearthing information about just about anyone.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo has two story lines. The first is the mystery of Harriet Vanger; the second is that of financial intrigue and fraud involving a huge Swedish corporation. Stieg Larsson melds these two plots through the characters of Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander.
http://www.caribousmom.com/2010/04/16/the-girl-with-the-dragon-tattoo-book-review/
- Miss J
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Boot Camp!
Generally speaking, I love working out. However, it is hard to find time in my busy schedule to get into a routine. I always find myself making up a long list of excuses as to why I can't workout. It might be that I am "too tired" after a long day of work or I'd rather hangout with Moe or take Skyler to the park. When it is nice outside, I sometimes get into the swing of running. However, the excuse that it doesn't get light early enough or gets dark too early quickly ends my running spree after about a month. I even tried the before work gym routine which lasted about a month before I got sick and tired of carrying an entire bag of hair products, work clothes, heals, and makeup to the gym each morning. So after 27 years of my life, I have finally landed on a workout solution that I love!!! BRIDAL BOOT CAMP!
I know I am not a bride (anymore), BUT I am one of many including my cousin who recommended the class to me. The class runs three times a week; however, you have the options of only going two times a week as well. It is 6-7 pm on Monday and Wednesday and 10-11 am on Saturday mornings (in the park). The beauty of the class is the flexibility to attend whichever classes work best for you. Some weeks, I go three times a week. Other weeks, I can only make it once. I also can "roll over" two classes from session to session so I don't feel like I am wasting money.
The class is a perfect setup for me as I have a hard time doing core strength training on my own. Weights are so boring and who wants to sit around and do sit ups by yourself? NOT ME! The class is a mix of Pilates, kick boxing, weights, yoga, and aerobics and is geared around interval "high intensity" workouts. Nancy does a great job of making it fun, but pushing each of her clients at the same time. After the first class, I couldn't walk for three days. Now I just feel a comfortable soreness after each class so I know I am still pushing myself and toning. For all you Columbus girls, I STRONGLY encourage you all to join the class. Check out the website!
http://www.foreverfitbynancy.com/
- Miss J
I know I am not a bride (anymore), BUT I am one of many including my cousin who recommended the class to me. The class runs three times a week; however, you have the options of only going two times a week as well. It is 6-7 pm on Monday and Wednesday and 10-11 am on Saturday mornings (in the park). The beauty of the class is the flexibility to attend whichever classes work best for you. Some weeks, I go three times a week. Other weeks, I can only make it once. I also can "roll over" two classes from session to session so I don't feel like I am wasting money.
The class is a perfect setup for me as I have a hard time doing core strength training on my own. Weights are so boring and who wants to sit around and do sit ups by yourself? NOT ME! The class is a mix of Pilates, kick boxing, weights, yoga, and aerobics and is geared around interval "high intensity" workouts. Nancy does a great job of making it fun, but pushing each of her clients at the same time. After the first class, I couldn't walk for three days. Now I just feel a comfortable soreness after each class so I know I am still pushing myself and toning. For all you Columbus girls, I STRONGLY encourage you all to join the class. Check out the website!
http://www.foreverfitbynancy.com/
- Miss J
Monday, September 13, 2010
Turkey-Jasmine Rice Meatballs
I normally buy my meatballs from Trader Joe's but I got this recipe from my personal trainer and thought I'd give them a whirl. They turned out great. The recipe is detailed out below!
Serving Size: 3 meatballs - 220 calories + salad & couscous
Source: Nancy Eisenman, Certified Personal Trainer
1 cup water
1/3 cup uncooked jasmine rice
1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs (seasoned if want more flavor)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
1 lb ground turkey
2 large egg whites
1 garlic clove, minced
Cooking spray
To prepare meatballs: bring 1 cup water to a boil in a small saucepan. Stir in Jasmine Rice, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is almost tender. Drain; cool. Combine rice, breadcrumbs, and the rest of the ingredients through the garlic clove. Shape mixture into approx. 12-15 meatballs.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium; coat pan with cooking spray a little olive oil. Add meatballs; cook around until they are brown and cooked on the inside (approx. 12-15 minutes or a little more). Keep turning them and make sure they don't burn. Remove from heat; keep warm.
Cook the couscous or whole grain rice of your choice and then serve with meatballs.
Notes: I added spinach to this recipe for some added fiber. I also baked my meatballs after I quickly browned them in the skillet (to hold form). I baked them at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Use a digital thermometer to ensure that turkey is cooked (160 degrees). These meatballs were also good the next day in a tortilla wrap or pita with hummus, tomato, lettuce, and a little bit of cheese.
Ratings:
Moe, 8 out of 10
Miss J, 10 out of 10
Enjoy!
- Miss J
*No pictures as meatballs generally speaking don't photograph well :)
Serving Size: 3 meatballs - 220 calories + salad & couscous
Source: Nancy Eisenman, Certified Personal Trainer
1 cup water
1/3 cup uncooked jasmine rice
1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs (seasoned if want more flavor)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
1 lb ground turkey
2 large egg whites
1 garlic clove, minced
Cooking spray
To prepare meatballs: bring 1 cup water to a boil in a small saucepan. Stir in Jasmine Rice, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is almost tender. Drain; cool. Combine rice, breadcrumbs, and the rest of the ingredients through the garlic clove. Shape mixture into approx. 12-15 meatballs.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium; coat pan with cooking spray a little olive oil. Add meatballs; cook around until they are brown and cooked on the inside (approx. 12-15 minutes or a little more). Keep turning them and make sure they don't burn. Remove from heat; keep warm.
Cook the couscous or whole grain rice of your choice and then serve with meatballs.
Notes: I added spinach to this recipe for some added fiber. I also baked my meatballs after I quickly browned them in the skillet (to hold form). I baked them at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Use a digital thermometer to ensure that turkey is cooked (160 degrees). These meatballs were also good the next day in a tortilla wrap or pita with hummus, tomato, lettuce, and a little bit of cheese.
Ratings:
Moe, 8 out of 10
Miss J, 10 out of 10
Enjoy!
- Miss J
*No pictures as meatballs generally speaking don't photograph well :)
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Pear and Blue Cheese Salad
As promised, below is the recipe for the salad from my dinner party. This was a HUGE success! I love this because it is super easy and delicious. I often times make this to have as my main course instead of a side dish! Enjoy!
Pear and Blue Cheese Salad with a Mustard Vinaigrette
Serves 4-6
Source: Unknown (had this recipe for years)
1/2 cup to 2/3 cup of walnuts (pecans or almonds also work well)
1 tablespoon of cider vinegar
2-3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/4 ts salt
3-4 tablespoons EVOO
2 pears
3 oz blue cheese, crumbled
lettuce mix (pre-made of homemade - spinach and arugula work well)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spread nuts on a banking sheet in a single layer. Bake until nuts are toasted. You want to be sure you can smell the fragrant roasting smell before removing. Cool nuts down on a plate lined with a Scott towel for 5-10 minutes then coarsely chop with a knife.
Meanwhile, wash salad and assemble in serving bowl.
In a small dish, whisk together vinegar and Dijon mustard. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in olive oil until you get the smooth consistency of the salad dressing. You want this to be slightly thick dressing so error on the side of less as it is easier to add than to take away!
Quarter and core the pear and thinly slice to arrange on salad. Toss together pears, blue cheese, nuts, lettuce, and salad dressing. Save some extra nuts and blue cheese to garnish top of salad.
Serve immediately!!!
Rating:
Moe, 10 out of 10
Miss J, 10 out of to
Note: Picture in previous "Dinner Party!" post with I Ain't Chicken Chicken and Potatoes.
- Miss J
Pear and Blue Cheese Salad with a Mustard Vinaigrette
Serves 4-6
Source: Unknown (had this recipe for years)
1/2 cup to 2/3 cup of walnuts (pecans or almonds also work well)
1 tablespoon of cider vinegar
2-3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/4 ts salt
3-4 tablespoons EVOO
2 pears
3 oz blue cheese, crumbled
lettuce mix (pre-made of homemade - spinach and arugula work well)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spread nuts on a banking sheet in a single layer. Bake until nuts are toasted. You want to be sure you can smell the fragrant roasting smell before removing. Cool nuts down on a plate lined with a Scott towel for 5-10 minutes then coarsely chop with a knife.
Meanwhile, wash salad and assemble in serving bowl.
In a small dish, whisk together vinegar and Dijon mustard. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in olive oil until you get the smooth consistency of the salad dressing. You want this to be slightly thick dressing so error on the side of less as it is easier to add than to take away!
Quarter and core the pear and thinly slice to arrange on salad. Toss together pears, blue cheese, nuts, lettuce, and salad dressing. Save some extra nuts and blue cheese to garnish top of salad.
Serve immediately!!!
Rating:
Moe, 10 out of 10
Miss J, 10 out of to
Note: Picture in previous "Dinner Party!" post with I Ain't Chicken Chicken and Potatoes.
- Miss J
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Dinner Party!
Last Friday, I had a small dinner party. Unfortunately, my dinner table only seats six so I am always limited in the amount of guests I can have over :( This week, I decided to make a recipe from Aarti. Aarti was the winner of "The Next Food Network Star" this past season. I am just now getting into Indian food so I love her POV, point of view, (Indian flare woven into American classics). Her new show is called Aarti Paarti, and the chicken and potatoes recipe is from the first or second episode she ever recorded. I recommend trying it as I believe it was a success at my dinner party!
I Ain't Chicken Chicken
Serves 4
Source: Aarti Paarti, The Food Network
http://www.foodnetwork.com/aarti-sequeira/index.html
1 pound small red potatoes (or golden)
EVOO
3 springs fresh thyme
Salt and Pepper
1/4 cup butter softened but not melted
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 large orange zest
2 teaspoons grated ginger
4 chicken breasts, on the bone, skin in tact
Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. Using 2 sheet trays, line 1 with a cooling rack, and the other lined with parchment. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with a little olive oil, thyme leaves, and salt and pepper. Toss well. Put the potatoes on the sheet lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine butter, cardamom, orange zest, ginger, salt and pepper, to taste. Sit together with a spoon until mixed well. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Poke a small opening in the clear membrane between skin and the flesh of the chicken breast. Glide your index finger through the opening, loosening the skin from the flesh, without removing it completely. You are creating a big pocket for the butter. Repeat with other chicken.
Put a spoonful of the butter mixture through the opening you made in the skin of the chicken breast. Once its in there, smooth out the butter by gliding your finger over the skin, until it's evenly distributed. Repeat with other breasts. Arrange chicken breasts on the sheet lined with the cooling rack. Drizzle olive oil on the skin for extra crispy skin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Put the potatoes and chicken into oven and roast, turning the pans once halfway through the cooking time and stirring potatoes at about 30 minutes.
Chicken is ready when an instant read thermometer reads 160 degrees F. Remove from oven and tent with foil. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
NOTES: I used a huge roasting pan and put the potatoes at the bottom of the pan and then put the grate over the potatoes. The chicken then rested on top of the grate. I liked this method as the potatoes would catch the drippings from the chicken adding a touch more flavor to the potatoes in addition to the thyme. If potatoes are larger in size (more than an two inches in diameter) then you might want to consider throwing them in the oven earlier than the chicken or cutting them in half to avoid under cooking them.
I Ain't Chicken Chicken & Potatoes
I Ain't Chicken Chicken
Serves 4
Source: Aarti Paarti, The Food Network
http://www.foodnetwork.com/aarti-sequeira/index.html
1 pound small red potatoes (or golden)
EVOO
3 springs fresh thyme
Salt and Pepper
1/4 cup butter softened but not melted
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 large orange zest
2 teaspoons grated ginger
4 chicken breasts, on the bone, skin in tact
Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. Using 2 sheet trays, line 1 with a cooling rack, and the other lined with parchment. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with a little olive oil, thyme leaves, and salt and pepper. Toss well. Put the potatoes on the sheet lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine butter, cardamom, orange zest, ginger, salt and pepper, to taste. Sit together with a spoon until mixed well. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Poke a small opening in the clear membrane between skin and the flesh of the chicken breast. Glide your index finger through the opening, loosening the skin from the flesh, without removing it completely. You are creating a big pocket for the butter. Repeat with other chicken.
Put a spoonful of the butter mixture through the opening you made in the skin of the chicken breast. Once its in there, smooth out the butter by gliding your finger over the skin, until it's evenly distributed. Repeat with other breasts. Arrange chicken breasts on the sheet lined with the cooling rack. Drizzle olive oil on the skin for extra crispy skin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Put the potatoes and chicken into oven and roast, turning the pans once halfway through the cooking time and stirring potatoes at about 30 minutes.
Chicken is ready when an instant read thermometer reads 160 degrees F. Remove from oven and tent with foil. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
NOTES: I used a huge roasting pan and put the potatoes at the bottom of the pan and then put the grate over the potatoes. The chicken then rested on top of the grate. I liked this method as the potatoes would catch the drippings from the chicken adding a touch more flavor to the potatoes in addition to the thyme. If potatoes are larger in size (more than an two inches in diameter) then you might want to consider throwing them in the oven earlier than the chicken or cutting them in half to avoid under cooking them.
I Ain't Chicken Chicken & Potatoes
(Pear and Blue Cheese Salad recipe to post in near future!)
- Miss J
Ratings:
Moe, 8 out of 10
Miss J, 9 out of 10
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Suprise! Suprise!
This past week Moe and I were on a "staycation". I had NEVER heard of this term until about two weeks ago when my friend explained to me that a "staycation" was the latest fad since we are in a recesssion and people are trying to save however possible. I responded with, "we are so broke so sign us up!" Moe primarily worked on his application for residency during the week, but I decided one of the days to plan a suprise trip for him. I had spent weeks trying to figure out what the best "suprise outting" would be. I considered wine tasting, hiking, picnics in the park, dinner and a movie, and even a trip to a bed and breakfast for a night. However, I wanted to do something that Moe would absolutely love (and we had never done before), so I finally landed on ZIP LINING!!!
I had heard about a new course that had opened up in Mohican Park area (1.5 hours from Columbus) so I decided to sign us up. Since Moe and I live uneventful lives, I decided I was going to keep it a surprise from him until the last second to try to make it more fun. I have done extreme sporting activities (skydiving and canyoning) in Switzerland but had never zip lined so this would be a new experience that we could share together. Moe hates surprises so he was less than thrilled when Thursday morning I was telling him what to wear and which shoes to bring. Moe had also never been to this area of Ohio so when I put the address in the GPS and he still didn't know where we were going, I could see his annoyance growing. However, after the scenic drive through Amish Country, and 1.5 hours of trying to convince Moe that we were going to tour a Dairy Farm, we arrived at the zip line course in one piece. As we sat in the car, Moe was still trying to process what was going on. He saw the "Tree Canopy Tours" sign but apparently missed the zip lining sign under it. I tried to have him brainstorm things we could do in trees (climbing, swinging, rapelling, etc) and he at one point through out "bird watching" as a desperate guess! I finally just dropped the secret that we were zip lining for the day!!!!
The course consits of 7 zip lines starting with 145 ft zip and ending with an 1,100 ft zip. The course also includes two sky bridges and two rapels (60 ft and 50 ft). I was a bit terrified as I am still working on my fear of heights, but after the first zip I was good to go! You are always linked onto the cables through two clamps for added security. You also have two guides with you at all times so the risk of falling is next to nothing! There were a total of six people in our group and the total course took about two hours. It was alittle pricy but worth every penny! We both had so much fun, and I encourage all fo you to go and try out the course if you are ever passing through the area. Below are some of the photos from the day as well as the website!
- Miss J
Rating:
Moe, 10 out of 10
Miss J, 10 out of 10
http://www.treefrogcanopytours.com/
Sky Bridge #2
Between each zip you stand on tree platforms while clamped to the wires for safety!
Looking out off the tree platform edge - 120 feet in the air!
Miss J on the zip line!
Moe rapelling down from one of the tree platforms!
I had heard about a new course that had opened up in Mohican Park area (1.5 hours from Columbus) so I decided to sign us up. Since Moe and I live uneventful lives, I decided I was going to keep it a surprise from him until the last second to try to make it more fun. I have done extreme sporting activities (skydiving and canyoning) in Switzerland but had never zip lined so this would be a new experience that we could share together. Moe hates surprises so he was less than thrilled when Thursday morning I was telling him what to wear and which shoes to bring. Moe had also never been to this area of Ohio so when I put the address in the GPS and he still didn't know where we were going, I could see his annoyance growing. However, after the scenic drive through Amish Country, and 1.5 hours of trying to convince Moe that we were going to tour a Dairy Farm, we arrived at the zip line course in one piece. As we sat in the car, Moe was still trying to process what was going on. He saw the "Tree Canopy Tours" sign but apparently missed the zip lining sign under it. I tried to have him brainstorm things we could do in trees (climbing, swinging, rapelling, etc) and he at one point through out "bird watching" as a desperate guess! I finally just dropped the secret that we were zip lining for the day!!!!
The course consits of 7 zip lines starting with 145 ft zip and ending with an 1,100 ft zip. The course also includes two sky bridges and two rapels (60 ft and 50 ft). I was a bit terrified as I am still working on my fear of heights, but after the first zip I was good to go! You are always linked onto the cables through two clamps for added security. You also have two guides with you at all times so the risk of falling is next to nothing! There were a total of six people in our group and the total course took about two hours. It was alittle pricy but worth every penny! We both had so much fun, and I encourage all fo you to go and try out the course if you are ever passing through the area. Below are some of the photos from the day as well as the website!
- Miss J
Rating:
Moe, 10 out of 10
Miss J, 10 out of 10
http://www.treefrogcanopytours.com/
Sky Bridge #2Between each zip you stand on tree platforms while clamped to the wires for safety!
Looking out off the tree platform edge - 120 feet in the air!
Miss J on the zip line! Moe rapelling down from one of the tree platforms!
Moe on the zip line!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Apples and Potatoes
Source: weightwatchers.com, by Dining For Two, from Weight Watchers Publishing Group
This was a quick healthy meal that was ready in about 40 minutes (including prep time)!
1 Tbsp flat leaf parsley, fresh, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp EVOO
1/2 tsp table salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 pound(s) lean pork tenderloin (I used 3 round pork tenderloin slices)
1 large sweet potato(es), (10-ounce) peeled and cut crosswise into 8 slices
1 Tbsp water
1 medium apple(s), cut into 6 wedges
1 tsp packed brown sugar, dark
1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Mix the parsley, lemon zest, garlic, oil, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, and the pepper to a paste in a small bowl. Place the pork in the baking dish. Spread the parsley mixture evenly over the top of the pork and let stand 5–10 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the sweet potato slices and water in a small microwavable casserole dish. Cover and microwave on High for 3 minutes; drain.
Place the sweet potato slices and apple wedges around the pork. Lightly spray the sweet potato and apple with nonstick spray, then sprinkle with the sugar, cinnamon, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Roast until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of the pork registers 160°F for medium and the sweet potato and apple are tender, about 30 minutes. Cover the pork lightly with a foil tent and let stand 5 minutes. Serve when ready.
Yields 3-4 pork slices, 4 sweet potato slices, and 3 apple wedges per serving. Weight Watcher Points - 10 per serving.
Ratings:
Moe, 9 out of 10
Miss J, 9 out of 10
Fresh out of the oven!
ENJOY!
- Miss J
This was a quick healthy meal that was ready in about 40 minutes (including prep time)!
1 Tbsp flat leaf parsley, fresh, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp EVOO
1/2 tsp table salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 pound(s) lean pork tenderloin (I used 3 round pork tenderloin slices)
1 large sweet potato(es), (10-ounce) peeled and cut crosswise into 8 slices
1 Tbsp water
1 medium apple(s), cut into 6 wedges
1 tsp packed brown sugar, dark
1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Mix the parsley, lemon zest, garlic, oil, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, and the pepper to a paste in a small bowl. Place the pork in the baking dish. Spread the parsley mixture evenly over the top of the pork and let stand 5–10 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the sweet potato slices and water in a small microwavable casserole dish. Cover and microwave on High for 3 minutes; drain.
Place the sweet potato slices and apple wedges around the pork. Lightly spray the sweet potato and apple with nonstick spray, then sprinkle with the sugar, cinnamon, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Roast until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of the pork registers 160°F for medium and the sweet potato and apple are tender, about 30 minutes. Cover the pork lightly with a foil tent and let stand 5 minutes. Serve when ready.
Yields 3-4 pork slices, 4 sweet potato slices, and 3 apple wedges per serving. Weight Watcher Points - 10 per serving.
Ratings:
Moe, 9 out of 10
Miss J, 9 out of 10
Fresh out of the oven!ENJOY!
- Miss J
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Review of Wicked
This past weekend, Moe and I went to see the Broadway show Wicked. I was skeptical when I first heard it was coming to town as I am not a huge fan of the Wizard of Oz. However, so many of my friends were ranting and raving about how wonderful it was so we decided to check it out on our week off. The trip to the theater was a bit of a disaster as Moe can not drive and talk on the phone. The theater was in the center of the city, and Moe gets on the wrong freeway and starts driving to his work. He then tried to explain to me that the route he took is actually faster. A ten minute car trip quickly turned into a half hour.
Once we arrived at the theater, it was a complete cluster with people everywhere. As the usher scanned our tickets, he pointed over to a side stairway that no one else was one. Moe and I were thrilled to escape the heard of people until we realized that this private stairs took us up three flights of stairs to the very top of the balcony. As we shuffled into our seats, second row from the back of the highest balcony, I was suddenly regretting the decision to go the cheap route for our tickets. However, as soon as the show started, nothing else mattered. Although we were way too far away to see the performers faces, we were still able to follow the storyline and enjoy the music! It was entertaining with a creative twist to the traditional Wizard of Oz storyline. We both found ourselves laughing at multiple scenes which was a pleasant surprise after our stressful weekend. Overall, I would definitely recommend this musical to any of my friends or family. Although it was not the BEST musical I had ever seen, it definitely made my top five list!
- Miss J
Official Website:
http://www.wickedthemusical.com/#
Once we arrived at the theater, it was a complete cluster with people everywhere. As the usher scanned our tickets, he pointed over to a side stairway that no one else was one. Moe and I were thrilled to escape the heard of people until we realized that this private stairs took us up three flights of stairs to the very top of the balcony. As we shuffled into our seats, second row from the back of the highest balcony, I was suddenly regretting the decision to go the cheap route for our tickets. However, as soon as the show started, nothing else mattered. Although we were way too far away to see the performers faces, we were still able to follow the storyline and enjoy the music! It was entertaining with a creative twist to the traditional Wizard of Oz storyline. We both found ourselves laughing at multiple scenes which was a pleasant surprise after our stressful weekend. Overall, I would definitely recommend this musical to any of my friends or family. Although it was not the BEST musical I had ever seen, it definitely made my top five list!
- Miss J
Official Website:
http://www.wickedthemusical.com/#
Take note of the Row Y (second to last row in the entire theater)!
Photo of Program Cover
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