tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1804865941177496922024-03-12T23:55:53.398-05:00Capturing the little thingsCassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-13696957135802662202011-10-19T09:17:00.001-05:002011-10-20T19:32:28.778-05:00Thank you, ArkansasFor keeping all us Arkansan's on our toes! Sunday it was 85 degrees outside...this mornin, it was 30. I sorta LOVE it! Also, E wore his coat today for the first time since last winter, and he found his ipod in his jacket pocket.....he's been looking for that all year! Also, I had Chic-Fil-A for breakfast. and am now drinking pumpkin spice tea...So far, today is a good Wednesday!<br />
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Except I forgot my phone at home.....therefore, no dinner pics. sadness<br />
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But i can tell you that dinner was stinkin' good. Remember that pasta I mentioned yesterday? well, we had that + fried tofu and broccoli (yes, I fried the broccoli. So?) ..more on that later. You know. when i have pictures..<br />
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in other news, I have RE-discovered pinterest. and it's amazing!! unfortunately, now i want to redo my whole house, buy a new wardrobe, etc, etc..the downfall of pinterest for many, i assume.<br />
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I do plan on getting my hands on <a href="http://www.everythingturquoise.com/search/label/Rugs">this</a> rug eventually.. it's just begging to go in my sunroom.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AzWzmDvyfG4/Tp7b1ajr7UI/AAAAAAAAAy0/QXrJFRhQaTE/s1600/rug1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AzWzmDvyfG4/Tp7b1ajr7UI/AAAAAAAAAy0/QXrJFRhQaTE/s320/rug1.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can't stop staring at it ...</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
well, that's it for now...see you soon!Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-18035443811198391712011-10-18T10:43:00.000-05:002011-10-18T10:43:29.628-05:00We didn't cook much this weekend..<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This weekend we did many things. Cooking was not a big part of those many things....</div><div style="text-align: center;">Remember how excited I was about taco salad on Friday? I went to the store right after work, got everything we needed, made sure the kitchen was clean so we could start-a cookin' when E got home....and then we ended up getting pizza with a friend. Oops. Sorry beautiful, ripe, avocado! (don't worry, it lasted until last night!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So that was friday. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Saturday, I went to the craft fair with a few friends from work - GREAT fun! Pics to follow. Lunch consisted of a teeny tiny $4 hamburger. mmm.....yuck</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We did grill that night, that is..E grilled. </div><div style="text-align: center;">So that's home cooked meal #1 in 2 days - not cool, Holders.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> E grilled up some rockin' chicken that he marinated in A1, worchestire, and...vegetable broth(?), rosemary potatoes, and the rest of our brussels sprouts...which sadly turned out a little too chewy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> But that's ok:) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_b8vk1Y_fMM/Tp2WF-HeZSI/AAAAAAAAAxc/heH3_NUWRz8/s1600/grilling+veggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_b8vk1Y_fMM/Tp2WF-HeZSI/AAAAAAAAAxc/heH3_NUWRz8/s320/grilling+veggies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They still look pretty :) </td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Let's see.. Sunday, I woke up to bacon and french toast. Because my husband loves me. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> Then we had an amazing dinner ( just a reminder, on Sundays thats lunch, yall) which consisted of TONS of chicken, roasted potatoes, purple hull peas, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, fresh peppers, and FRIED SQUASH. so good. I love sunday's at my parents house. Did I mention my Mamma's fried squash is ridiculously good?</div><div style="text-align: center;"> SO good, y'all......</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">If you're wondering how she makes them, I'm pretty sure all she does is cut them into thick steak fry-like sticks, coats them in cornmeal, a little flour, salt and pepper, and then fries them in a cast iron pan. it's possible that she uses crisco to do this. Just like she makes fried okra. You think the woman would be much larger......</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">not so much.</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aj32pIHgn3M/Tp2XHBiWQ8I/AAAAAAAAAxk/0MlnOtTrMfY/s1600/mamma+and+deddy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aj32pIHgn3M/Tp2XHBiWQ8I/AAAAAAAAAxk/0MlnOtTrMfY/s320/mamma+and+deddy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My parents are so stinkin' cute. This is them after i said "act like you like each other!" </td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sunday night......we went down the street for sushi. Geez! Fail. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We did enjoy some lovely tea that morning before lunch at one of our favorite coffee shops, </div><div style="text-align: center;">Iron Horse Coffee Company </div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JVXFwqz-sBI/Tp2ZihaaSXI/AAAAAAAAAx8/6fW5ElK0i9w/s1600/sunday+tea" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JVXFwqz-sBI/Tp2ZihaaSXI/AAAAAAAAAx8/6fW5ElK0i9w/s320/sunday+tea" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had irish breakfast - E Had sushi house green..and then he bought me a whole box of pumpkin spice! <3</td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">and that night we had a lovely chat by the fire pit ( did i just say lovely chat? wow.) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NVDPyo_OV1Y/Tp2Z13qHFpI/AAAAAAAAAyE/xOGFvr5Q8Kc/s1600/Sunday+firepit" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NVDPyo_OV1Y/Tp2Z13qHFpI/AAAAAAAAAyE/xOGFvr5Q8Kc/s320/Sunday+firepit" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">......and then we went out and bought fancy pasta. Because I had had a sample of {overpriced} homemade pasta at the craft fair and suddenly REALLY wanted some. It was amazing...but seriously, Cassie?? whatever. it was worth it. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">..and that brings us to Monday night. Finally, <b>the taco's!!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">There's not much of a recipe for taco's. I mean taco's are taco's. right? Well just for fun, and for future reference for myself...here's what we piled into our taco salad bowls (which are amazing!)</div><br />
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*Ground beef seasoned to perfection by Mr Holder with who knows what...<br />
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*1/2 onion, 3 cloves chopped garlic,1 whole bell pepper, - all sauteed - in that order, of course<br />
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*black beans<br />
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*Tomato<br />
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*sliced avocado<br />
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*chopped cilantro<br />
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*lime<br />
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*cheeeese<br />
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*sour cream<br />
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*spinach<br />
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and with that we shared a banana pepper that we grew in our garden. Literally the only one all year...darn heat.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MA98XwNagOk/Tp2efbBYoeI/AAAAAAAAAys/Og4gVqgcLhU/s1600/taco" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MA98XwNagOk/Tp2efbBYoeI/AAAAAAAAAys/Og4gVqgcLhU/s320/taco" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Oooh yeah. I gotta start taking pictures with my real camera instead of my phone....lazy.</span></span></span></td></tr>
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we <3 taco's!<br />
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and we love these taco shells-<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lhkeyj7vA40/Tp2YdjsBA3I/AAAAAAAAAx0/2gg9QBp5vDM/s1600/taco+shells+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="309" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lhkeyj7vA40/Tp2YdjsBA3I/AAAAAAAAAx0/2gg9QBp5vDM/s320/taco+shells+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They're so darn good its stupid!</td></tr>
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</div><br />
<br />
And now...my super awesome craft fair finds!!! Don't be jealous..<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kEtzskwohWY/Tp2aNYWljXI/AAAAAAAAAyM/PYldT5broyY/s1600/craft+fair1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kEtzskwohWY/Tp2aNYWljXI/AAAAAAAAAyM/PYldT5broyY/s320/craft+fair1" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Find #1 - LOVE this sign for Christmas. Honestly, I'd like to put it up now...but someone won't let me:P</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EjJw05-296A/Tp2aOwgy6wI/AAAAAAAAAyc/09RO20ufXHc/s1600/craft+fair+3" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EjJw05-296A/Tp2aOwgy6wI/AAAAAAAAAyc/09RO20ufXHc/s320/craft+fair+3" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finds # 2,3 & 4. The scarf is vintage and only cost me a dollar - the sweet little wooden guy was in a $4 "goodie bag" which consisted of a black seal...and a bunch of creepy animal-type things made of seashells....which i threw away because they freaked me out. and that super cool zebra - well- do i need to explain? he's adorable. hand made- only $11( fyi -he's wooden- not stuffed. ) I love my new friends:) </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bWRZwZxi5Y8/Tp2aPrlJMoI/AAAAAAAAAyk/InxmI-MRHjg/s1600/craft+fair+2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bWRZwZxi5Y8/Tp2aPrlJMoI/AAAAAAAAAyk/InxmI-MRHjg/s320/craft+fair+2" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#5. i mean, come on! It's a vintage suitcase ( complete with Hawaii sticker on the handle) with a lovely saying....oh, and also. it's a table. yes those legs are attached. I may paint them, but how unique! Only $35.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F3yY1yCQTas/Tp2aOWC8JaI/AAAAAAAAAyU/0bCSdv6NDz0/s1600/craft+fair+pup" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F3yY1yCQTas/Tp2aOWC8JaI/AAAAAAAAAyU/0bCSdv6NDz0/s320/craft+fair+pup" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And then there was this guy. sweetest little sunglass, visor wearin' pup ever. He belonged to this super cool army vet who now makes and sells..you guessed it- doggy sunglasses and visors. we saw SO many dogs with these on halfway through the day. it was awesome<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> So far, tonight's menu consists of that late-night pasta (garlic, parsley fettucini) most likely topped only with butter and olive oil because that's all it needs, maybe some garlic bread, and a vegetable. I'm thinking broccoli...but you never know!</span></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Happy Tuesday! </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-45265537108851349892011-10-14T10:47:00.000-05:002011-10-14T10:47:09.705-05:00Why food? (and some sexy chicken)Well, that's an easy question!<br />
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E and I love to cook together. We always have - I know- we're awesome!<br />
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One of the first dates we had involved "cooking" in his tiny campus apartment ( the quotations are there because, well, the meal was Pad Thai from a box...but we tweaked it, of course!). Sure, we love eating out just as much as the next person, but we also really love spending our evenings together in the kitchen. and I love food. period. So, there you have it.<br />
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Thankfully our meals we make together these days have evolved from boxed thai, although that is still one of our favorite lazy night meals... Over the years we've picked up on each others strengths and weaknesses in the kitchen. For example...Any super complicated, precise, measure-heavy dish - all him. I'm more of the haphazard, throw in a little of this, and a chunk of that and see what happens kinda gal. 60% of the time..it works EVERY time....<br />
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that doesn't make any sense.<br />
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SO - long answer short- food make sense because I, we, love it. A LOT. Yep.<br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Side note: ( I had to have one..) The thing about our dinner plans..is that they're made early. Sometimes it's first thing in the morning, sometimes its sometime earlier in the week. I have the habit of going nuts brainstorming for thursday night's meal before we've even gotten to lunch on monday. which is great- less planning later....except the thing about those dinner plans ... is that they change with our mood. A lot..</div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">thats why I got a call last night from E ...who went out to get chicken. Sadly his quest for chicken was blinded by an array of other possibilities...namely pork chops... pork chops? Such a guy..</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Luckily for me he came home with chicken in hand..and an avocado...because he loves me :) </div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>So, dinner. here's the run down</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Thursday: Roasted Butternut Squash and Sexy (yes, sexy) Chicken </b></div><div><b><br />
</b></div><div>Let's start with the fun part. My all-time favorite side dish, and a sure sign that it's fall around these parts - the butternut squash. I need more. Now. </div><div><br />
</div><div><i>Roasted Butternut Squash (adapted from an array of other recipe's..but mostly my own noggin)</i></div><div><i><div><br />
</div><div><u>Ingredients</u></div><div><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-1 medium/large butternut squash - peeled and cubed</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">(</span> we only use the skinny part for roasting, the thick part we either cut in half and cook like a sweet potato or turn int soup..tmi?) </div><div><br />
</div></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-Roughly 2 TBS rosemary </span>(we used dried. because that what we had)</div><div><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-1 tbs autumn spice</span> (or paprika, allspice, whatever sounds autumn-y to you. We found our "autumn spice" in a spice shop in colorado. Its' so good, I'm only allowed to use it during fall - details to follow) </div><div><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-3 cloves of garlic - minced</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-Enough extra virgin olive oil to coat</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-Salt and pepper </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><u>Instructions</u></div><div><u><br />
</u></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*Preheat oven to 400</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*Add all ingredients to a bowl and toss to coat</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3SUzGlr19cA/TphSZGYPNDI/AAAAAAAAAwU/XnZJUSBsqmI/s1600/Squash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3SUzGlr19cA/TphSZGYPNDI/AAAAAAAAAwU/XnZJUSBsqmI/s320/Squash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*Spread squash out evenly on baking sheet</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WY60oFFA32Y/TphTEG9TF0I/AAAAAAAAAwk/QiceWndKggc/s1600/squash2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WY60oFFA32Y/TphTEG9TF0I/AAAAAAAAAwk/QiceWndKggc/s320/squash2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*Roast squash for 45 min. to an hour (turning occasionally) until crispy</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ixtt_gbC-JY/TphT4JvTPAI/AAAAAAAAAxE/V3MQ5qP352w/s1600/done+squash" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ixtt_gbC-JY/TphT4JvTPAI/AAAAAAAAAxE/V3MQ5qP352w/s320/done+squash" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Seriously....</span></span></span></td></tr>
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</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">These little babies are so STINKIN good. I told you, I was on a roasting kick this week. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">Alright, sexy chicken. I dont know what it is about chicken cooked in broth like this. but it is seriously sexy. That's really all I have to say. and that sauce? It's also pretty darn good on the squash. and by itself...really.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i><div style="text-align: left;">Sexy Chicken</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></i></span></div><div><u>Ingredients</u></div><div><u><br />
</u></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-1 Chicken Breast </span>( or however many you want to cook. we always try to split our protein..portion control!) </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-2 + cups vegetable broth</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-3 cloves garlic, sliced </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-Autumn Seasoning </span>(yep)</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-Salt and Pepper</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">-2 TBS butter</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><u>Instructions</u></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*Add vegetable broth to a pot and season with lots of pepper, autumn spice and garlic -heat until boiling</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*Add the chicken breast to broth - reduce heat to medium-high </span>(<i><div style="display: inline !important;">add extra broth as neeeded to cover chicken)</div></i></div><div><i><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*"boil" chicken until fully cooked.</span></div></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">* heat skillet with 2 tbs butter</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*remove chicken from liquid and add to hot pan </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*turn heat up on liquid until a slight bubbly-foam is created on top</span> (basically, you're reducing it into a sauce)</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C6_Kv-emDzA/TphTVPUyOkI/AAAAAAAAAws/qzsfeC4QOco/s1600/bubbles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C6_Kv-emDzA/TphTVPUyOkI/AAAAAAAAAws/qzsfeC4QOco/s320/bubbles.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Like this!</span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">* gradually begin to ladle the liquid over chicken </span></div></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fX8wg5QWdP4/TphTicskbBI/AAAAAAAAAw0/tRBX3CwiZWg/s1600/happy+chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fX8wg5QWdP4/TphTicskbBI/AAAAAAAAAw0/tRBX3CwiZWg/s320/happy+chicken.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*cook chicken covered with liquid about 5 minutes</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IjLvKS8562w/TphTtQTNNKI/AAAAAAAAAw8/rKVn-2n6PcY/s1600/stove" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IjLvKS8562w/TphTtQTNNKI/AAAAAAAAAw8/rKVn-2n6PcY/s320/stove" width="320" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">*Serve that sexy chicken! </span></div></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">Oh, and for anyone curious- this is the spice mix we use. the ingredients are at the bottom. super simple. super awesome. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XdrC9n4ShdI/TphS4cX0G3I/AAAAAAAAAwc/b2Jr-kfbI00/s1600/autumn+spice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XdrC9n4ShdI/TphS4cX0G3I/AAAAAAAAAwc/b2Jr-kfbI00/s320/autumn+spice.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">The final result...oh, thats a terrible picture...c'mon Iphone. It was dark pretty dark, but such a lovely night for dinner on the patio.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8q5raBmxwN0/TphUXGh_tBI/AAAAAAAAAxM/1GrefsTWEAc/s1600/blurry+dinner+shot" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8q5raBmxwN0/TphUXGh_tBI/AAAAAAAAAxM/1GrefsTWEAc/s320/blurry+dinner+shot" width="320" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">..and then my amazing husband made milkshakes for dinner, and the portion control is thrown out the window!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oDbDyFaabkc/TphZZmYDuoI/AAAAAAAAAxU/khxUJZfAkbI/s1600/milkshakes" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oDbDyFaabkc/TphZZmYDuoI/AAAAAAAAAxU/khxUJZfAkbI/s320/milkshakes" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">mmm.....</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">There you have it! Thursday night dinner at the Holder hut. Tonight our plan is chorizo taco salad ..but you never know. .</span></div></i></div><div><i><br />
</i></div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-14877272235307283922011-10-13T11:23:00.000-05:002011-10-13T11:23:53.798-05:00Ahem.....let's talk about food<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I know. I know- its time for my monthly post. whatever, Cassie..why do you bother? </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Well..</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> I was thinking this morning about how sad it is that I start thinking about dinner around 9:00am... and so instead of trying to find something interesting to say about my every day life on my blog ( which obviously is a little difficult.),I'm going to start using this website as a dinner log. Partially to share any crazy or crazy-good concoctions that E and I try or create, and also so that I can keep track of the dinners we make. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The best part is, I'm constantly taking pictures of my food anyway...so that part is taken care of! </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I plan on doing this every day that we cook during the week ( stop laughing) but since today is thursday, I'll start with a run down of this weeks meals so far. NOT ALL posts will be 5millionparagraphslong.....promise.</span></span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Sunday: Roasted Broccoli and pasta what I like to call Stupid-Good sauce.</span></span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> Last sunday we had the rare task of making our own lunch. Typically sunday lunch is at my parents house, and it is always amazing. ALWAYS. however, this sunday we were on our own. So, we resisted the urge to go out for lunch and made THE. BEST. PASTA SAUCE. EVER. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I'm not kidding. </span></span></div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stupid-good sauce</span></span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The sauce is LITERALLY a large can of whole tomatoes, one onion - halved- and BUTTER. Yes, butter. that is it. and it is miraculous</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">We also finally made roasted broccoli. I don't know why this never occurred to me before, we make broccoli at least once a week but have never roasted it. Holy. Cow. SO amazing..</span></span><br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Both Recipe's </span></span><a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2011/10/03/so-good-its-pissing-me-off/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Found Here - my new favorite cooking blog</span></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> ( seriously, have you checked out this blog? I love her.) </span></span><br />
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</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Here is the finished product. Complete with sweet tea, because it isn't sunday dinner (which means lunch, southern-speak) without sweet tea!</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g7hCc28L3H4/TpcB6Ro73II/AAAAAAAAAv0/0Or4xfhOr-Q/s1600/sunday+lunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g7hCc28L3H4/TpcB6Ro73II/AAAAAAAAAv0/0Or4xfhOr-Q/s320/sunday+lunch.jpg" width="320" /></span></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Oh, and that onion you throw in the sauce? sure, you take it out at the end, but DON'T throw it away! It's totally re-useable. we used it the next day....you'll see.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Monday: Roasted Brussels Sprouts and E's Shepherds Pie.</span></span></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Brussels sprouts are back in season, and I am SO happy about this! we'll probably have them again this week...different recipe of course. </span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Roasted Brussels Sprouts</span></span></i><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ingredients:</span></span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">as many brussels sprouts as you want</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">olive oil</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">salt and pepper.</span></span><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Instructions</span></span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">These are so easy its ridiculous. Just cut the cute little cabbages in half, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and LOTS of pepper. Roast them at 425 for 12-ish minutes on each side. Best thing ever.</span></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> I think roasted vegetables are my new happy food. Srsly.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">E's Shepherds Pie</span></span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">* I had to email him to get the recipe. ALL him, guys..all him. I'm so lucky. I did have to make a few notes-for clarification- they're italicized. </span></span></i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">This was totally a non-recipe, whatever we had on hand, shepherds pie. And i wouldn't have it any other way. </span></span><br />
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<i><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ingredients</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">:</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1lb of lean ground beef<u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 yellow onion (</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Remember that onion i said NOT to throw away? oh yeah...) <u></u></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">3 cloves garlic<u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Paprika<u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Salt<u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">5-6 red potatoes<u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">½ stick of butter<u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 cup (?) milk<u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Garlic salt <u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Bam powder (?) </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">( he means Emeril's essence..or what we like to call, essence from the spice weasel. get it?)<u></u></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">2 cups chick or veg broth<u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 cup red wine </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">( we used pinot noir, BC we had it..) <u></u><u></u></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 cup each of moneray and chedder<u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Instructions</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*Boil potatoes until soft, mash and add butter, milk, and spices</span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*Sear ground beef and make space in middle of pan to cook chopped onion till translucent and then add garlic. cook until soft. Mix beef and veggies together till meat is dark brown and pan has a good layer of sticky stuff. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(LOL! Sticky stuff?? well, okay..) </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*Move beef mix to 9”x9” casserole pan and turn stove heat to high. When the pan is just about to start smoking add broth and wine and cook till reduced by ½-1/4 volume then poor over beef.</span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*Layer potatoes on top of beef and cover with aprox. 2 cups of cheese</span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*Bake at 375 for 15-20 min.</span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*I think that’ll be good enough. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">( I had to leave that in there..he's so cute) </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">"</span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">here's the finished product! I have no idea how to make shepherds pie look as good as it tastes....</span></span></span></div></i><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tuesday: My Mamma's Vegetable Soup and Pumpkin Cornbread.</span></span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I'm hesitant to share this recipe...because it is, after all, a family recipe. But that being said, it is a FAMILY recipe. Therefore theres not much of an actual "recipe" to go along with it..so i'll give you the basic run down..</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Mamma's Vegetable soup </span></span></i><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ingredients</span></span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">-about a half a cup each of frozen butter beans, peas ( we use purple hull), and Okra</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">-1/2 -1 lb of ground beef</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">-enough (yes, enough) potatoes, diced ( I used 6 red potatoes because thats what we have. my Mamma usually uses baking potatoes which is just as good..probably better).</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">-1 large can of tomatoes, doesn't really matter how they're cute ( I used diced, BC that's what E bought) </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">-1 can creamed corn. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">-vegetable broth as needed ( my ONLY tweak-sorry Mamma........)</span></span><br />
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<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Instructions( straight from my mamma..told you- not much of a recipe! hehe)</span></span></u><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*Cook beans and peas in </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">vegetable</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> broth for 15 minutes<br />
*Add other ingredients except corn, crumble meat as you add it, and cook 20 minutes </span></span><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">( I added a little more vegetable broth at this point, and cooked it for about 10 minutes longer to get the right consistency)</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
*Add corn and cook 10 minutes longer.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">really, you could cook this in a crock pot on low for a while and it'd still be amazing! Sadly, i don't have a picture of this soup..but if you're going to make it, just know that its not very..soupy. its a very thick, vegetable-y soup. and its amazing. trust me.</span></span><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Pumpkin Cornbread</span></span></i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">well. E made these. and he found the recipe </span></span><a href="http://www.recipegirl.com/2008/10/01/pumpkin-cornbread-with-pumpkin-chili-of-course/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">.... it was SUPER good (side note, i must try that pumpkin chili..)! He's planning on making a sweeter rendition for a bake sale soon. I'll share that recipe when it happens.</span></span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">And finally, the plan for tonight </span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">( oh, tonight..so excited about tonight..)</span></span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">"Boiled" chicken with butter and autumn spices with..ROASTED BUTTER NUT SQUASH!!!!</span></span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> yeah, I just "yelled" that. that's how excited I am. )</span></span><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*disclaimer...we don't literally boil the chicken. Ok, we do, but not like you think. it's cut into small pieces and cooked in seasoned broth. We got the idea from cooking fondue and it REALLY is amazing. I'll have more details tomorrow. </span></span></i><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">well, that was fun! </span></span></i><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(another) Side note: our favorite couple came to visit us last weekend and it was THE BEST WEEKEND EVER! Here's a happy toast to send off my first (hopefully not lat) food-heavy post!</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vcmXjhzMfaU/TpcHO0d2TCI/AAAAAAAAAv8/1HF9utxwJpA/s1600/a+toast" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vcmXjhzMfaU/TpcHO0d2TCI/AAAAAAAAAv8/1HF9utxwJpA/s320/a+toast" width="320" /></span></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">and, of course, a puppy picture for good measure.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UGROKGZEfs8/TpcMyGbP5eI/AAAAAAAAAwM/PFJ8082fnhc/s1600/henry" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UGROKGZEfs8/TpcMyGbP5eI/AAAAAAAAAwM/PFJ8082fnhc/s320/henry" width="320" /></span></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">trying to be a lap dog.. he's so cute its not even fair.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">well, in the words of my favorite chef Mr Alton Brown (yes. I'm that kind of nerd), I bid you all good eats! </span></span>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-36742518854652666932011-08-04T11:21:00.000-05:002011-08-04T11:21:38.706-05:00gah...sorry!Ok. so, apparently I have somehow dislocated my..ribhead? making it incredibly painful to type. sit. lay down. recline. Its incredibly NOT cool! Ive even had a co-worker ( who just happens to be an incredible massage therapist) fix it- TWICE- and it just keeps goin' back.. Anyhoo- so so so so sorry about leaving my second post hangin' hopefully next week i will be back with a vengeance..and with a post or two about refinishing our dining room table! ( assuming i can even work on it...sigh..) In the meantime, have a lovely thursday, and an INCREDIBLE weekend!Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-85318469137742465252011-08-01T10:06:00.000-05:002011-08-01T10:06:56.303-05:00Well, shootI have yet to share pt two of my list! one crazy weekend plus one majorly screwed up back and shoulder have prevented me from typin it up....hopefully it will come tomorrow! in the meantime, he's a pic of me an mah sweet pup chillin in the pool on Saturday!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UNVUmAdMnOY/TjbA4T64JuI/AAAAAAAAAvw/4D0SYP9J8Ng/s1600/pup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UNVUmAdMnOY/TjbA4T64JuI/AAAAAAAAAvw/4D0SYP9J8Ng/s320/pup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-48142343651366130022011-07-28T10:59:00.000-05:002011-07-28T10:59:08.990-05:00My Ten Things.This post is inspired by the lovely Annie over at <a href="http://anniesbutterworth.blogspot.com/2011/07/ten-things-part-i.html">Turning Pages</a>, which was inspired by another of my favorites, <a href="http://blog.cjanerun.com/2011/06/ten-little-things.html">C. Jane</a>. Such a fantastic idea, I cannot pass it up. They both shared ten things that make their life more enjoyable, more simplified, more in-control. What a great idea! I am sure we all have these things, but really stopping to think about it, to recognize these things, and to really internalize them so that they're conscious joys, turn them into a reliable source of happiness. How cool. Seriously.<br />
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So, without further ramblings, Here is part 1 my list. ( Following suit, and due to lack of posting time, part 2 will come tomorrow!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cyZQnpALWXo/TjGASaPzSlI/AAAAAAAAAvc/sMY03j2Xnrg/s1600/Tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cyZQnpALWXo/TjGASaPzSlI/AAAAAAAAAvc/sMY03j2Xnrg/s320/Tea.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite tea {honey ginseng} at one of my favorite <a href="http://www.commongroundsar.com/">places</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>1. <i><b>My daily tea break</b></i><b>.</b> I am not a coffee drinker by nature. Don't get me wrong, I love coffee, but if I don't drink it regularly, I crash. I crash hard. Tea, on the other hand, is something that I can rely on to do good by me. I even carry a few bags with me everywhere I go, just in case.<br />
Every day, I find a minute or two, sit in quiet, drink my tea, and contemplate my day, have a quiet conversation with God, or just think about nothing. It gives me fantastic perspective and piece of mind.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">~~~~~</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mJhOWSxTxco/TjGCOb6stsI/AAAAAAAAAvk/iaE2d_NRZ54/s1600/baby+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mJhOWSxTxco/TjGCOb6stsI/AAAAAAAAAvk/iaE2d_NRZ54/s320/baby+garden.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> {The beginnings of our garden the day we planted it- SO TINY!} </td></tr>
</tbody></table>2.<b> </b><i><b>Watering my garden.</b> </i> I love the responsibility of keeping our vegetable garden alive and well. It's one of the few "home owner chores" that I haven't really tired of yet. I love going out into the cool morning every morning to water them, and watering them again as soon as I get home. Sometimes, the dogs even help :)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">~~~~~</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br />
</span></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wxOkmgAX2I0/TjGA8ge8ocI/AAAAAAAAAvg/ZtVgkarJmRo/s1600/cooking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wxOkmgAX2I0/TjGA8ge8ocI/AAAAAAAAAvg/ZtVgkarJmRo/s320/cooking.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{Making fondu for the parents, circa 2007}</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">3.<i><b> Planning and Cooking Dinner.</b></i> I love dinner ( or supper, as it's referred to in my family). It's my favorite part of the day, I think. And I love cooking with E. Sometimes I get to work in the morning and immediately start thinking about what we can cook for dinner. And then the emails start - recipe swapping- ideas - discussions over what we have in the fridge, what we'd need to buy, etc, etc..these can go on all day - oh the anticipation! Over our two years of marriage, E and I have learned to work so well together when we cook-every movement throughout the kitchen is well-choreographed. We've learned each others strengths and weaknesses in the kitchen, and we work with it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">~~~~~</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br />
</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jWHKXFpjeUo/TjGDMlqeg4I/AAAAAAAAAvo/3oyHs8ee_j8/s1600/groceries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jWHKXFpjeUo/TjGDMlqeg4I/AAAAAAAAAvo/3oyHs8ee_j8/s320/groceries.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{thats a LOT of groceries! (via <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ny/kitchen/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-groceries-from-consumerist-056337">apartment therapy</a>)}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>4<b>. </b><i><b>Grocery Shopping.</b></i> What? Is that weird? ( am so food oriented..) Goodness, I LOVE grocery shopping! And I don't just mean picking up a few things, I mean hardcore-groceries for a week- a list a mile long- shopping. I love the feeling of heading to the store with an empty fridge and pantry, and coming home with car full of groceries to fill it up with! Every time I fill my fridge, I remember how blessed we are that we are able to do this every now and then. (we're actually going on a big grocery run this weekend- I've already got the list started!)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>~~~~~</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><br />
</b></i></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bNFMXUjs_zE/TjGFAuI4SlI/AAAAAAAAAvs/cL6I6n3YO5Y/s1600/walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bNFMXUjs_zE/TjGFAuI4SlI/AAAAAAAAAvs/cL6I6n3YO5Y/s320/walk.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{on the trail in our neighborhood- it goes all around town!}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>5<b>. </b><i><b>Daily Walks. </b></i> This is not something we're awesome at, especially when its still 100 degrees at 8:00, but we have been trying to get into the habit of eating dinner AT the table (the couch is our go-to dinner spot..hopefully one day it will be the back yard instead) and then after we clean up from dinner, we leash up the dogs and go for a walk. We did this quite a bit when we lived in the apartments, but now that we have a back yard, we tend to slack off a bit.. but I think it's so important to get the dogs out of their natural habitat once and a while! They love it, and we love getting to know our neighborhood a bit better.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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Stay tuned for Pt 2!Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-13856816621451800312011-07-27T09:20:00.000-05:002011-07-27T09:20:43.359-05:00I would like to have this..pleaseOk, so this may make me the biggest dork EVER. But I would proudly wear <a href="http://shop.npr.org/clothing/i-heart-npr-womens-t-shirt/">this shirt</a> if it was ever mine to wear. Anyone want to buy it for me? anybody? anybody? well, I suppose I will wait for Christmas-time....<br />
<br />
I also wouldn't mind <a href="http://shop.npr.org/npr-gear/npr-get-smarter-t-shirt/">this one</a>. It's just too cute.<br />
<br />
<br />
Gah, <a href="http://kuaf.org/">NPR</a>. What you do to me...<br />
<br />
<br />
In other news..um..OH!<br />
<br />
I rescued a bunny on Friday! He ran into our back yard..which is not a good place for tiny animals when the giant beasts are out. SO i just had to rescue him from the wrath of my Aussies.<br />
<br />
Well, I brought him inside whilst I made sure he was all healthy, and not abandoned ( super healthy! just lost) and then returned him safely to his natural habitat..our front yard. Thankfully, i saw his mother wandering around later that evening, so all is well in the bunny world!<br />
<br />
I didn't get many great pictures of him, but this one definitely shows his teeny-ness!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bt2-Mh3B7Gw/TjAdrIvrazI/AAAAAAAAAvY/N9wsLRVoayw/s1600/Tiny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bt2-Mh3B7Gw/TjAdrIvrazI/AAAAAAAAAvY/N9wsLRVoayw/s320/Tiny.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I wish I could've kept him! but I know that wouldn't have been good for him, or my marriage (E has a thing about rabbits as pets...bad roommate experience..) Instead I will just hope to see him occasionally hop around our neighborhood ( We live in an old neighborhood, which = lots of pretty trees, and LOTS of bunnies!).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a lovely, lovely wednesday!</div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-52347999341436265092011-07-25T11:10:00.000-05:002011-07-25T11:10:19.603-05:00Good Morning!Today is a bit dreary, but I don't mind. it at least LOOKS cooler outside, even if it isn't..<br />
<br />
I just wanted to pop in and share <a href="http://justlittlethings.tumblr.com/">the happiest little blog ever</a> with you. seriously, its lovely.<br />
<br />
I think this one is my favorite- so far.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15d_5k7rowU/Ti2TCif48YI/AAAAAAAAAvI/OyZOWm1O8ss/s1600/littlethings1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15d_5k7rowU/Ti2TCif48YI/AAAAAAAAAvI/OyZOWm1O8ss/s320/littlethings1.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is one of my favorite things ever.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And here are a few little things that made me super happy this weekend:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CrpAJhYp-QE/Ti2UTipCPDI/AAAAAAAAAvM/tPdaMm10d_4/s1600/hammock" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CrpAJhYp-QE/Ti2UTipCPDI/AAAAAAAAAvM/tPdaMm10d_4/s320/hammock" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Watching the sunset from our hammock in the backyard</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDsuUGF0EuY/Ti2Ulsu144I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/EEKk0M30kYQ/s1600/farmers+market" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDsuUGF0EuY/Ti2Ulsu144I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/EEKk0M30kYQ/s320/farmers+market" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Farmers market finds (which immediately became an incredible omelette )</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sde4vX7QJ8g/Ti2VITrTTTI/AAAAAAAAAvU/cIrRcfpEtZM/s1600/curly+hair" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sde4vX7QJ8g/Ti2VITrTTTI/AAAAAAAAAvU/cIrRcfpEtZM/s320/curly+hair" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and finally, the brief occasions when my hair pretends to be curly </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">what are some of the little things that make you super happy?</div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-57056025024986484052011-07-22T10:37:00.002-05:002011-07-22T10:41:43.362-05:00oh, fall...( yes, I know it's July)It's almost August. And that means one thing..its no where NEAR the fall season in Arkansas. It's so. hot. not that I mind the heat... I really don't. I just have a major crush on fall. I have this habit of pulling out ALL of my fall decorations ( yes, I have fall decorations ), the fall candles, the fall clothing( long sleeves and boots are just soo cozy) the fall recipes...what I wouldn't give for a killer chili or stew made by my talented husband right now. Typically, I do this prematurely. What I mean is, as soon as the air has any hint of fall in it, I'm ready for all of the above. And then, in true Arkansas fashion, its 100 degrees the next day. Oops. Did i also mention that fall is GORGEOUS? I don't have to tell you this. Fall colors are my favorite, browns, oranges, deep reds, so happy.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>So, I suppose my point is - fall is my favorite- I miss fall. And the sad thing is, fall weather never lasts around here, its ALMOST as nonexistent as spring (what's that again?)! But does that ruin fall for me? No sir, it does not! Even if the winter weather rears its ugly head much too soon, I will still be enjoying my pumpkin pie candles, pumpkin spice latte's, and my leaf-adorned tablecloth.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Ok, confession time. Last Saturday, I HAD a pumpkin spice latte ( thank you, <a href="https://uslas01sixppx01b.apollogrp.edu:4433/?cfru=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5rZW5uZWR5Y29mZmVlLmNvbS8=">Kennedy Coffee</a>) and was immediately thrust under the spell of fall. I bought a fall scented air freshener (incidentally, the combination of this and linen is a heavenly home scent combo!) and THEn...oh, and then...I went to Hobby lobby. JUST to get pillow inserts. And guess what was gracing the "holiday" section already? Yes. fall decorations! Thanksgiving decor! ( and a bit of christmas too!) Really, Hobby Lobby? Why are you torturing me? Jerk. Just kidding, I love you. Where else can I peruse aisles filled with Christmas Joy in OCTOBER (and I do, trust me).</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>My, what a ramble. </div><div>And now, some photos from probably my favorite Fall ever.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9x-ct3hwmPk/TimY-le_0OI/AAAAAAAAAu4/TSNT0XjwPps/s1600/fall4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9x-ct3hwmPk/TimY-le_0OI/AAAAAAAAAu4/TSNT0XjwPps/s320/fall4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FC3uu3bH1Es/TimY_HyrkRI/AAAAAAAAAu8/trVjQ21Mm44/s1600/Fall3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FC3uu3bH1Es/TimY_HyrkRI/AAAAAAAAAu8/trVjQ21Mm44/s320/Fall3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Svozq4tmqWA/TimY_0Gy2jI/AAAAAAAAAvA/7rbDzv3L8v8/s1600/fall2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Svozq4tmqWA/TimY_0Gy2jI/AAAAAAAAAvA/7rbDzv3L8v8/s320/fall2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-elMo_wV8uxY/TimZAYg-KFI/AAAAAAAAAvE/FfRHWlo11Gg/s1600/fall1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-elMo_wV8uxY/TimZAYg-KFI/AAAAAAAAAvE/FfRHWlo11Gg/s320/fall1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div>Sigh...so enchanting.</div><div><br />
</div><div>what's YOUR favorite season? ( yes, yes i did)</div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-29171010473612972812011-07-14T09:19:00.000-05:002011-07-14T09:19:52.787-05:00date day, date day!I'm so excited about our date day on Saturday, I just have to share our plans with you!<br />
<br />
<br />
I'll start with a little background. We used to live in Fayetteville. We loved it. We thought we'd never leave. Cue rent that was too high, a MUCH better deal in Bentonville, and then a year later finding out "dream home"...in Bentonville. Needless to say, we didn't go back to our beloved Fayetteville.<br />
<br />
So now, Fayetteville is more like a fun vacation day, instead of home. which is almost sad, but it makes it a little more exciting...I suppose<br />
<br />
SO<br />
<br />
here is our date day agenda!<br />
<br />
First! we get to go to <a href="http://hammontreesgourmet.com/">Hammontree's</a> -which totally rocks our socks off..<br />
<br />
Then.....<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1201607/">HARRY POTTER</a> at the <a href="http://www.amctheatres.com/Fiesta/">AMC theatre</a>, where we used to go constantly because of the amazing weekday prices ( plus last time we saw harry potter there, the line was about a fourth of the size as the one at Malco. Ha!)<br />
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After that, a mini grocery trip at <a href="http://www.ozarknaturalfoods.com/">ONF</a>..because..well, why not?<br />
<br />
THEN we get to go see the AMAZING <a href="http://www.eldarjazz.com/">Eldar Djangirov</a> (Who I think looks a little like Shia LaBeouf..) at the <a href="http://www.waltonartscenter.org/">WAC</a>! He's such a cutie! and so ridiculously talented!<br />
<br />
After that, dinner at our favorite <a href="http://tasteofthaifayetteville.com/">Thai place</a> where we had our first date nearly 6 years ago <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">here is my food art from our first date. I know, what the heck was I doing?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e1KR9BzTwG8/Th73hIB1EZI/AAAAAAAAAuk/tLN3DYmWMo4/s1600/DATE+NITE1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e1KR9BzTwG8/Th73hIB1EZI/AAAAAAAAAuk/tLN3DYmWMo4/s1600/DATE+NITE1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sadly, i still do that when we go there...this is from 2008</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oYiNM2VyP9M/Th75A6ddoII/AAAAAAAAAuo/s23bsL5m7H0/s1600/datenite3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oYiNM2VyP9M/Th75A6ddoII/AAAAAAAAAuo/s23bsL5m7H0/s320/datenite3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
Then, drinks at t<a href="http://www.local540.com/marketplace/businesses/brewskis-draft-emporium/">his place</a><br />
<br />
And finally, a <a href="http://bdsband.com/">Benjamin Del Shreve</a> Show at <a href="http://www.georgesmajesticlounge.com/">Georges</a>!!<br />
<br />
<br />
wow. that's a lot of info (and links - you're welcome.) So, i guess if you feel like stalking us on saturday, I just made that totally possible...creepy..<br />
<br />
Anyway...sounds awesome doesn't it? I love date day.....sigh...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">oh..and I wish I was back at this place today.....that'd be nice</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UlLVcrd0Mek/Th755goreqI/AAAAAAAAAus/rA508MrgVcU/s1600/beach+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UlLVcrd0Mek/Th755goreqI/AAAAAAAAAus/rA508MrgVcU/s320/beach+pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-62315561201091232682011-07-13T11:39:00.000-05:002011-07-13T11:39:37.314-05:00Just some thoughts for this lovely, rainy day...Days like today typically bring on the expected sleepy-want to curl up in bed-drink some tea-feeling. They also tend to make me a bit more introspective than usual. Hm..mother nature, your ways are intriguing. Anyway, since the mood struck me (and these days, that is rare) I thought that I would type up a few thoughts to share with the world ( alright, with the very few people who keep track of my blog. thank you, few readers.You are appreciated )<div><br />
</div><div>Over the past couple of years, I have become very good at feeling sorry for myself. Sorry that I haven't found that "dream job". Sorry that I don't make enough money to eat out at fabulous restaurants on a whim, decorate my house with all the lovely things that catch my eye. Sorry that I am 26, and we are yet at "the right point" to start thinking about children. Sorry that It will probably take years to create the backyard oasis that I've been pining over ever since we signed that mortgage agreement. Sorry for so many things that I feel are out of my control. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Well, that's just silly. I know it's silly, you know it's silly. So why bother feeling BOTH sorry and silly? Lame, Cassie. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Due to my abnormally introspective demeanor today, I catch myself trying to feel sorry for all of these things all over again. However, I'm stopping myself with a little list of affirmations. *deep breath* here goes</div><div><br />
</div><div>I DO have a house. No, a home.</div><div>I have a job - no its not my dream job, but it's secure, I am learning from it, and it pays well enough.</div><div>And since we're on the subject of money, I am SO thankful for what little money we do earn. It's not excessive, an sometimes it doesn't feel like enough, but it is enough. For goodness sakes I'm only 26.</div><div>I have dreams, aspirations, goals. Enough said.</div><div>I have multiple artistic outlets that make me feel creative, and I love that.</div><div>Did I mention that I have a FANTASTIC, lovely, wonderful, handsome, sweet, and caring husband that will do anything for me, an teaches me daily the art of patience and acceptance? I do. and I love him.</div><div>I already have children. They're furry, and they like to chase birds. but they are my babies and I don't know what I would do without them.</div><div>I have a RIDICULOUSLY amazing family with tons of moms, dads, grandparents, sisters, and brothers, that bring so much joy into my life. I am blessed with such an amazing family! ( what I am trying to say is that my family rocks, and I TOTALLY lucked out with E's family!)</div><div>Most importantly I have faith. I have faith that God will always provide, that I can rely on Him to guide me, even though I can be SO stubborn. And for this reason, I love my life, I love what has been provided for me, and am so excited for what the future holds</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>THERE! I feel much better! don't you? Well, maybe if you make your own affirmation list, this dreary rainy day will brighten a bit. And if its not rainy where you are, well..neat. it's still a great idea:)</div><div><br />
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</div><div>On another note, I am SUPER excited about our date day this Saturday! But...that's another show!</div><div><br />
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</div><div>I leave you with some pics ( because who wants to read a blog post with no eye candy? )</div><div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">we'll start with a few pictures from a lovely vineyard lunch in Napa ( that toally made me want to pack up, move to Cali, and start a vineyard!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OS7AFyCMzBo/Th3Gg5Yl82I/AAAAAAAAAtI/tW_s6PmXCss/s1600/napa1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OS7AFyCMzBo/Th3Gg5Yl82I/AAAAAAAAAtI/tW_s6PmXCss/s320/napa1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BjovY0-6ZBk/Th3GrQbnNBI/AAAAAAAAAtM/j7Cx9_PCXno/s1600/napa2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BjovY0-6ZBk/Th3GrQbnNBI/AAAAAAAAAtM/j7Cx9_PCXno/s320/napa2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A sweet moment I was lucky enough to witness at our local farmers market. The little boy was so intrigued by the sax player, he walked right up to him. The Sax player obliged by playing a fun little song for the sweet boy. Made my day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vqeqvjzLk9Q/Th3HJ0nlm4I/AAAAAAAAAtQ/mD36C7C4ZJ4/s1600/farmers+market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vqeqvjzLk9Q/Th3HJ0nlm4I/AAAAAAAAAtQ/mD36C7C4ZJ4/s320/farmers+market.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My little bug bein' lazy...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-LNsAtVEaw/Th3Irm0gqvI/AAAAAAAAAtU/qxUoES4v5Ro/s1600/lazy+pup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-LNsAtVEaw/Th3Irm0gqvI/AAAAAAAAAtU/qxUoES4v5Ro/s320/lazy+pup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A big ol' bunny hoppin through our front yard. He was kid enough to pose for me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nDZTTsGuUhY/Th3JCdqT-nI/AAAAAAAAAtY/3F94k-LvhxA/s1600/bunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nDZTTsGuUhY/Th3JCdqT-nI/AAAAAAAAAtY/3F94k-LvhxA/s320/bunny.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our wall of shelves are finally up in the bedroom!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XUIWVZRza3I/Th3JOCJQQ1I/AAAAAAAAAtc/gjHrTeARrLc/s1600/shelves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XUIWVZRza3I/Th3JOCJQQ1I/AAAAAAAAAtc/gjHrTeARrLc/s320/shelves.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My new little friend - found at a local antique store. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sXLIMWonejg/Th3JWRJRwUI/AAAAAAAAAtg/IPVZnqQahe0/s1600/owl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sXLIMWonejg/Th3JWRJRwUI/AAAAAAAAAtg/IPVZnqQahe0/s320/owl.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
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</div><div>Have a happy Wednesday!</div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-39394429639548245932011-05-20T09:55:00.000-05:002011-05-20T09:55:48.962-05:00The best Pizza on earth!Ok. I can't really say that with authority. But E and I have eaten our fair share of pizza in NWA, and this. is. it.<div><br />
</div><div>You are probably thinking " what the HECK are you talkin' about??"</div><div><br />
</div><div>I'm talking about <a href="http://www.therailpizza.com/">this</a>.</div><div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u><b>SO TRUE</b></u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4lwjx5yNzU/TdZ_5bvlFpI/AAAAAAAAAsw/J-w2cHmEPxw/s1600/awesome+pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4lwjx5yNzU/TdZ_5bvlFpI/AAAAAAAAAsw/J-w2cHmEPxw/s320/awesome+pizza.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
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</div><div>We discovered The Rail a few months ago - shortly after it opened. Its quirky, fun, the people who work/run the place are amazingly awesome, and the pizza is just. perfect. They even give you honey on the tables for the crust- FREE dessert anyone??</div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Our booth - appropriately called "table H" ...:) </span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EVIvkKVp7Bk/TdaAsJs6MxI/AAAAAAAAAs0/N8ZI2y6xnsw/s1600/H.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EVIvkKVp7Bk/TdaAsJs6MxI/AAAAAAAAAs0/N8ZI2y6xnsw/s320/H.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>SO last night after finding a second dead bird in our back yard (more on that later...so sad) we decided we needed to get out of the house, and have an impromptu date night. Such a good idea! But, when is date night a bad idea?</div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">{Also, the gal that's been our waitress EVERY TIME (I think she spots us and chooses our table- we're that cool) actually remembered us last night even though we hadn't been there in over a month. Also she looks exactly like Gwenyth Paltrow. No kidding.}</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><b>THis is the Margherita</b></span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><i>olive oil, basil, tomato,WHOLE CLOVES OF ROASTED GARLIC, fresh mozzarella . Perfection.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rUN8X9YvM4I/TdZ024UUyFI/AAAAAAAAAsg/-j7v7JbhGBs/s1600/pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rUN8X9YvM4I/TdZ024UUyFI/AAAAAAAAAsg/-j7v7JbhGBs/s320/pizza.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-size: 11px;"><b><br />
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</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">E enjoying {conquering?} the Wedge salad. We always order this. And it always reminds us of </span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.hulu.com/watch/217330/modern-family-regrets-only">Modern Family</a>. </span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">"Are you kidding me??</span></i>"</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z345sZYencE/TdZ5bZTjkrI/AAAAAAAAAsk/OeChIRKokUg/s1600/are+you+kidding+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z345sZYencE/TdZ5bZTjkrI/AAAAAAAAAsk/OeChIRKokUg/s320/are+you+kidding+me.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The super fun outdoor patio (sadly E's allergies + about 5 million people prevented us from enjoying it last night)</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cDRZFhrb3yU/TdZ5d6oDdWI/AAAAAAAAAso/VFWWTQM933Y/s1600/patio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cDRZFhrb3yU/TdZ5d6oDdWI/AAAAAAAAAso/VFWWTQM933Y/s320/patio.jpg" width="319" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Beautiful downtown Rogers. Perfect end to our impromptu date night. There were even musicians playing in the pavilion. *happy sigh*</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fd0EvTRd-_M/TdZ5eggBdxI/AAAAAAAAAss/D-yy5kHmK08/s1600/date+walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fd0EvTRd-_M/TdZ5eggBdxI/AAAAAAAAAss/D-yy5kHmK08/s320/date+walk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ahh, date night's. they're my favorite.</span></div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-59784797163109719782011-05-19T10:33:00.000-05:002011-05-19T10:33:07.069-05:00Well, hello there.Hi.<br />
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I have officially abandoned my little blog. Why? I have no idea. Perhaps it has to do with the fact that when I think to myself ' I should blog about this' I am no where near a computer, thus no blogging occurs and those thoughts and ideas..drift away. Another could be that I am easily discouraged with myself, and often think. "whats the point, no one will want to read about this" But I have decided to give it another go - if only for my own benefit. I love reading back through my blog posts and reading about past days and adventures that I've had, or reading a "rant" and thinking " wow , I'm so silly". It's fantastic perspective. Thus, my presence here. now. Well, here we go again.<br />
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I own a house. WOAH. what? It's true! late last month we took the big jump into adulthood and tied ourselves down to a lovely little house in a sweet neighborhood. We can access the city trails from our neighborhood, we have 6 trees ( yay, trees!) tons of birdies, and a huge back yard for the pups to play in. I should also mention that we are about a minute and a half away from a sonic. I haven't decided if this is a good thing or a bad. My bank account says bad. I've often thought of getting a part time job there, simply to support my addiction. Darn you Sonic...<br />
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Soon (as soon as we hook up our desktop so that i can upload pictures from good ol' Olly) I will update pictures of our little home, and share a bit of what we have done to it so far (mostly paint -LOTS of paint) and a few plans..what we will do next (there are MANY things we would like to do) It will be fun, just wait!<br />
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Here is a quick glimpse of it via iphone loveliness.<br />
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This is actually a little poscard that our bank gave us so that we can send them to loved ones, letting them know that we have moved! How sweet is that? terrible picture though..sorry<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cd5w2vo1Y20/TdUzbkv2n5I/AAAAAAAAAr0/mxETHMzcbOA/s1600/new+home+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cd5w2vo1Y20/TdUzbkv2n5I/AAAAAAAAAr0/mxETHMzcbOA/s320/new+home+.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Lets move on to a little before and after<br />
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This is the master bedroom pre- Holder home (thats eggplant...the other two walls are an odd camel color..the room was SO dark it was depressing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--0IcwtU8HcY/TdUz-GJdKjI/AAAAAAAAAr4/XYC97Cu50wk/s1600/purple+bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--0IcwtU8HcY/TdUz-GJdKjI/AAAAAAAAAr4/XYC97Cu50wk/s320/purple+bedroom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o0hmfVjx2KA/TdU0xamHVOI/AAAAAAAAAr8/aQh19PKi7aU/s1600/grey+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o0hmfVjx2KA/TdU0xamHVOI/AAAAAAAAAr8/aQh19PKi7aU/s320/grey+room.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>and here is an absolutely horrible picture of the color that we painted it. It's called "Barely jade" you can't tell but its a gorgeous grey/blue depending on the lighting in the room ( which is so lovely in the evenings )<br />
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a glimpse of our BEAUTIFUL new bed ....again...such a terrible picture<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eLutfvxSr4A/TdU1DI5-94I/AAAAAAAAAsA/CszMOeAtLlY/s1600/bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eLutfvxSr4A/TdU1DI5-94I/AAAAAAAAAsA/CszMOeAtLlY/s320/bed.jpg" width="237" /></a></div>the master is one of my fa vorite rooms so far..and i will {hopefully} share more pictures very soon<br />
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and here is one of my favorite things in our bedroom. I had this custom made by the lovely, lovely Sara from <a href="http://avintageposter.com/">A Vintage Poster!</a> It makes me smile every time i see it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WDMAE3ydadw/TdU2fuapzZI/AAAAAAAAAsE/eu6XPPk9aQA/s1600/custom+print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WDMAE3ydadw/TdU2fuapzZI/AAAAAAAAAsE/eu6XPPk9aQA/s320/custom+print.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is hanging above our bed and it looks perfect there. LOVE!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just a few more bad quality pics ...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sunroom: The sunroom is amazing! it is an add-on, right off the kitchen, living room area- complete with gorgeous french doors! This room was a little boys bedroom. the walls were originally a very pale yellow, and very dirty...we painted it a super bright sunshiney- yellow and its such a happy room! sort of looks like a reception is about to happen in there in this pic..hmm)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zcpK--sKz5w/TdU2-md1CPI/AAAAAAAAAsI/Vbti7d2Z4CU/s1600/sunroom1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zcpK--sKz5w/TdU2-md1CPI/AAAAAAAAAsI/Vbti7d2Z4CU/s320/sunroom1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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and before i get too carried away, I will leave you with probably my favorite part of the house - the back yard! Don't worry, we mowed it recently..<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jc5M2H7pu2Y/TdU4BpWJxSI/AAAAAAAAAsM/qKxLzXC7SLA/s1600/backyard3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jc5M2H7pu2Y/TdU4BpWJxSI/AAAAAAAAAsM/qKxLzXC7SLA/s320/backyard3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ed10MZ6w1zo/TdU4CEkOCPI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/1koJtryjH7o/s1600/backyrd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ed10MZ6w1zo/TdU4CEkOCPI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/1koJtryjH7o/s320/backyrd.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lq0i0AsuoHQ/TdU4Cv6r-oI/AAAAAAAAAsU/X7i8tWT2PHg/s1600/climbing+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lq0i0AsuoHQ/TdU4Cv6r-oI/AAAAAAAAAsU/X7i8tWT2PHg/s320/climbing+tree.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><br />
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have a lovely day! I will {hopefully} be back soon!Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-65994059495627725722011-01-05T17:21:00.000-06:002011-01-05T17:21:21.536-06:00Hey, big tuna!no... no this tuna<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TSTy0pvJE7I/AAAAAAAAAro/QdFmx0QX-QI/s1600/big+tuna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TSTy0pvJE7I/AAAAAAAAAro/QdFmx0QX-QI/s1600/big+tuna.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Last nights menu, as promised, included tuna, roasted potatoes, salad, and cilantro sauce on EVERYTHING! No joke, this is my favorite sauce ever. Sadly, i didn't come up with it - the recipe originates from <a href="http://www.loveandoliveoil.com/2009/04/pan-seared-flat-iron-steak-with-spicy-cilantro-sauce.html">this</a> lovely blog. It is one of my absolute FAVORITE food blogs. ever. Their recipes are super original, and always amazing. Anyway, this sauce made it's first appearance in our not too long after they posted it...and it keeps reappearing! We even worked it into our valentines day dinner this year. I am convinced that i goes with EVERYTHING. Maybe not ice cream...then again...hmm<br />
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Alright well lets get to it...<br />
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<u><b>Holder Dinner January 4, 2011!</b></u><br />
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Roasted Yellow Potatoes with Seared Ahi Tuna<br />
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<b>Roasted potatoes</b><br />
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this recipe is probably a random mixture of other recipes i've either looked up or made up..but it's super simple, yo!<br />
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4-5 Yukon potatoes, cut in 1/4ths<br />
around 1/2 cup EV olive oil<br />
3 cloves garlic, minced<br />
3-ish tbspn rosemary leaves, roughly chopped<br />
2 tsp smoked paprika<br />
salt and pepper<br />
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all I did was throw the potatoes in a bowl with all that good stuff to make sure its coated really well, and then put it in a 400 degree oven for about 45 minutes and, voila! roasted potatoes. (by the way, the cilantro sauce is amazing on the potatoes...:) )<br />
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Seared Ahi tuna<br />
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Now, I have to confess, I did not cook these. My amazing husband did, as he is much more skilled in the tuna searing area. But I can tell you that we hesitantly bought a bag of individually wrapped FROZEN ahi tuna steaks and they were surprisingly great! These don't even need a "recipe" really...he just heated some vegitable oil (I would have gone for butter..but we're trying to be healthy...sigh) in our cast iron on medium high, seasoned the steaks with salt and pepper, and seared them for about 1-2 minutes on each side. Then, of course, they were topped with cilantro sauce. My gosh, I'm not kidding when I tell you that it's amazing. Have I mentioned that already? my bad...<br />
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Here's an absolutely horrible picture of our dinner yes. I was too lazy to get out the real camera...or clear off the cutting board before I took the picture...you can't tell, but the sauce ended up on the salad as well. I couldn't help it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TST8mF3ZmRI/AAAAAAAAArs/Spia4ZS6rYE/s1600/166586_741951685917_20615874_40342845_5624252_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TST8mF3ZmRI/AAAAAAAAArs/Spia4ZS6rYE/s320/166586_741951685917_20615874_40342845_5624252_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Happy Wednesday!Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-18806770767606934892011-01-04T10:05:00.000-06:002011-01-04T10:05:07.024-06:00Resolution Revolution<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TSNEojPekhI/AAAAAAAAArg/D_ETF1XWJd4/s1600/167747_741503853377_20615874_40331093_1648883_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TSNEojPekhI/AAAAAAAAArg/D_ETF1XWJd4/s320/167747_741503853377_20615874_40331093_1648883_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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Hello, 2011! It's been awhile ( I think I begin all of my posts this way now..)<br />
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this morning, as I was typing out my ideas for dinner in an email to my dear husband, i had a revolution. why don't I keep track of what I make for dinner? I mean..It usually isn't anything spectacular, but sometimes I do surprise myself.<br />
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There are occasions where I actually crack open a cookbook or search for a recipe online..I must admit..but usually, dinner is my own creation, or a collaborative effort between me and the husband. So often as we are enjoying our creations, we say "we have to try this again!" and then, of course, it never happens. why? because other than those sketchy emails we send back and forth throughout the day, those dinner ideas are lost in space. yes, I just said that.<br />
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<br />
So. This is the beginning of my new years resolution revolution (it's just fun to type...sorry) Starting with last nights dinner, which...sadly, wasn't great- but it didn't suck either! yes!!<br />
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<u><b>Holder Dinner January 3, 2011</b></u><br />
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<u><b>Mixed green salad with "grilled' Chicken and zucchini *</b></u><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>- I wasn't SUPER happy with this, just because of the mix of the zucchini in the salad. it was a bit..too different. The zucchini tasted great! but i Think it would have been better on the side, not on the salad. other than that, it was a fairly fun way to eat salad- which we're trying to do most every night now.</i> </div><br />
<ul><li>1 chicken breast, cut into bite size pieces</li>
<li>1/2 zuchinni, cut longways into matchsticks</li>
<li>mixed greens, or any type of lettuce (next time i think i'll just try spinach)</li>
<li>Toasted almonds</li>
<li>Romano Cheese</li>
<li>Olive Oil (for dressing)</li>
<li>parsley garlic butter (2 tbsp butter, handful of finely chopped parsley, 2 cloves garlic, minced)</li>
</ul><br />
-melt the butter in the microwave for 15 seconds, or until it's soft. mix in parsley and garlic. add cut up chicken and "marinate" for a few minutes so that the chicken can soak up..all that good stuff<br />
<br />
-to cook the chicken (and zucchini), I used a nonstick grill pan (thanks Mammaw!) really, just for fun... but it worked pretty well I think! <br />
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-Then....add the chicken and zucchini and chicken to the lettuce, top with almonds, Romano cheese, and olive oil.<br />
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...that's it!<br />
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<u><b>Parmesean Garlic Grits( fine..polenta) </b></u>***<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>these were AMAZING! Definitely on our "do it again" list. I had been looking at various grits..polenta recipes throughout the day, and finally decided to just wing it. Its pretty simple, but I was proud of myself.</i></div><br />
<ul><li>2 cups chicken broth</li>
<li>6 tbsp quick grits</li>
<li>3 cloves garlic, minced</li>
<li>1/2 cup grated Parmesan</li>
<li>1/4-ish cup parsley</li>
<li>3 tbsp butter </li>
</ul>-bring chicken broth to a boil<br />
-quickly stir in grits, and lower heat to med/low-<br />
-add garlic and cover - cook for 5-6 minutes <br />
-add butter -after butter is melted, stir in Parmesan and parsley<br />
-season w/ salt and pepper<br />
<b>- eat!</b> <br />
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<br />
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So what's on the menu tonight? well..so far, Ahi tuna with cilantro lime sauce, roasted yellow potatoes and salad. we'll see how it goes-the sauce will probably end up on the potatoes too....also possibly the salad..<br />
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Happy New Year!!<br />
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..and Merry (late) Christmas! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TSNFATVG3fI/AAAAAAAAArk/KrnGnFBi_uM/s1600/christmas+pups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TSNFATVG3fI/AAAAAAAAArk/KrnGnFBi_uM/s320/christmas+pups.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">[ I was attempting to take a photo for a Christmas card..clearly it didn't work out, but it's still cute ;)]</div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-75376290794266617892010-10-11T20:58:00.001-05:002011-01-04T10:06:17.593-06:00Finally fall..Fall is such an amazing, spiritual season - it normally is to me anyway. Thus far, fall has proven to be a bit moody, but nonetheless beautiful and rejuvenating. Lately I have been struggling with the art of relaxing, and just ..letting things go- letting things happen as they happen, and taking each trial as a battle to overcome. I think I will get there..but it's a slow process<br />
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Thats all I have for now- It's about bed time for this bonzo-gal. Before I go, however, I would like to share a quick glimpse into my world as of late..lovely fall colors!<br />
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hopefully it won't be another month until I am back again!! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO9d10DbDI/AAAAAAAAAq8/4OjO1RaTiuo/s1600/pink+shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO9d10DbDI/AAAAAAAAAq8/4OjO1RaTiuo/s320/pink+shoes.jpg" width="203" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO99smo_zI/AAAAAAAAArA/EwwjcZ_lnRM/s1600/sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO99smo_zI/AAAAAAAAArA/EwwjcZ_lnRM/s320/sunset.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO-WLhhuvI/AAAAAAAAArE/eoFrnZvGrZE/s1600/funny+face.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO-WLhhuvI/AAAAAAAAArE/eoFrnZvGrZE/s320/funny+face.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO-zs6sONI/AAAAAAAAArI/KNRizYUtWJk/s1600/sunrise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO-zs6sONI/AAAAAAAAArI/KNRizYUtWJk/s320/sunrise.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO_L9S_ttI/AAAAAAAAArM/hXkFqOqxBqU/s1600/school+squared.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO_L9S_ttI/AAAAAAAAArM/hXkFqOqxBqU/s320/school+squared.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO_h0opqGI/AAAAAAAAArQ/ai1CTssTOG4/s1600/kerri+and+dad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO_h0opqGI/AAAAAAAAArQ/ai1CTssTOG4/s320/kerri+and+dad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO_2c7TetI/AAAAAAAAArU/eM5fW7DF7WM/s1600/dave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLO_2c7TetI/AAAAAAAAArU/eM5fW7DF7WM/s320/dave.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLPAWVCPZKI/AAAAAAAAArY/md15CfVbHjo/s1600/leaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TLPAWVCPZKI/AAAAAAAAArY/md15CfVbHjo/s320/leaf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-65500430173567497392010-08-29T12:33:00.000-05:002010-08-29T12:33:50.807-05:00Wow. its been a while..again.It seems as though every other post for the last few months has started similarly.. What can I say? Life is busy? eh.. I suppose. I've been lazy? probably more so. I think really its just been a long stretch of bloggers block. nothing exciting to share..nothing interesting to say. But blogging is such good therapy! Maybe I will try harder.<br />
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This week has been absolutely beautiful- finally out of the 100's - the windows are wide open on this lovely Sunday morning, and the curtains are blowing in the breeze. Perfection. It feels like fall- finally..fall. <br />
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I am probably jumping the gun a bit, considering next week will be in the lower 90's. I don't care. My pumpkin spice and apple cider candles are out, I've switched out a few of my more summer-esque decor with a bit of burnt orange and dark greens..and I"m contemplating putting away the shorts and tank tops. I should probably wait..<br />
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We did a bit of painting this weekend..and I must say I am happy with the results. Quite a while ago, I blogged about the two ugly end tables we purchased at walmart..target..something of that nature- and what in the world could we do with them! well ...earlier this year we did something. we bought a lovely yellow paint with every intention of painting those suckers. ...5 or 6 months later I am happy ( and a bit embarrassed) to say that we finally got around to that! the weather was right, the wind wasn't too strong, and we needed to be productive! <br />
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Here are a few pics- they look super blurry for some reason..not enough light i guess..?<br />
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1st end table by the door with our super awesome vintage lamp (one of my favorite antique store finds!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp29A2FDVI/AAAAAAAAAqM/lWL9Vt7pe6k/s1600/endtable1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp29A2FDVI/AAAAAAAAAqM/lWL9Vt7pe6k/s400/endtable1.jpg" width="203" /></a></div><br />
Here is the other end table- just a closeup. Yes. that is a Star Wars record in the background... " The story of Star Wars" to be exact..one of my husbands prized possessions..<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp3p0YjU1I/AAAAAAAAAqU/l-JIYqoH6mM/s1600/end+table+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp3p0YjU1I/AAAAAAAAAqU/l-JIYqoH6mM/s320/end+table+closeup.jpg" width="294" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I think I am pretty darn happy with the way the color came out. that doesn't meant it will stay that color forever ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">on my next post ( you know, in a few months..) I will FINALLY post pictures of our anniversary trip to colorado! yeah. that was in june ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">here is a preview:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp8U82SvuI/AAAAAAAAAqc/yX0HsRxbGhg/s1600/C+Hiking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp8U82SvuI/AAAAAAAAAqc/yX0HsRxbGhg/s400/C+Hiking.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp-d7Y9KkI/AAAAAAAAAqs/8aJqBW_OAo8/s1600/view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp-d7Y9KkI/AAAAAAAAAqs/8aJqBW_OAo8/s320/view.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp_tNwcvII/AAAAAAAAAq0/sgBDqY4WPcI/s1600/eandchiking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp_tNwcvII/AAAAAAAAAq0/sgBDqY4WPcI/s320/eandchiking.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp9C695lXI/AAAAAAAAAqk/Bml5zFRAsdA/s1600/E+Hiking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp9C695lXI/AAAAAAAAAqk/Bml5zFRAsdA/s320/E+Hiking.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/THp29A2FDVI/AAAAAAAAAqM/lWL9Vt7pe6k/s1600/endtable1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-75299990632948587162010-07-14T09:06:00.000-05:002010-07-14T09:06:46.409-05:00Morning inspiration<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Every so often I stumble across a blog that just really lifts my spirits..well, <a href="http://www.thewayofthehappywoman.com/">this</a> is one of them! I have been subscribed to her blog for a while, but her last post was so incredibly Inspiring that i just had to share! It will brighten your day. Promise. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Please visit : <a href="http://www.thewayofthehappywoman.com/">http://www.thewayofthehappywoman.com/</a> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><br />
have a lovely day!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TD3EKHUA41I/AAAAAAAAAp8/nACwKjspDyk/s1600/photo%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TD3EKHUA41I/AAAAAAAAAp8/nACwKjspDyk/s320/photo%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">photo taken by me with my trusty Iphone:)</div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-16393705258398372652010-06-28T10:07:00.000-05:002010-06-28T10:07:20.118-05:00Oh Dear, it's been a while. Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TCi6SvDZz3I/AAAAAAAAAp0/xCb2J4ipGi0/s1600/meadow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="387" ru="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/TCi6SvDZz3I/AAAAAAAAAp0/xCb2J4ipGi0/s400/meadow.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(polaroid of a meadow we stumbled across at a local garden this weekend while out with family-isnt it lovely?)</div><br />
Well, it's definitely summer! My how the definitition of summer changes when you're a "grown-up"! Summer used to mean freedom, fun, sleeping late, staying up late, moonlit walks to the park, popsicles..slip-n-slides!! ah.. I do miss the slip-n-slides.<br />
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Now summer means...lots to do! I think each weekend in July is "booked!" and each weekday is filled with work...but you know, summer is still fun around here! All those booked weekends are filled with fun, friends, and wonderful family. As adults I feel like it's easy to pass off summer as just another season, but if we try super hard to get in touch with our kid side, every friday afternoon could feel like the last day of school! and every summer night can be treated with the same respect a 10 year old would treat it. bring on the popsicles, late night walks, swimming, bike rides, and grill-outs! its ok that i have to get up at 7 the next day :) Who knows, I may even go out and buy a slip-n-slides..now where to put it at our apartment..hmm<br />
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another post coming soon....on redecorating...hopefully I actually follow through!!<br />
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have a BEAUTIFUL Monday!Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-56393270413787185382010-05-17T19:16:00.000-05:002010-05-17T19:16:12.689-05:00Puppy Face!Monday is officially "puppy face" day! and in honor of our first puppy face day, here a few super-sweet ..puppy faces!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S_Hbx8b7xQI/AAAAAAAAApU/7bYeZzDOM4o/s1600/henry1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S_Hbx8b7xQI/AAAAAAAAApU/7bYeZzDOM4o/s320/henry1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S_Hb7X3fTCI/AAAAAAAAApc/v8Vl0V_Xkqw/s320/puppy+face2.jpg" /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S_Hb_2ciXNI/AAAAAAAAApk/1u7-noJqf_A/s1600/rockostare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S_Hb_2ciXNI/AAAAAAAAApk/1u7-noJqf_A/s320/rockostare.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S_HcLS87byI/AAAAAAAAAps/6MT9p1c-rzA/s1600/rockostare2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S_HcLS87byI/AAAAAAAAAps/6MT9p1c-rzA/s320/rockostare2.jpg" /></a></div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-44993099083569122902010-05-13T17:12:00.000-05:002010-05-13T17:12:25.457-05:00Pretty bird<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I don't know what sparked it, but I developed an immense adoration for birds. I have a growing collection of bird necklaces, and, you may have noticed in my previous post of my apartment, they are pretty much everywhere ( my younger sister counted over 40 birds in our apartment once last year. I can assure you..the number has grown since!) </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Yes, I mostly mean decorations involving birds, but I really do adore the little creatures in general..its so funny to think that they're always around us, sitting outside our window, in the trees, hanging out by restaurant patios..no one really seems to notice their delicate little bodies hopping around, bobbing their head back and forth..they're just so sweet looking! Maybe I'm crazy for loving them so..but to me they're a symbol of innocence and..well, peace. I'm sure its just me..</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, I was thinking of what I wanted to post next and i decided that i wanted to share some of my favorite bird art- mostly found on etsy</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">so here are a couple of favorites:</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.60146776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.60146776.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I am so sad that this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/21895868/flighty-bird-necklace">sweet little necklace</a> has been sold! but it's still lovely lo look at!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.80141931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.80141931.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">This <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=17713630">adorable print </a>is hanging in my dining room!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.144133212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.144133212.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">and these<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/46855228/aged-brass-bluebird-charms?ref=v1_other_2"> brass bluebird</a> charms are next on my to-buy list!!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">this may become a habit-more birds to come!!</span></i></div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-54848511010160706692010-05-11T23:26:00.004-05:002010-05-13T12:28:49.366-05:00Our Little Home<div style="text-align: center;">Good evening friends! it is definitely past my bedtime, but I thought that since I was up, I would share with you some pictures of our little home. It is, infact, an apartment (on the 3rd floor, no less!) but nonethless it is our HOME and we love it- love in it, and fill it with lots of happiness and quite often at night, the smell of really darn good food:) Plus we have a fantastic view of an open field with a single barn..and the sun always sets over that barn. what more could we ask for??</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">so here we go!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>our living room:</b></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-ooFvqg5YI/AAAAAAAAAnE/B9wGCR8sR2Q/s1600/fireplace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-ooFvqg5YI/AAAAAAAAAnE/B9wGCR8sR2Q/s320/fireplace.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-onnTHqRbI/AAAAAAAAAm0/4_fyuR3XI2o/s1600/living+room1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-onnTHqRbI/AAAAAAAAAm0/4_fyuR3XI2o/s320/living+room1.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-onzgsqzOI/AAAAAAAAAm8/CmozKnoogeU/s1600/frame+wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-onzgsqzOI/AAAAAAAAAm8/CmozKnoogeU/s320/frame+wall.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-ooehsCknI/AAAAAAAAAnM/D_bhtR8uYII/s1600/the+birds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-ooehsCknI/AAAAAAAAAnM/D_bhtR8uYII/s320/the+birds.jpg" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> (our little friends in the window-they're actually from our wedding! my amazing mom made them! I know, totally tacky to have them up there with tape. but I promise, you can't see it ! and im too lazy to figure out another way....any ideas??)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Dining room:</b></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-opNdxQ0ZI/AAAAAAAAAnk/Ph-pKTZz0b4/s1600/side++view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-opNdxQ0ZI/AAAAAAAAAnk/Ph-pKTZz0b4/s320/side++view.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-opEGvwdLI/AAAAAAAAAnc/1vGZYD8Kyls/s1600/dining+room+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-opEGvwdLI/AAAAAAAAAnc/1vGZYD8Kyls/s320/dining+room+2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-oo8a9V86I/AAAAAAAAAnU/F08ldnjGKqw/s1600/dining+room+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-oo8a9V86I/AAAAAAAAAnU/F08ldnjGKqw/s320/dining+room+1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<b><i>(pieces of)the office -AKA my "craft room"/my ongoing project/my ongoing headache(!) a sweet gift from my amazing husband!:</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-oql4Tj1OI/AAAAAAAAAoE/w8MumuwHoKg/s320/offic+3.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>these things don't look too pretty, but they mean a WHOLE lot to me..:)</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-oqCN7SA9I/AAAAAAAAAn8/qmuhnEsvNYY/s1600/office+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-oqCN7SA9I/AAAAAAAAAn8/qmuhnEsvNYY/s320/office+2.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-opzmdPYjI/AAAAAAAAAn0/Jun0e8Lfi-8/s1600/office+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-opzmdPYjI/AAAAAAAAAn0/Jun0e8Lfi-8/s320/office+1.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-opp8zl5tI/AAAAAAAAAns/MoD49dYlZUU/s1600/office+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-opp8zl5tI/AAAAAAAAAns/MoD49dYlZUU/s320/office+4.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<i><b>Bedroom:</b></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-orZgMo7dI/AAAAAAAAAoU/pd_B-Xu9waY/s1600/bedroom2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-orZgMo7dI/AAAAAAAAAoU/pd_B-Xu9waY/s320/bedroom2.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-oriVyEh-I/AAAAAAAAAoc/_B8eP1DyyaI/s1600/bedroom+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-oriVyEh-I/AAAAAAAAAoc/_B8eP1DyyaI/s320/bedroom+3.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-or42oOTfI/AAAAAAAAAok/0tXM70Prxz0/s1600/bedroom+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-or42oOTfI/AAAAAAAAAok/0tXM70Prxz0/s320/bedroom+4.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-orPdE-ifI/AAAAAAAAAoM/nwqxMgWnkqs/s1600/bedroom1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-orPdE-ifI/AAAAAAAAAoM/nwqxMgWnkqs/s320/bedroom1.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-or42oOTfI/AAAAAAAAAok/0tXM70Prxz0/s1600/bedroom+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-osBbn7InI/AAAAAAAAAos/g2Ta9be-7n0/s1600/nightstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-osBbn7InI/AAAAAAAAAos/g2Ta9be-7n0/s320/nightstand.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">and a few more extras..</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-osULfNgwI/AAAAAAAAAo0/_89zoXfr9io/s1600/fav+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-osULfNgwI/AAAAAAAAAo0/_89zoXfr9io/s320/fav+pic.jpg" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is probably our favorite print in the apartment-a Christmas present from my lovely sister-in -law!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-osknbMJHI/AAAAAAAAAo8/H9_4atzTnCo/s320/flowers.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">our forget-me-not's -these were in my wedding bouquet! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-osthklYUI/AAAAAAAAApE/SZGMePOwI4w/s320/hydrangia.jpg" /><br />
our poor hydrangia...no blooms yet, but we're hopeful!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">welp, that about does it! Hope you enjoy..i think its definitely bed time now!</div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-89156224059760499512010-05-11T11:05:00.001-05:002010-05-11T11:09:05.914-05:00Photo Clean-upI am <i>trying</i> to clean up the card on my poor Olly- she's about to bust with photos!! Here are a few- im not super SUPER proud of them, but they're aight..hope you enjoy?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-l_vurUyjI/AAAAAAAAAlk/y41P7QOdRHI/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-l_vurUyjI/AAAAAAAAAlk/y41P7QOdRHI/s400/2.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-l_xpwwgKI/AAAAAAAAAls/9bT6-GhE9Y8/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-l_xpwwgKI/AAAAAAAAAls/9bT6-GhE9Y8/s400/3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-l_uFkGFoI/AAAAAAAAAlc/Qmz27qSR_Qw/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-l_uFkGFoI/AAAAAAAAAlc/Qmz27qSR_Qw/s400/1.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-l_0TTy5ZI/AAAAAAAAAl8/7r3m7Q_1tm0/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-l_0TTy5ZI/AAAAAAAAAl8/7r3m7Q_1tm0/s400/5.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">this last one is a SUPER mini preview of our new home-I will have a full tour up very soon!!<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-l_1omxUbI/AAAAAAAAAmE/_J7whjtZWlY/s320/6.JPG" /></div>Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-180486594117749692.post-2699033000156934252010-05-10T10:16:00.005-05:002010-05-10T15:08:00.111-05:00Rainy Days and Mondays..Really aren't that bad. I wish someone had told Karen Carpenter this.<br />
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(This is here for no other reason other than ..well..I adore this picture. I can't figure out why but I really do.) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-g9WEtRpjI/AAAAAAAAAks/2fVfkAVLjyI/s1600/KATEMOSSreadingintub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-g9WEtRpjI/AAAAAAAAAks/2fVfkAVLjyI/s320/KATEMOSSreadingintub.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Today is a very sleepy day- not to say that I am sleeping much today, I was up just as always, walking the dog half a sleep, getting ready for my work- day ( also half a sleep at this point) yogurt and coffee..maybe that will wake me up?<br />
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Well I'm about done with my coffee ( 2 and 1/2 hours later..) and I am still seconds away from a sweet sweet rainy day nap.<br />
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Sadly I am at work :)<br />
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but it is a lovely day, the lights seem dimmer, the world outside seems much calmer...and every so often something or other in this large room makes a slight whistling noise. I am enjoying this sleepy day, even though I am not at home relaxing. I am, in fact at work- listening to lovely music and reading even lovelier blogs...drinking 2 hour old coffee.. I think I will move to green tea next.<br />
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Tonight I plan on relaxing with the pups, the boy, and some Betty ( freakin) White on SNL ( yes, we missed it...I'm not an enormous fan of SNL- but Betty White makes it worth it!!) and I cannot wait until 6:00 ..and its not even 10:30!!<br />
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Until then I will sit at work and daydream about our trip to Colorado we're taking in about a month to celebrate this<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-glQzJeVbI/AAAAAAAAAkE/iMQMB0M022w/s1600/ccart.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469662717979547058" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-glQzJeVbI/AAAAAAAAAkE/iMQMB0M022w/s400/ccart.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 269px;" /></a><br />
and this!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-glQgAxOGI/AAAAAAAAAj8/ODo1fyoJb0E/s1600/fam.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469662712842762338" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NTA3rVCvcb8/S-glQgAxOGI/AAAAAAAAAj8/ODo1fyoJb0E/s400/fam.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 265px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a>I can't believe its almost been a year!!!! I love my guy ( and all these wonderful people!!)<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">(side note- listening to the Sufjan Stevens Pandora station while very sleepy..at work..probably not the smartest idea..its so soothing!)</span><br />
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Edit: finally got a new blog look! what do you think?I was going for ...not busy..:)Cassimus T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03099671108873992387noreply@blogger.com1