Patience

Streams in the Desert is the devotional guide I am reading. It is such a great devotional; I would definitely recommend it if you need a good one.

In todays reading, it really hit home. It was talking about obstacles that are hinderances to our spiritual growth and how we so often are impatient for them to go away. However, these obstacles are the very thing which produce the gift and quality of character we pray for--one of the main ones being pateince. And the only way to acquire these gifts and character traits are to endure the trials adn overcome obstacles which seem unbearable. I must remember that God is in control and nothing is impossible for Him. I need to stop running away, submit to God, and trust He will help me overcome these trials.

My trials and obstacles:

1. Living with the in-laws

2. Not having a home

3. Not being in control of the house I live in

4. Not serving in Peace Corps already

5. Not being in school

6. Having all "my stuff" in storage

7. Leaving for Peace Corps soon

8. Comparing myself to others

9. Failing to see the real me--the one God created

10. Not really knowing who I am

These are some of the marjor things that cause me to be impatient, snippy, angry, jealous, and generally disgruntled with life. I am aware of all this, but I haven't really taken any steps to deal with it. I just blow up and things seem okay for awhile and then it all builds up again. Maybe now that I am "publicly" acknowledging my need to trust God to handle, I will be able to let some of it go or at least have the strength to push through.

Here I go. God, save me!

Green Update

I haven't really talked about anything green we have done lately. However, our compost is looking so rich and black. Nick's parent recently used some sompost soil to plant flowers. The flowers are looking fantastic despite the lack of rain we've had. Also we have a tomato plant growing out of the compost pile. No tomatoes yet but the plant is looking good.

In the garden, tomatoes are coming in. I haven't had any turn red yet, but I am expecting that any day now. The hot peppers are coming in like crazy!! I have used several peppers in recipes--spaghetti sauce, pico de gallo, and cilantro rice. We had a watermelon start growing but it shriveled up and turned black. I think the vine is still all immature to grow the melon to full size.

Also I think I have mentioned Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap before, but I just wanted to reiterate how awesoem this soap is. I use it for so much--shampooing, bathing, moping, washing clothes, and dishes. It is seriously some of the purest most versatile soap one can use. And it cost pennies compared to buying laundry detergent, dish detergent, shampoo, conditioner, bathroom cleaner, and bath soap/body wash. I wish everyone would just try this soap; I really believe you would be converted.

Dinner and a Snack

I wish I had taken pictures of these recipes, but oh well...they were delish! nonetheless.

Stuffed Portabellos: Serves 2 (but easily doubles or triples)

2 portabello caps

1 cup leftover spanish rice (I made a homemade version, but store bought works well)

1/2 cup cheddar cheese

1/4 cup oil

Heat the oven to 375*. Oil the top and bottom of the mushroom. Place the caps top side down (the stem side should be facing up). Put the rice on top of the mushroom. Then top it all off with cheese. Bake it for about 15mins then broil for about 3mins or until cheese is melty and bubbling. Enjoy!

Cinnamon Sticks: Serves 2-4

1 can refridgerated breadsticks (refridgerated pizza dough can be substituted)

2 cups oil--guesstimate

some cinnamon and sugar

Pour oil into 10" or 12" frying pan. Oil should be about 1 1/2" deep (may need more than two cups--I didn't measure last night). Roll each breadstick out to about one foot long. When oil is about 350* or bubbles around the end of breadstick, lay three breadsticks in and fry about 30-45 seconds each side. They will puff up so DO NOT crowd the pan. When golden brown on each side, take out and drain on a paper towel and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Enyjoy!

An Oldie...but a Goodie

I grew up listening to late 80s and early 90s pop love songs. The song "I love a rainy night" came to mind and I HAD to listen. It just made me think about other songs I used to listen to all the time and brought back some fun memories. Here is a list of a few faves:

I love a rainy night--Eddie Rabbit

I wanna ance with somebody--Whitney Houston

Karma chameleon--Culture Club

Don't you want me, baby--Human League

What I like about you--The Romantics

Conga--Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine

Wake me up before you go-go--Wham!

and anything early Mariah Carey

What did you listen to while growing up?

Midnight Train to Georgia...well almost

This weekend Nick and I took a trip to Georgia to see some good friends and attend Faith wedding reception. It was a long, tiring weekend, but it was good to see the girls. I really miss having girl friends to hang out with anytime so it was refreshing to be back together with all of them. Pictured are Allison, myself, Faith (the blushing), and Patti Mae.

Here are Nick and I (compliments of Allison). Normally I don't like pictures of myself, but I love this one and another Allison took of her and I. Also, Nick cleans up pretty good. :)

This probably my favorite picture of Faith and Brian. I like the angle; I think it just adds a cool element to your traditional wedding pictures. Also, Faith's dress was FABULOUS!! She picked a beautiful, classic shape with a gorgeous lace overlay and a bit of sparkle. Loved it!!

New Recipe

I made this recipe up a couple weeks ago but have just been to busy to make them. However, I wish had done it sooner because they were great!! We had them paired with corn and mashed potatoes. They would be a great appitzer though and can be made quickly. I really hope you'll try this one; I think you'll LOVE IT!! I know it is definitely a keeper for us.

Buffalo Chicken Wontons: Serves 5

approx. 20 wonton wrappers

1/2 cup water

1 large canned chicken, drained

4 oz softened cream cheese

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup Frank's Red Hot sauce

1/2 cup oil

Preheat oven to 375*. Lightly oil baking sheet. Flake chicken with fork then add cheeses and hot sauce. Place about a tablespoon of mixure one one half of the wonton wrapper. Moisten edges of wonton with water, fold edges together and lightly press to seal. Place wonton on baking sheet and lightly oil the top. Bake about 10mins or until egdes begin to brown.

July 4th Pictures

Here we are the Nationals stadium. It was a bit windy on the concourse but felt great!!

The entrance was right next to the metro station. There were a lot of people there.
Here's the stadium. It looks all gray when you see it on tv, but in person it actually really nice.
Go Chipper!! Chipper Jones had a great day...even if we lost. Go Braves!!

July 4th Weekend

I planned a special trip for Nick and kept it secret for 3 months!!! A definite record for me since I like to give presents the same I buy them. Anyways, it was a trip to see the Braves play the Nationals in Washington, DC.

We got a steal of a deal at the Raddison Inn in Arlignton--$99 for two nights!! (Really it was buy in night get one free but still...) It was a really nice hotel--sleep number beds, down comforters, roof top pool, close to shops, restaurants and metro stations. However the service was terrible. The staff was not friendly, and they charged for parking and extra amenities!! What kind of hotel is this!

Friday, we visited my grandmother in Richmond for about an hour and a half then continued on our journey. That evening, we did find this modern Thai restaurant where the food was fabulous. I got my favorite Thai dish, Pad Thai, and Nick got Basil Rice, which was extremely spicy. We stayed in for the rest of night since we were tired from the trip. We watched "Bridge to Terabithia"; it was definitely better than I thought it would be but not one I would be upset about missing.

Saturday, we sunned at the pool for a bit, got ready for the game, and headed off for the metro. As a side note, DC Metro is confusing so make sure you pay attention to the signs and ask attendants if you need help!! Well, we got to the game about an hour before hand and walked abround the new stadium which looks much nicer in person than on tv. It is huge, but it seems like there would not really be a bad seat. They had good food and places to seat and eat without missing any action. We had great seats just past the third baseline and were close to all the action. Nick had a blast--even if the Braves lost. I am so happy he enjoyed the game. That night we stopped to eat at Noodles and Company. (If you haven't eaten there, you are missing out on some awesome food!!) Then we turned in for the night and just watched some tv.

Sunday we headed out early in search of a Dunkin' Donuts. Normally in abundance up North, we could not find one and abandoned our search. Then about five minutes later we found one and saw a 7Eleven on the way. So armed with a boston kreme donut, small coffee, chocolate chip muffin, and a medium Slurpee, we were back on the road home. Suprisingly, there was no major traffic on our way to from DC, but when we got to Oxford, NC (a little slice of nowhere) there was amjor traffic backup. We turned off on the next exit, got "lost", and then ended up back where we exited off in the first place. However, after our 30 minute detour, traffic was flowing and we finally made it home. Then left an hour later to have dinner with my sister and her husband, but that was really nice, especially since we had not seen them in 3 months.

All in all we had a wonderful time, and we so happy to have some time away.

Invest and Invite

What are you doing to invest in the lives of your friends/family/co-workers? I am really good as at investing in people. I listen to their needs and encourage and support them. I know their likes and dislikes. I give advice or guidance when asked. I like to buy them out-of-the-blue-thinking-of-you gifts. But so often I fail at the second part of the mission--inviting.

It is so easy to simply invest in the "right this moment"point of someone's life, but what about their eternal moment. Am I so invested I know, or at least have a good idea, that this person has made a decision about their eternal life? Not so much. I am trying to better with this. I live my life as a follower of Christ, and I know people see that. However, I want to see them living as a Christ follower as well. I want them to experience the same peace and hope and forgiveness and strength. I just need to take more time focusing on their eternity as well as their "right this moment" need.

Michael Jackson

I would just like to mark this day by saying this is the first legend in my generation to pass away. Michael Jackson was a music great and he will be deeply missed. I am saddened this day and just stunned.

Three Fishermen

This is one my favorite pictures I've taken. I took it last September while on vacation at the beach. I love the shadows, the lighting, the ocean and island in the distance. I love it when you are just snapping away with your camera and bam! you get this perfect shot. Once I thought about submitting it to the art contest at the state fair, but I never did. Maybe this year??

Double Chocolate Torte

I have made this torte before but I made some changes to the recipe so I thought I would post "my" recipe. Also I got to use fresh mint from the garden to garnish--yeah!

Double Chocolate Torte (serves 12)

Cake:

1 1/2 cups choclolate chips (semisweet or dark chocolate)

1 cup salted butter (2 sticks, use butter not margarine)

1/2 cup sugar

5 large eggs

1 tbsp vanilla extract

1/4 cup flour

Heat oven to 325* and butter a 10" springfrom pan. Melt chocolate and butter in microwave for 20 seconds at a time, stirring after each time. Allow chocolate to cool to room tempature. When cooled, whisk in sugar and add eggs one at a time, whisking in each egg thoroughly. Mix in vanilla and flour. Bake about 35 mins. (Cake will "fall" as it cools.) Once cake is cooled to room tempature top with chocolate mousse. Refridgerate overnight.

Mousse:

1 package silken tofu, drained (DO NOT use soft tofu. It makes for an odd consistency.)

1 1/4 cup chocolate chips (semisweet or dark chocolate)

2-3 tbsp water

2 tbsp syrup

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp vanilla

Bring tofu to room tempature. Place tofu in food processor and smooth completely. Melt chips and water in microwave in 20 second increments, stirring after each time. When completely melted, pour into food prcessor. Add syrup, honey and vanilla then process until combined. Spread evenly on cake and refrigerate overnight.

Topping: (make no more than 1-2 hours before serving)

1/2 pint heavy whipping cream

3 tbsp powdered sugar

Chill bowl in freezer for 20-30 mins. Pour in whipping cream and powdered sugar into chilled bowl and whip with mixer on high. Whip about 5 mins and when cream has thickened, spread evenly over mousse and top with fresh fruit, if desired. Enjoy!

and all hell breaks loose

So we went to the beach two weeks ago and had a wonderful relaxing time. And that was the end of that. Since we've been back home it has been go, go, go and I am just not used to this type of schedule. There are tons of things going on at the church so I am constantly busy whereas I used to work a little, chat some, do a little more work, chat more and then time to leave. I am taking on more responsiblities with our small groups, Next Steps (deals with first time guests, new believers, and care ministry), and Block Party. I really like volunteering there. It is a great environment to be, but lately, I am tired when I leave.

Also babysitting is proving to be alot more challenging. This Monday I kept Ethan and his sister Elhannah (7yr old). They are wonderful kids--self-sufficient, quiet, well behaved, but it was chaos Monday. Elhannah was watching a movie while I fixed lunch, and when I returned upstairs she said she had a headache. I told her to lie down and went to call her dad. Well, while I was calling him she came downstairs and told me her head was really pounding and started crying and rolling around the bed moaning. Couldn't reach her dad or her mom or my mom or the parents again or my dad the first time, then I finally reached my dad the second time I called him and asked what to do. He said give her some baby Tylenol (all I had in the diaper bag), but she refused to take anything--even if I mixed it in some juice. Finally, after about 15 mins of crying and moaning, her dad calls me back and I tell him whats going on and he says he'll be there soon. In the meantime, Elhannah leaves the room and is in the bathroom gagging and heaving. By this time, Ethan is getting cranky because he's hungry and sleepy. It was madness and I thought I might have to take Elhannah to Urgent Care! Luckily her dad was there about 15 mins later and while we are outside she vomits in the yard. It was disgusting! Also the dad calls me later and tells me she has Strep as well. Fun. She is doing better now, but her dad said she was pretty sick Tuesday and Wednesday.

Before Elhannah's incident though, we got locked out the house (we were house sitting for friend) at 2am Sunday morning. It is a long story so check it out on Nick's blog. I spent all day cleaning Cynthia's house and was at church yesterday and today. I just feel exhausted and the week isn't over yet. We are going a party Saturday, taking Nick's dad to lunch Sunday, and going to baseball game Sunday night. Then babysitting, volunteering and weekend plans begin all over again. It's going to be like this through mid-July. I guess it is good; it will help time seem to go by faster and be even closer to leaving.

On a lighter note, I am getting a new hairstyle soon. Kind of a modified Victoria Beckham bob. I am hoping when the back grows out it will grow more even with the front. I have hair angel and she is doing a great job helping me look good while growing my hair out again. I like my short hair but it is kind of a pain to keep up.

Anyways, I had a new recipe idea for Buffalo Fried Wontons. I think I am going to try it next week so I'll report back soon. I really like to cook, but most stuff I make is a modified version of some else's recipe. I am excited to create my own. I REALLY hope it turns out well.

Well, off to watch my favorite show...So You Think You Can Dance. Yeah!!

How does my garden grow?

Very well indeed. Nothing else has died since I replanted, and everything is taking off and growing so fast. Hopefully we will have more "fruit" soon.

This one of our watermelon plants. We have four (three doing really well) and looking great. The vines can get kind of crazy so hopefully they won't interfere with the squash and zucchini plant close by (which also grows crazily).

This is my first plant to actually bear fruit. It is one of my four hot banana peppers. I think they need to be about 4-5" long and 1-2" wide before picking so I have a bit to before harvesting, but as soon as I do I'll post my recipe for it.

This is a picture of one zucchini and one tomato plant. They are growing so fast. I need to tie up my tomato plants soon but I am trying to wait as long as possible so I don't have to retie later.

These last two pitures are my herbs. the cilantro didn't make it--not sure why but oh well. I do have some great spearmint (first pic) and chives and curly parsley. I made a fabulous melted herb butter tonight using my chives and parsley. Anyways, I love my garden; it is flourishing and looks better than I ever thought it could!!

Surf's Up (Video)

This the video I made featuring the rolling surf of Oak Island, NC.  I think it turned out pretty great.  Hope you enjoy it.

Surf's up

Nick and I had a great time at the beach this past weekend.  Probably, the best trip we have taken to the beach.  The weather was perfect...a little overcast but cooler tempratures and ocean breezes kept us feeling wonderful.  The ocean waves rolled in perfectly.  Pelicans and seagulls dove in catching fish like crazy.  Not really any kids, only the locals, so it was so peaceful.

This is one of my favorite pictures from the weekend.  It's all the shells we collected, but I thought it was an interesting shot from the "wrong" side of the shell.    We both are trying to get better at our photography.  We took some action shots of waves, but I want to try making a "movie" of the pictures first.  If it works out I'll post here.

Here we are relaxing after a day of frolicking on the beach.  Happy as clams.  We enjoyed ourselves immensely and can't wait to go back again. 

Busy busy busy

This is a wonderful dessert I made for dinner Monday night.  We had Nick's grand- parents over for dinner.  I fixed a great meal of zesty pot roast, potatoes, carrots and gravy.  The secret was adding salsa while cooking the roast.  For the dessert, I made a double chocolate torte (recipe here).  It was delicious, probably the best dessert I had ever made.  My only suggestion would be to use a different mousse recipe; the one given was a little time consuming and difficult.  Everyone had a great time and really enjoyed everything.  

This is the little boy I am keeping.  He is great!!  The other day he was fussy and that was just a little whining before he took a nap.  I mean it just doesn't get better.  He is absolutely wonderful. He is exhausting though.  I mean even though he is great, he is all over the place and wanting to explore everything.  Also, he wants to walk everywhere instead of crawling, but he has to hpld onto my hands.  I love keeping him though.  I am so happy to help his parents out.  I really think being here will help in his development.  We take walks, explore the outdoors (flowers, leaves, rocks), and learn about dogs, animals, birds, colors, and numbers.

Tomorrow my dad is coming through town.  He is taking me to lunch which is fabulous.  I have come a long way in my relationship with my dad--just in the last year and a half.  It is still really weird getting together with him, but we are working on it.  Also I am happy he is coming through town because that means he has work (he hasn't worked in about 8 months).  Thank God!

Also my sister got a new used car.  Funny thing is it is the same color, year, and make as my car. She has to replace the windshield and paint it, but it was steal of a deal--$350.  I am so happy for her.  Her and Chris have grown so much in their faith and relationship just in the last six months.  I can't believe how great they are doing, but it is a great testimony to the Lord's faithfulness and his forgiveness.

Whirlwind Weekend

This weekend is packed!!  Tonight Nick and I are going to see "Up".  It looks fantastic and we have been waiting months for it to come out.  Then we are stoppinga the rec center to swim some laps.  We haven't been swimming since we moved so I am really looking forward to it.  I liked when we lived down the road fromt the rec center; we played racquetball quite a bit and swam often.  After swimming, we are going for a bite to eat.  Who knows where, but we will definitely be enjoying our time together.

Then tomorrow, Nick's family and we are going to the "Got to be NC" festival.  It is an awesome festival that promotes North Carolina products, farms, and bbq-ers.  There are tons of exhibits, free food, a bbq cookkoff (and tasting), and a mini carnival.  We went last year and had a great time.  I am really excited about it this year!!

Then Sunday, our small group will be meeting for the last time until fall.  It will be nice to see everyone, but it is sad knowing it is the last one.  By the time we start meeting again, Nick and I will be leaving in a few weeks plus we will be out of town visiting friends and family.  I must say when we joined this group last February, I really did not like it.  Everyone was so different from ourlast group, and the meting had a much more serious feel.  However, I really have grown to enjoy meeting with them, and we have met some really cool people.  Now I still miss meeting with our old group, but I look forward to seeing everyone in the new group also.

Well today is exactly four months until we fly out with Peace Corps.  On Sept. 29, 2009 Nick and I will be in Philadelphia meeting the folks we will be training with for the next three months.  We'll get anymore vaccinations, have final checks on passports/visas, learn a bit about where we are going/staying in Turkmenistan, and then we'll leave out for 27 months.  The closer it gets the more I realize everything we are leaving behind.  I mean some things are good to leave behind--boring jobs, consummerism, television addiction.  But everyone we know is here, all my cooking stuff is here, safety in knowing everything is going to be fine is here.  I mean we're crazy doing this.  Sometimes I want to back out and just move to Colorado but I know if we don't do this, we are just going to keep getting stuck in a rut with our jobs.  I really want to be excited about this trip (and I am most times), but it is really scary at the same time--at least I will have Nick beside me.

My Summer

This summer I will be doing something that most people who know me would be extremely surprised by...babysitting.  I will be watching an 8 month old little boy, Ethan.  He is extremely laid back, probably one of the best kids I know.  He is very bright and inquisitive.  I am hoping he'll be walking soon, but he sure does crawl around fast now.  I really am enjoying keeping him so far; it is tiring, but at least it is only for a few hours.  I'll probably talk more about him later on, but surprise, surprise I still cannot believe I actually said yes to babysit.

Also, next week we get to vacay at the beach!!  Nick's grandparents have a great little cottage.  They built it back in the '60s and it still looks exactly the same--vinyl sofa and chairs, orginal matresses, vintage serving/diningware, and formica dining table and chairs.  I love it just like it is (although a new matress would be fabulous).  It is like stepping back into a time where life made more sense and you could actually relax--no computers, ipods, or cell phones.  I am really looking forward to going.  It is going to be the last time for a couple years so I really want to each it this time.

Also, Friday will be exactly four months until we begin our adventure with the Peace Corps.  It is still scary to think about leaving everything for two years but it will be a literal once-in-a-lifetime experience.  We did receive some language audio and pdf files this week.  It covers basic Turkmen--abc's, numbers, and basic phrases (ex. where is the bathroom?).  It seems pretty easy to learn, although there is more use of consonants making some words harder to understand.  Overall though, I think Nick and I should do very well with picking up the language.  On a side note, we do have to get dental exams redone.  So please pray with us for the money to be provided to cover this without having to use our savings up again.

Lastly, my garden is looking good.  We have five watermelon sprouts, my zucchini is making a comeback, and there are flowers on the hot banana pepper plants!  The only thing that has not been sucessful is my cilantro which is this one thing I was most excited about.  Oh well.  

Anniversary Dinner

For our anniversary, we went to dinner at George's Gareage.  It was fabulous, as usual.  We shared a crab cake appetizer.  Probably, the best crab cake I have ever had, and I've had alot considering I am from Maryland.  Nick had seafood pasta for his entree.  It was angel hair pasta with shrimp, scallops, mussell, clams, and calamari and a spicy white wine marinara.  Really good but too much stuff for one dish and a little expensive.  I had a spinach salad and linguine.  The salad had feta, walnuts and delicious blueberry vinagrette.  I love the linguine and it was only $9!!  It comes with this fabulous spicy marinara.  Then we shared tiramisu for dessert.  Also fabulous and not too expensive.  It was a great night and a great meal.   We love George's and if you are ever in the area and want a nice meal check it out.

Hot and Cheesy Potato Casserole

I made this casserole up after thinking all day about what to cook tonight for dinner.  It was so simple and quick.  Also I sauteed some green pepper and onion we had on hand and served that for the side.  Nick ate about half the casserole, he enjoyed it so much.  Defintely will need to double the recipe if I fix it for the whole family next time.

Recipe: Serves 4

2 pkgs Idahoan instant potatoes (any variety)

4 beef hot links (kielbasa or beef sausage would be a fine substitute)

3/4 cup sour cream

1/2 cup milk

1 1/4 cup cheddar cheese

Heat oven to 375*.  Cook potatoes according to pkgs. directions.  Meanwhile, slice hot link into 1/2" rounds and cook on medium high heat.  When potatoes are done stir in sour cream and milk.  In a 9x9 baking dish, add 1/2 of the cheese and spread potatoes on top.  When hot links are done cooking, spread out on top of potatoes and top with rest of cheese.  Bake uncovered for 15 mins.  Then turn on broiler and bake until cheese is just turning brown and getting bubbly.  Enjoy!

Only 180 More To Go

Yesterday was our 3 year anniversary.  I still can't believe it's three years already.  Everyone keeps telling me it only seems to go by faster the longer your are married.  I want to slow down though.  I already feel like I am missing stuff or memories are running together.  But all in all, I love it!  I love being married, I love the man I married.  He is an incredible gift from God.  He loves all of me and that is something I never thought anyone but God could love.  He challenges me.  He goofs off with me.  And he takes care of me.  We have been through up and downs already and we're still just starting out.  Through it all though we are only closer to each other and to God.  We have the most wonderful marriage and I cannot wait to see what waits for us in the next 180 years.

I love you babe!! You are the greatest man I know!  Happy "late" Anniversary!

Virginia Creeper Trail

This weekend Nick's family, some friends and us went to Damascus, Va for a bike trip.  We had a blast. 

On Friday night we had slight mishap with the tacos.  Nick's mom dropped a whole sheet of tacos and Ricky decided this little broom would be great to use for clean up.  Funny...but what a mess!!

 This is us starting out on the Virginia Creeper Trail.  It is a 17 mile long up or downhill trail.  Obviously, we went downhill since none of us are experience cyclists.

The trail is gorgeous.  There is a river that flows by the whole trail with several bridges that cross over.

This is me finally finishing the ride.  The last mile is KILLER!!  My butt was so sore and my arms ached, but I FINISHED!!!  17 miles!

This is the river by our cabin.  There was a huge log "bridge" to cross over.  That is Nick's mom finally making it over.  It was a beautiful area we stayed at.  If you ever get a chance to ride the trail, do it.  It was really gorgeous and so much fun!!

Easy Dinner

Last night we grilled leftover hamburgers from our bike trip (see next post), steamed broccoli with a balsamic reduction sauce, sauteed spinach and steamed corn. Yummy!

Broccoli with Balsamic Reduction:

2 large stems broccoli

1 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1 tsp brown sugar

1 tsp flour

1/4 water

Chop broccoli into flowerettes and place in microwaveable bowl.  Cover bowl with saran wrap and microwave for 5 mins on high power.  On stove bring vinegar to boil and when it is reduced by 1/2 add the brown sugar and slurry (flour and water mix until no clumps remain).  Reduce heat so it doesn't burn and let suace thicken.  When sauce is dark (like chocolate) and coats spoon it is done.  Drizzle sauce over broccoli and serve.

Sauteed spinach:

1 bag spinach (baby or regular)

3 cloves garlic, chopped

2 tbsp. onion, chopped

1-2 tbsp butter (we use smart balance spread)

Heat pan on medium heat and add butter.  When butter is melted, add garlic and onion.  Saute until golden brown, then add spinach--put spinach in a handful at a time; it will cook down but don't over fill the pan.  Saute until all the spinach is wilted and serve.  Enjoy!

Enchilada Casserole

I forgot to take a photo of this dish but everyone really enoyjed it.  Plus, it was super easy.  We had some leftover steak so I slowcooked it until it was really tender and added it to the casserole.

Recipe:  Serves 6-8

1 jar salsa

1 bag baby spinach leaves

4 burrito size tortillas, cut into 3" wedges

1 can corn, drained well

1 can black beans, drained well

1/2 bag mexican blend cheese or cheddar

Preheat oven to 400*.  In 13x9 baking dish, spread a layer of salsa, just enough to cover the bottom.  Top with tortillas (cover salsa completely) and spread half of black beans and corn.  Layer with half the bag of spinach and top with salsa.  Repeat with tortillas, black beans, corn and spinah.  Top off with any leftover salsa and tortillas.  Bake for 30 mins.  Then add cheese and bake for an additional 10 mins.  Enjoy.

So You're Dead, Now What?

My garden has been doing really well, but we were having a problem with wild onions and weeds.  We had wanted to grow without pesticides.  I thought since we did not have any "fruit" yet I would go ahead and srapy for weeds.  However, I sprayed some of the plants (the bottle did say it was safe to use on flowers and vegetable plants), and by the time Nick came home--about two hours after I sprayed--all but two of my plants were dead!!!  I was so upset.  But...I did start over.  I had to get four more tomato plants, four more hot banana pepper plants, and plant more zucchini.  I guess I learned my lesson.  

Also, we planted sugar baby melons.  Yum!!

I haven't really fixed many great dinners lately.  I did try to make a "fall-apart" pork last night, but it didn't cook all the way through.  I ended up slicing some off and finishing it in the microwave.  The flavor was great, and I think I might try it again and just cook it slow all day.

If you would like to try it, check out the RV Cooking Show.  

Contemplations

I have been reading the new issue of Relevant Magazine, and it has caused me to do some thinking.

1) Sloth--One of the "Seven Deadly Sins".  Being a sloth is not equivalent to being a couch potato.  It is the attitude, knowingly or unknowingly, of apathy.  I am a sloth by this definition.  Yes I care about my husband and my church, but outside of that, I am pretty much apathetic towards most things.  Right now, my focus has been solely on me and how much longer I am going to be stuck in the "phase/chapter" of my life.  I am sick of it--the waiting, the passion waning, the slow death of my spirit, the general discontent, the compromising, the noise to fill time (and the noise that irritates).  I just want it to all be over so I can move on to a more exciting part of life.  We decided almost two years ago to join the Peace Corps and we are still stuck in Durham and now living with Nick's parents.  I have let my time in Durham slowly kill my spirit of giving, loving, caring, helping and serving.  I let go of most of my friendships stating they didn't care about me anymore, but it is mostly because I "feel" like everyone else gets to move on with their lives and I am stuck in the holding pattern.  I need to change.  God did not create me to be selfish.  He created me to care about others and show them His unconditional love.  I want to change and be empathetic and caring again.  It just feels like too much work to change now...

2) TOMS shoes--I have a chance to change the life of another.  Why am I not doing it?  I talk about social justice issues and how Christians need to become the leaders on these issues, but I am doing nothing about it myself.  For bewteen $44 and $98 I could get two awesome pairs of shoes--one for me, one for someone overseas to desititute to even own shoes.  Yet I spend probably 2-3 times this much just on food (grocery and dining out).  Really I need to cut back.  That next time I want to go out, why don't I just give the money to a great organization and help life change begin.

3) Prayer--I pray often, but mostly it is selfish praying.  I want to pray for others.  I need to pray for others.  The Apostle Paul writes over and over how he prays for others always.  He thanks God for the lives and ministries of fellow Christ Followers.  He prays for their needs to be met and for God to bless them for the work they are doing.  And all of this is while Paul sits on prison for preaching the same message.  I want to be able to pray for other unselfishly--just to thank God for using them and blessing their lives and leave it at that. 

These are just a few thoughts going on in this crazy mind God gave me.  Hopefully, getting them out here will provide with rest for tonight, but if not maybe new thoughts to aprk my new journey of life change will grow in my restlessness.  

New Garden

We decided to plant a garden this year.  We only had a small place but there were lots of weeds and monkey grass to remove.  It took two work days to clear out everything but finally got it done, and it looks great!

This is the garden before.

These are our zucchini plants.  I planted them last Wednesday, and they are sprouting already! There are four plants (only two growing yet).  Can't wait to harvest some of these and grill some kabobs!

This is the garden after the first half was cleared and planted.  I planted two Roma tomato plants (on the left), two Homestead tomato plants (on the back right), and two hot banana peppers (in the front).  I think it looks great.  We just need some rain!!

This is my cilantro planter.  I had six sprouts but three died because I left them in the sun too long one day--it was extremely hot that day.  I have three still living and planted five more.  Hopefully, there will be some new sprouts next week.

These are my other herbs.  All my chives (in the back) are doing great.  The parsley (in the middle) is good--I had one casuality with the hot weather.  The thyme (front to picture) is so-so.  Lost two plants and it is not growing that much.  I am patiently hoping it makes it.
 

Also, I have spearmint which is sprouting like crazy.  I will also be planting yellow squash next week, but we need more soil.  I really like gardening.  It is tons of hard preparation work but the outcome is a great reward!!

Top 5...

...salads!!

Crazy post, I know, but I love to eat salad. All of these are restaurant salads (some healthy and some not so)and hear goes...

5. Southwest Chicken Salad (McDonald's)

4. The Blue with buffalo chicken (Zaxby's)

3. 7-Pepper Steak Salad (Longhorn's)

2. Blue Cheese Wedge (Outback)

1. Spicy Chargrilled Chicken (Chick-fil-a)

One Week

Last week Nick and I participated in National Turn Off Your TV week.  It was pretty easy at first, but as the week went on we kind of got really irritated with the whole notion.  We are not the type of people to be dominated by television, but there just was not anything going on last week so it made it harder to fill our time.  We played games with the family, read a lot, went to the library, and took a trip out to the art museum and mall.  It was nice to have the silence and we definitely talked alot more to each other.  Also my mother-in-law and I went to lunch and checked out some local shops.  It was really nice to spend some time with her and just "girl talk"--something I get to do often.  

Overall, nothing profound came out of this experience, but there was more awareness of how we spend our time.  Sometimes we just need to turn off the t.v. and relax. 

Delicious Donuts

Nick and I made donuts and donut holes for breakfast.  And they were fantastic...and incredibly easy to make!!  i posted the recipe below if you want to try it out.

Recipe:

1 pkg. refridgerated pizza dough

2 tbsp. flour

1 to 1 1/2 cups oil

1/4 cup cinnamon sugar

1/4 cup powdered sugar

2" cookie cutter

1/2" cookie cutter

Heat oil in 10" skillet on medium high heat.  On a clean counter, spread out flour and roll out pizza dough.  Thin dough to about 1/8" to 1/4".  Flour cookie cutters and cut all large circles first.  Then with smaller cutter, cut out the center of donuts.  When oil is heated, place donuts in and cook about 30-45 seconds each side.  Place on towel lined baking sheet and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar.*

For the cut out centers (aka donut holes), place holes in oil and cook for about 20 seconds each side.  Place some cinnamon or powdered sugar in a brown paper bag and place cooked holes inside.  Fold top of bag and shake well to evenly coat donut holes.*

Enjoy with a fresh cup of fair trade coffee or a tall glass of local farm milk.

*NOTE:  I made my donuts with cinnamon sugar and the holes with powdered sugar.  However, I think it might work better doing the opposite as the powdered sugar is a little to heavy for the donuts holes. 

Cookout

This Saturday we had a cookout and it was a blast!  I love to entertain.  Really, I love all the prep work, cooking, and setting up.  Anyways, we had tons of great food and laughs.  I was so happy everyone could come.

I wanted to share a couple recipes that were huge hits...

Bacon Cheddar Dogs (courtesy of Big Daddy's House--Food Network)

1 pack hotdogs

4 oz block of cheese

1 pkg. bacon (regular or thick sliced)

Heat oven to 400*.  Cut cheddar lengthwise into 1/4" slices.  Cut each slice into thirds.  Slice each hotdog a little more than halfway through and place two slices of cheese inside.  Wrap one bacon slice around the hotdog (holds the cheddar in).  Make sure bacon is wrapped around the entire hotdog--stretchit out some if it needs to be longer.  Place hotdog on wire (metal) cooling rack and set rack on a baking sheet.  Place in oven for about 15 mins or until bacon is crispy.  Serve immediately with all you favorite hotdog condiments.  Enjoy!!

**The following recipe was an accident so all measurements are approximate.

Dijon Vinagrette:

2 tbsp grainy dijon mustard (grey poupon works well)

2 tbsp honey mustard

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/4 balsamic vinegar

1 tsp slepnda (or sugar)

pinch of salt

1/4 cup oil

Whisk all ingredients well and taste--adjust if needed.  (It should taste like a vinagrette with a slight sweetness.)  Serve on your favortie salad or just a bowl of lettuce.  

Better Than Sex...

Cupcakes!!!  Omg...these were fabulous.  I found the recipe completely by accident, but thank you to the Cupcake Project.  I actually changed a few things--used soy milk, a tofu chocolate mousse, and a butter blend rather than butter, but they turned out better than I could hope for.

Here are pictures of my cupcakes.

Oh...so yummy

and so pretty!!

Twisted Tetrazzini

This is a dish I made up, but it can be made with almost any veggie, added meat or quick melting cheese.  We just had these ingridients on hand so that is what I used.  Everyone enjoyed it.

Recipe Serves 4-6

1 can cream of chicken (or mushroom)

1 cup milk

1/2 box spaghetti

1/2 bunch aspargus, chopped 1" pieces

2 stalks celery, diced

1 small bunch scallions (green onions), chopped

2/3 cup shredded Italian blend cheese

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup fried onions

Preheat oven to 350*.  Grease 11x7 casserole dish.  Cook pasta until al dente (firm) and drain.  While pasta is cooking, place cream of chicken, milk and sallion in pot over low-medium heat.  When throughly heated add cheeses. Sauce should be creamy but somewhat thin--like pancake mix consistentcy.  Meanwhile, steam asparugus and celery in microwave for 4-5 mins.  Place spaghetti in dish, layer with steamed veggies and top with sauce.  Stir slightly, spread out evenly and top with extra cheese and fried onions, if desired.  Bake for 10-15 mins or until onions and cheese begin to brown.  Serve and enjoy.

Easter

Today was my first time fixing a holiday meal for the whole family.  Everything turned out great even though there was a small scare that the pork shoulder (or ham as Nick's family calls it) may not be done.  Nick's parents, grandparents and one brother were here.  We had a great time and stuffed ourselves.  

I love Easter.  By far my favorite holiday.  Last year I had this whole break down in the church parking lot about not being with my family and really celebrating the day together. My family always makes a big deal out of Easter--baskets, big traditional dinner, church.  This year it was much better--at least there was no break down.  Also Nick and I have focused on Passover and Easter this past week.  We had a beautiful palm Sunday service at our church and then attended the Maundy (Holy) Thursday service and the Good Friday service at Duke Chapel.  Both were just powerful reminders of what Christ did so that salvation as we know could be given.  Check out Nick's blog for a great reflection of the services.

Take a moment and think about what Christ did and how that has changed your life.  

Hydroponics

Lat month Nick and I watched a special on hydroponically grown lettuce so I thought I would try some.  I used for a salad on Sunday and must say it was delicious!!  Very fresh tasting and easy to tear for the salad.  Also, because of the way it grows, it makes a great garish for a party dish--sandwiches, vegetable tray, mini chicken salads.   I would definitely recommend trying it.  For a picture see post Mmm...Mmm...Mmm. 

Recipes--Sunday Dinner

Thai Pork Tenderloin:

2 Pork Tenderloins (about 3 lbs total)

1/4 cup oil plus 2 tbs. extra

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup pineapple juice

1/4 cup lime juice

Marinate pork for 2-3 hours.  Pre-heat oven to 375*.  Heat 2 tbsp. in oven proof pan and brown pork on all sides.  When browned,  place in for 40 mins or until meat is 165*.  Rest meat for 10 mins. and slice one tenderloin into 1/4" slices.  Save second tenderloin for later in the week. (see last recipes for a great idea.)

Thai Fried Rice

3 tbsp of oil

1 bag of "boil in bag" rice (brown or white), cooked.

1 can corn

1 can balck beans

1 jalapeno pepper, diced (if more heat desired try serrano or habanero)

1 handful cilantro

1 medium tomato, diced

1/2 can pinapple, diced to 1/4" pieces

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 lime juice

couple pinches of salt

Cooked rice the day before and refidgerate overnight.  Rinse black beans and corn.  In your wok or large pot, heat oil and add rice, corn, pepper and balck beans.  When heated through, add tomatoes and pineapples.  Cook about 3 mins and then add cilantro, soy sauce, lime juice, and salt.  Once cilantro in wilted and most of sauce is absorbed (takes a few minutes) remove from heat and serve.  Garbish with extra cilantro, if desired.

Roasted Asparagus

1 to 1 1/2 lbs fresh asparagus

2 tbsp oil

salt and pepper

1 tbsp lime juice (optional)

Heat oven to 375*.  Prepare asparagus by snapping of the ends.  The stalk should have a natural "snapping point"; however, if it does snap just trim about 1" off the end.  Place asparagus on baking sheet and drizzle with oil, salt and pepper.  If you desire, also drizzle with lime juice.  Roast for 10-12 mins and serve.

Mmm...Mmm...Mmm

This was dinner today, and boy, was it great!!  I made two pork tenderloins (we had one on Thursday), roasted asparagus, salad and Thai Fried Rice--my personal speciality.  I'll post the recipies on my next post.

Composting

This are just some pictures of our compost heap.  Not much going on yet but the soil is looking a little bit richer.

Here it is after we added some yard leftovers.

Nick working hard.

Food waste...smells bad but great for the compost.

Here's our bin...yeah!!

Garden Pictures

These are my "babies".  Growing strong and healthy.  I have mostly parsley growing, but there are 4 chive sprouts and 1 thyme sprout.  I had a slight problem with mold being on some of the containers so I am not sure if that has affect some of the growth, but I got rid of all of it.  We'll see what happens with the rest.

Remodel

This the vinyl decal I put on my new cabinet/future kitchen island.  I love it and it fit perfectly!!

Fiesta Chicken

This is one of my favorite recipes.  It is one of those that just cleaned out the cabinet and worked.  I have fixed several times and all my friends love it!  Hope you try it and enjoy just as much as I do.

Fiesta Chicken:  Serves 2

2 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 can of corn

1 can of black beans (optional)

1 cup of salsa

1 cup of cheddar cheese (mexican blend or traditional mexican cheese can be used)

Cilantro, for garnish

Heat oven to 400* and grease 9x9 glass pan.  Drain and rinse corn and black beans.  Pour into pan and mix with 1/2 cup of salsa.  Lay chicken breasts on top of mixture and top with rest of salsa and cheese.  Bake 35-40 mins or until chicken reaches 170*.  Garnish with cilantro, if desired.  Enjoy!!

Herb Garden Update

This is my herb garden.  It is only in the beginning stage here.

Here is the garden on day 5 (I think), and the white/green dots are my herb starting to germinate!!  Only the parsley is grwoing yet, but over the next couple days the chives and thyme should start to appear.  

Success, yeah!!!