There are a lot of reasons that I love my husband. He's kind, he's patient, he's an amazing father, he's got a great sense of humor and all that jazz. But let me add one more reason to the list of why I will never leave Dave.
He has amazing parking karma.
It's uncanny. I cannot tell you how many times we've arrived at the mall during Christmas shopping madness and Dave will park three spots away from the door. Or how many times we're circling a full parking lot and someone just happens to leave just as Dave approaches. Or how parking spots miraculously open up on the street downtown where spots never open up. Most of the time I laugh. Sometimes I'm speechless. I often think, "how is this possible?" It is the strangest thing ever. After witnessing the magic over eleven years I'm starting to think of it less as parking karma and more as a superpower. It might not be suitable for the Justice League but the man has single-handedly saved me from walking about 30+ miles of parking lot during the course of our marriage.
Dave, you're a keeper.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Friday, November 14, 2008
My Little Carb Lover
Lucy giving her toast a hug. I wish you could hear the "Oohh" sound she makes when she hugs people, food or any inanimate object. We've definitely got another bread lover in the making. I will point out that she's a bread lover with a balanced diet - she kissed her zucchini just a few nights ago and she's been known to hug cheese. I love it!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
A Worthy Muffin
Muffins are powerful things. A dry and overly sweet muffin can make me downright grumpy but a good muffin, well, that's another story entirely. I've been in a baking rut with this particular muffin recipe lately. I'm about to make it for the fourth time in a mere month. But I don't think a rut can accurately describe my compulsion to bake these muffins repeatedly. A rut has a negative overtone when these muffins bring me a little bit of joy in the morning. They are like a self-help book in cake form.
And it's time for me to share.
This recipe comes from my King Arthur Baker's Companion. You may tire of me mentioning the flour and baking gods at King Arthur but get used to it. I will tell you that I wasn't super excited about these muffins initially. Maybe I wasn't used to the slightly nutty wheat flavor or the banana-chocolate combination. But these muffins grow on you and by the end of the batch I didn't want them to end. I even got a little sad as I savored the last muffin and I immediately checked my freezer for overripe bananas so I could make them all over again. One nice thing to note is they keep very well. Pop them in a airtight container and five days later you can take one out, microwave it for 10-15 seconds and you have a little ball of bliss in the palm of your hand. Spread on a little butter or gild the lily with some peanut butter and Mr Muffin becomes Sir Muffin. I might add, it's a beautiful thing to see butter melting into the nooks and crannies of this humble muffin (and for the record, muffin and crannies are two of my favorite words in the English language).
Free some time in your calendar to bake these and I promise you won't be disappointed.
Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
Edited to add for the time conscious - Because the thought of putting these together in the morning overwhelms me, I like to make the batter the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. I wake up and place the batter in a muffin tin while my coffee brews. In 20 minutes I've got fresh coffee and hot muffins; a great way to start the day.
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup white whole wheat flour or traditional whole wheat flour (I use traditional)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon allspice
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 medium size ripe bananas, mashed (about 3/4 cup)
1/3 cup milk
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, baking soda, salt..
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Scrape bowl down then beat in the egg, spices, mashed bananas and milk. Stir dry ingredients gently into the butter-sugar mixture.
Evenly divide the batter between a 12 cup muffin tin coated with nonstick spray. Bake until a toothpick placed in the center comes out mostly clean - about 18-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 to 10 minutes before carefully removing them from the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
I know that food posts should include a picture but we ate every last muffin. I would even say to myself, "I should take a picture" and the next thing I knew my muffin was gone. See previous post on my hedonistic tendencies.
And it's time for me to share.
This recipe comes from my King Arthur Baker's Companion. You may tire of me mentioning the flour and baking gods at King Arthur but get used to it. I will tell you that I wasn't super excited about these muffins initially. Maybe I wasn't used to the slightly nutty wheat flavor or the banana-chocolate combination. But these muffins grow on you and by the end of the batch I didn't want them to end. I even got a little sad as I savored the last muffin and I immediately checked my freezer for overripe bananas so I could make them all over again. One nice thing to note is they keep very well. Pop them in a airtight container and five days later you can take one out, microwave it for 10-15 seconds and you have a little ball of bliss in the palm of your hand. Spread on a little butter or gild the lily with some peanut butter and Mr Muffin becomes Sir Muffin. I might add, it's a beautiful thing to see butter melting into the nooks and crannies of this humble muffin (and for the record, muffin and crannies are two of my favorite words in the English language).
Free some time in your calendar to bake these and I promise you won't be disappointed.
Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
Edited to add for the time conscious - Because the thought of putting these together in the morning overwhelms me, I like to make the batter the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. I wake up and place the batter in a muffin tin while my coffee brews. In 20 minutes I've got fresh coffee and hot muffins; a great way to start the day.
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup white whole wheat flour or traditional whole wheat flour (I use traditional)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon allspice
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 medium size ripe bananas, mashed (about 3/4 cup)
1/3 cup milk
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, baking soda, salt..
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Scrape bowl down then beat in the egg, spices, mashed bananas and milk. Stir dry ingredients gently into the butter-sugar mixture.
Evenly divide the batter between a 12 cup muffin tin coated with nonstick spray. Bake until a toothpick placed in the center comes out mostly clean - about 18-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 to 10 minutes before carefully removing them from the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
I know that food posts should include a picture but we ate every last muffin. I would even say to myself, "I should take a picture" and the next thing I knew my muffin was gone. See previous post on my hedonistic tendencies.
Friday, November 7, 2008
No Self-Control
I have a confession to make. I played Christmas music today. Yes, I know I'm pathetic. It was only some quiet piano music. There were no jingle bells or big bands but, alas, it was Christmas music.
I admit, I have no self-restraint. Every year I tell myself to wait until after Thanksgiving and for good reason. Last year I was sick of Christmas music by Dec. 20th. But seriously, when Starbucks is pushing their Peppermint Mochas in my face while marketing Yo-Yo-Ma's new Christmas cd, what's a girl to do?
So I am tiptoeing lightly into the season. I know this may be sacrilegious to some people and I tend to agree with you. But I have no self-control. I'm allowing myself one album per day and they can only be calming and instrumental like George Winston's December. No voices singing, no big bands swinging and no sleigh bells ringing. Just some nice background music to make me feel better about the cold and wet weather. How's that for justification?
Oh, and I'm not allowed to pull out Charlie Brown Christmas until post-Thanksgiving. It may be instrumental but I do have some standards.
I admit, I have no self-restraint. Every year I tell myself to wait until after Thanksgiving and for good reason. Last year I was sick of Christmas music by Dec. 20th. But seriously, when Starbucks is pushing their Peppermint Mochas in my face while marketing Yo-Yo-Ma's new Christmas cd, what's a girl to do?
So I am tiptoeing lightly into the season. I know this may be sacrilegious to some people and I tend to agree with you. But I have no self-control. I'm allowing myself one album per day and they can only be calming and instrumental like George Winston's December. No voices singing, no big bands swinging and no sleigh bells ringing. Just some nice background music to make me feel better about the cold and wet weather. How's that for justification?
Oh, and I'm not allowed to pull out Charlie Brown Christmas until post-Thanksgiving. It may be instrumental but I do have some standards.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
A Time to Mourn
Yesterday was a rough day. I started out the day in a state close to euphoria after the election results. But life marches forward.
I received an email on Tuesday night from the leaders of my church. The email was an invitation to a time of prayer for the family of our youth pastor. Our youth pastor's son, Ben, is three years old and has been battling cancer for the past year. They learned this week that the cancer has returned aggressively and that treatment is no longer effective. In his parents' own words, their time with Ben is short.
Last night I went to this prayer service with a heavy heart. And as I made my way to the University District I was struck by the traffic caused by others coming to the service. With a full sanctuary, I joined with probably a thousand people to pray for this family.
It was one of the most powerful services I have ever attended. And the beauty was in the fact that it was a service of lament and grief. We prayed for healing but we also sat in the darkness together and part of our worship was asking the questions that so often are avoided in a church service. Why? Why to someone so young? Why have our prayers gone unanswered? Our new pastor read from Psalm 88 where the psalmist begins in a state of lament and he stays there. There were no trite words of "God is in control" or "God has a plan," words that fall so short in the midst of tragedy. Rather, there were words about the grief and pain that comes in the face of death. And our pastor wisely pointed out that in these times, "Grief surfaces grief," which is so true. So we grieved together for this family and also for our present griefs and the losses of our collective past.
I came to the service with a heavy heart and I left with a heavy heart. And I think that is how it should be. I do not know this family personally but I ache for them. And I'm glad that this service didn't try to keep us away from that anguish. As a community, we bear the anguish together. Yes, there are times to speak of hope but there are also times to mourn for the state of a broken and unjust world. Last night was one of those times to sit with the griefs we bear for ourselves and for others and not shy away from pain but share its immense weight.
So I sat with my community in the darkness and wept.
I received an email on Tuesday night from the leaders of my church. The email was an invitation to a time of prayer for the family of our youth pastor. Our youth pastor's son, Ben, is three years old and has been battling cancer for the past year. They learned this week that the cancer has returned aggressively and that treatment is no longer effective. In his parents' own words, their time with Ben is short.
Last night I went to this prayer service with a heavy heart. And as I made my way to the University District I was struck by the traffic caused by others coming to the service. With a full sanctuary, I joined with probably a thousand people to pray for this family.
It was one of the most powerful services I have ever attended. And the beauty was in the fact that it was a service of lament and grief. We prayed for healing but we also sat in the darkness together and part of our worship was asking the questions that so often are avoided in a church service. Why? Why to someone so young? Why have our prayers gone unanswered? Our new pastor read from Psalm 88 where the psalmist begins in a state of lament and he stays there. There were no trite words of "God is in control" or "God has a plan," words that fall so short in the midst of tragedy. Rather, there were words about the grief and pain that comes in the face of death. And our pastor wisely pointed out that in these times, "Grief surfaces grief," which is so true. So we grieved together for this family and also for our present griefs and the losses of our collective past.
I came to the service with a heavy heart and I left with a heavy heart. And I think that is how it should be. I do not know this family personally but I ache for them. And I'm glad that this service didn't try to keep us away from that anguish. As a community, we bear the anguish together. Yes, there are times to speak of hope but there are also times to mourn for the state of a broken and unjust world. Last night was one of those times to sit with the griefs we bear for ourselves and for others and not shy away from pain but share its immense weight.
So I sat with my community in the darkness and wept.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
A Little St. Francis
One of my favorite things in our home is an illuminated manuscript with the words of a prayer attributed to St. Francis of Assisi. Reading this prayer allows me to breathe deep and focus my efforts on what matters in life. Today at church this prayer was sung by a soloist and I was once again reminded of the power of these words. As we face a week of uncertainty, I thought it was worth sharing.
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.
Amen.
Peace be with you.
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.
Amen.
Peace be with you.
Monday, October 27, 2008
A Love Letter
Dear Bacon,
Sunday nights are a dismal dinner night in the Finnell household. We are usually scrambling to put a decent meal together after putting off going to the store during the weekend. Cereal and eggs are usually a sure bet. You must be well aware it’s Sunday by your empty surroundings in the fridge. Last night was no different as we put together some turkey sandwiches which were altogether boring and uninspired – simply a way to fill the stomach.
In a stroke of genius, we decided to fry you up and allow you to sit piggyback on our sandwiches. Bacon, you never let me down. You turned a utilitarian exercise of fending off hunger pangs into a pleasurable experience that I could do over and over again. Seriously, if my arteries wouldn’t object I would invite you over every night. You have a way of making things better. I know you get a lot of flack for your questionable health benefits (okay, so you have no health benefits) but you make up for it in sheer panache. You can turn a salad into an event; a sandwich into a party; and don’t even get me started on the virtues of your presence in pasta carbonara. I wish I could eat you all the time but perhaps I would tire of you. Plus, I kind of like my arteries free and clear. For now, I will enjoy you in moderation and savor every bite. Fortunately, a little of you goes a long way to make me happy.
Bacon, thanks for being the life of the party. You never fail to bring a lot to the table.
Your friend,
Edie
Sunday nights are a dismal dinner night in the Finnell household. We are usually scrambling to put a decent meal together after putting off going to the store during the weekend. Cereal and eggs are usually a sure bet. You must be well aware it’s Sunday by your empty surroundings in the fridge. Last night was no different as we put together some turkey sandwiches which were altogether boring and uninspired – simply a way to fill the stomach.
In a stroke of genius, we decided to fry you up and allow you to sit piggyback on our sandwiches. Bacon, you never let me down. You turned a utilitarian exercise of fending off hunger pangs into a pleasurable experience that I could do over and over again. Seriously, if my arteries wouldn’t object I would invite you over every night. You have a way of making things better. I know you get a lot of flack for your questionable health benefits (okay, so you have no health benefits) but you make up for it in sheer panache. You can turn a salad into an event; a sandwich into a party; and don’t even get me started on the virtues of your presence in pasta carbonara. I wish I could eat you all the time but perhaps I would tire of you. Plus, I kind of like my arteries free and clear. For now, I will enjoy you in moderation and savor every bite. Fortunately, a little of you goes a long way to make me happy.
Bacon, thanks for being the life of the party. You never fail to bring a lot to the table.
Your friend,
Edie
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Take Three
I'm sure many of you have been waiting with bated breath to see if I would succeed in my bread endeavors. I planned on blogging about my Friday baking but I had a bout with the stomach flu and didn't feel much like blogging (I could have blogged a great entry on saltines and Fresca - I'm a Frescaholic and I'm not sure there exists a more refreshing drink). Anyways, I finally succeeded.
I'd like to point out that I would not have succeeded without the King Arthur Flour Baker's Hotline. Yes, I called a baker's hotline and I know I'm a dork. But seriously, it's not like the art of bread baking is being passed down through generations anymore. Desperate times call for desperate measures, people. Laura at King Arthur saved me from one more disaster. She let me know the right consistency and how best to measure my flour. Baking bread may eventually become an art but for now it is serious science and I need all the help I can get. Thanks, Laura. If I could send a slice to Vermont I would do it.
Here's a little plug for King Arthur Flour. I first heard of this product when I moved to the Boston area. Dave and I visited a small church and I met a woman who told me one of the best things about living in New England was having access to King Arthur Flour. I thought, you've got to be kidding. Flour? Dave and I laughed about this comment afterward but we did end up buying a bag. It's great stuff and King Arthur's cookbooks are even better. Seriously, the oatmeal cookie and chocolate crinkle recipes in their Cookie Companion are worth the price of the book. You can find some great recipes at their web site, too, so stop by when you want to bake something special.
Fingers crossed...
We have lift-off
Can it rise again?
Oh yes it can.
Pass the butter. It may be on the ugly side but it is very tasty.
I'd like to point out that I would not have succeeded without the King Arthur Flour Baker's Hotline. Yes, I called a baker's hotline and I know I'm a dork. But seriously, it's not like the art of bread baking is being passed down through generations anymore. Desperate times call for desperate measures, people. Laura at King Arthur saved me from one more disaster. She let me know the right consistency and how best to measure my flour. Baking bread may eventually become an art but for now it is serious science and I need all the help I can get. Thanks, Laura. If I could send a slice to Vermont I would do it.
Here's a little plug for King Arthur Flour. I first heard of this product when I moved to the Boston area. Dave and I visited a small church and I met a woman who told me one of the best things about living in New England was having access to King Arthur Flour. I thought, you've got to be kidding. Flour? Dave and I laughed about this comment afterward but we did end up buying a bag. It's great stuff and King Arthur's cookbooks are even better. Seriously, the oatmeal cookie and chocolate crinkle recipes in their Cookie Companion are worth the price of the book. You can find some great recipes at their web site, too, so stop by when you want to bake something special.
Fingers crossed...
We have lift-off
Can it rise again?
Oh yes it can.
Pass the butter. It may be on the ugly side but it is very tasty.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Knight Rider
Last night, Knight Rider wasn't on TV. Instead of showing Mr. Michael Knight, our local NBC affiliate decided it would be a good idea to air the WA governor's debate immediately following the presidential debate. I like a good debate but FOUR HOURS of debates is a bit much.
But that's not my topic. My topic is Knight Rider. Dave started watching Knight Rider a few weeks ago and he is like a little kid about this show. It's a bit silly but quite endearing. Dave was a big Knight Rider fan as a kid. If there was a Trapper Keeper with Kitt on the cover I'm sure Dave had it. I haven't watched an episode of the new Knight Rider but it does bring back memories of having a small crush on fluffy haired David Hasselhoff. For the life of me I can't remember what Michael Knight and Kitt were trying to accomplish. Were they fighting crime? I really don't know. I only remember Mr. Hasselhoff in his tight jeans and black leather jacket talking into his watch. What a hottie.
I think Dave might stoop to watching episodes online. Seriously, if they make remakes of MacGyver and the A-Team I might never see my husband again.
Edited to add - Dave said he doesn't love the new Knight Rider as much as I think he does. Good to know.
But that's not my topic. My topic is Knight Rider. Dave started watching Knight Rider a few weeks ago and he is like a little kid about this show. It's a bit silly but quite endearing. Dave was a big Knight Rider fan as a kid. If there was a Trapper Keeper with Kitt on the cover I'm sure Dave had it. I haven't watched an episode of the new Knight Rider but it does bring back memories of having a small crush on fluffy haired David Hasselhoff. For the life of me I can't remember what Michael Knight and Kitt were trying to accomplish. Were they fighting crime? I really don't know. I only remember Mr. Hasselhoff in his tight jeans and black leather jacket talking into his watch. What a hottie.
I think Dave might stoop to watching episodes online. Seriously, if they make remakes of MacGyver and the A-Team I might never see my husband again.
Edited to add - Dave said he doesn't love the new Knight Rider as much as I think he does. Good to know.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Baking with Whole Grains, Take Two
I've been on a noble journey this week. I've spent the past two days trying to bake bread. There is something earthy and seductively simple about the art of baking bread and I've wanted to learn for years. Quite frankly, I've always been intimidated by it. I've pictured the act of breadmaking as a scientific experiment with multiple opportunities for failure and I am loathe to put a ton of time and energy into a culinary disaster. However, with prices of groceries going up I've decided it was time to learn to make my own bread.
I've tried two loaves this week. They've been disasters. The first loaf was supposed to rise over the top of my loaf pan and it only rose halfway. The second loaf rose a bit better but I fell asleep while it was baking and it burned. Certainly not my best move. But I'm not down and out yet. I've been pleasantly surprised that bread baking doesn't take the effort I thought it would involve. The dough does a lot of the work on its own and needs little attention. So that discovery alone is keeping me motivated. I'm going to try again on Friday. I have a recipe for Vermont Maple Oatmeal Sandwich Bread that is calling my name. Doesn't that sound perfect for fall? I'll let you know how it turns out. Hopefully better than this short and squatty loaf:
Wish me luck.
I've tried two loaves this week. They've been disasters. The first loaf was supposed to rise over the top of my loaf pan and it only rose halfway. The second loaf rose a bit better but I fell asleep while it was baking and it burned. Certainly not my best move. But I'm not down and out yet. I've been pleasantly surprised that bread baking doesn't take the effort I thought it would involve. The dough does a lot of the work on its own and needs little attention. So that discovery alone is keeping me motivated. I'm going to try again on Friday. I have a recipe for Vermont Maple Oatmeal Sandwich Bread that is calling my name. Doesn't that sound perfect for fall? I'll let you know how it turns out. Hopefully better than this short and squatty loaf:
Wish me luck.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Juxtaposition
AIG executives spend $440,000 at a weekend spa after company tanks and government bails them out.
90 year old woman shoots herself in her foreclosed home.
Unbridled greed and utter despair.
Power and powerlessness.
Not to diminish the sentiment of my earlier post but I don't think The Penderwicks can help ease the anger and sadness I feel in my gut right now.
90 year old woman shoots herself in her foreclosed home.
Unbridled greed and utter despair.
Power and powerlessness.
Not to diminish the sentiment of my earlier post but I don't think The Penderwicks can help ease the anger and sadness I feel in my gut right now.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Scary Times Call for Scarry Measures
Lately I've been a news junkie and Friday was an all-time low. I spent all day surfing between CNN.com, MSNBC.com and WSJ.com reading news about the bailout, the Citi-Wells-Wachovia brawl, and the VP debate summaries. Any free moment I had was spent at the computer reading much of what I already read or heard on the radio, waiting for anything new to come my way. Needless to say, I've felt pretty frazzled and incredibly cynical.
Enter I Am A Bunny.
We got Lucy a new book yesterday and she is obsessed with it. I Am A Bunny is illustrated by Richard Scarry and tells the story of a little bunny experiencing life during each season. Spring is filled with flowers and butterflies; summer with ripe berries, dandelions in the wind and sunshine; autumn with falling leaves and squirrels preparing for winter; winter with the falling snow and sleep. Lucy loves the book and I'm growing to love it, too. It calms me as I remember the goodness that can be found in nature and the predictability of the seasons. Reading this book is better than aromatherapy - it quiets me and the illustrations remind me of my own childhood.
So I've decided I'm going to balance my reading of the news with some children's and young adult literature for a little while. I'm not swearing off the news - I think it's incredibly important to be mindful of what is going on in the world. However, I need some balance and reminders of goodness right now. I've often turned to children's literature in times of uncertainty in my life simply because the purity of these stories comfort my soul. I've found that good children's literature often overflows with stories of hope without shying away from tragedy, inspiring readers with characters that are brimming with optimism and the unlimited potential to do good. Right now I want to be reminded of Bilbo's courage, Laura's determination and Meg's individualism. In a time when unpredictability reigns I want to balance the news with adventures that warm my soul with optimism, rather than reading another editorial where my worst fears are confirmed and my cynicism increases. Honestly, I'm not trying to put my head in the sand. But when fear and hopelessness seem to dominate the headlines it's good to be reminded that goodness and beauty are a part of this world, too.
Enter I Am A Bunny.
We got Lucy a new book yesterday and she is obsessed with it. I Am A Bunny is illustrated by Richard Scarry and tells the story of a little bunny experiencing life during each season. Spring is filled with flowers and butterflies; summer with ripe berries, dandelions in the wind and sunshine; autumn with falling leaves and squirrels preparing for winter; winter with the falling snow and sleep. Lucy loves the book and I'm growing to love it, too. It calms me as I remember the goodness that can be found in nature and the predictability of the seasons. Reading this book is better than aromatherapy - it quiets me and the illustrations remind me of my own childhood.
So I've decided I'm going to balance my reading of the news with some children's and young adult literature for a little while. I'm not swearing off the news - I think it's incredibly important to be mindful of what is going on in the world. However, I need some balance and reminders of goodness right now. I've often turned to children's literature in times of uncertainty in my life simply because the purity of these stories comfort my soul. I've found that good children's literature often overflows with stories of hope without shying away from tragedy, inspiring readers with characters that are brimming with optimism and the unlimited potential to do good. Right now I want to be reminded of Bilbo's courage, Laura's determination and Meg's individualism. In a time when unpredictability reigns I want to balance the news with adventures that warm my soul with optimism, rather than reading another editorial where my worst fears are confirmed and my cynicism increases. Honestly, I'm not trying to put my head in the sand. But when fear and hopelessness seem to dominate the headlines it's good to be reminded that goodness and beauty are a part of this world, too.
An Observation While Driving
When a car pulls in front of me with a fish on the back I do not think, Oh, look, there's a Christian. Rather, my thought process is usually more like, This car is going to drive at or below the speed limit. Time to change lanes.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Travel Lowlights
It's good to be home. Two weeks of living out of a suitcase with a toddler is fun for only so long. We had a good time and were able to visit friends and family and friends who are like family. It was good but I'd love to share a few lowlights from the trip:
Lowlight #1 - The Airport
Lucy and I left on Monday morning at 5 AM. My mind doesn't function so well at this hour and I neglected to grab any cash. Bad move. Heed my words - ALWAYS TRAVEL WITH CASH. We got to the long-term parking lot and I realized my misstep. So I'm able to gather enough quarters to give the shuttle driver an adequate tip (yeah, I felt incredibly lame passing off a handful of quarters but money is money, right?). At the airport drop off I realize I have no cash for the cash-only smart cart machine. So what do I do? I become a human pack mule. I managed to carry Lucy in a front-pack, my diaper bag as a backpack, Lucy's car seat, a rolling duffel bag and a pack n play about a quarter mile to the ticket counter. I know people were looking at me thinking either of the following: Glad it's not me and/or Why the hell doesn't that lady get a smart cart? Did I feel slightly empowered that I could do it all myself? A little. Did I look like a complete idiot? Most definitely. Did I care once I successfully checked in? Not in the slightest.
Lowlight #2 - Thursday at Diane's
Lucy and I arrived at Diane's place on Tuesday evening and had a great time hanging out on Wednesday. Diane went back to work and I planned to visit my friend, Karen, in San Ramon on Thursday. I woke up with a little bit of pain in my lower back but I took some ibuprofen and thought little of it. As I got packed I realize my posture was getting worse and worse but again, I thought very little of it. I walked into the hallway to get Lucy and my back completely gave out. I collapsed and was in some serious pain, probably due to lowlight numero uno. Luckily, I collapsed with my cell phone in my pocket. I was able to calmly call Diane and she said she would be home in a half hour to help. Unfortunately, I couldn't get any network to call anyone else. So I found myself sliding on my back throughout Diane's apartment in order to get reception to call my friend, Karen, and my brother-in-law, Doug, who is a firefighter/EMT for advice. That moment was made for a Verizon commercial as I slid over rugs and around tables while cursing T Mobile. I must say I was quite thankful for her wood floors which made the sliding much easier. Lucy also took things in stride. I thought that the loud thud from my fall would scare her but no. Mom down = instant jungle gym. Trying to keep Lucy from standing on my mid-section while having back spasms was less than easy but at least she was happy.
Because I couldn't walk very well for a few days our plans to see San Francisco kinda fizzled, but we had a great time being with Diane and Brian. I must say that I'm incredible grateful to Diane who took the day off work to take care of Lucy while I was incapacitated. It is hard to feel completely helpless when you're not in your normal surroundings but Diane made it easy to depend on her which says a lot about her graciousness and care.
In spite of the lowlights it was a fun trip. We were able to spend a few days with my college roommate, Lisa, which was great fun. We got to bring in some of the summer harvest out of Lisa's garden and Lucy had a ball digging in the dirt and taking bites out of tomatoes (I wish I had pictures but I failed to take my camera anywhere). We watched lots of football and had many good conversations while eating copious amounts of good food. All in all, the trip wasn't at all restful and maybe it didn't go quite as planned but we got to be with people we love and that was what mattered.
Lowlight #1 - The Airport
Lucy and I left on Monday morning at 5 AM. My mind doesn't function so well at this hour and I neglected to grab any cash. Bad move. Heed my words - ALWAYS TRAVEL WITH CASH. We got to the long-term parking lot and I realized my misstep. So I'm able to gather enough quarters to give the shuttle driver an adequate tip (yeah, I felt incredibly lame passing off a handful of quarters but money is money, right?). At the airport drop off I realize I have no cash for the cash-only smart cart machine. So what do I do? I become a human pack mule. I managed to carry Lucy in a front-pack, my diaper bag as a backpack, Lucy's car seat, a rolling duffel bag and a pack n play about a quarter mile to the ticket counter. I know people were looking at me thinking either of the following: Glad it's not me and/or Why the hell doesn't that lady get a smart cart? Did I feel slightly empowered that I could do it all myself? A little. Did I look like a complete idiot? Most definitely. Did I care once I successfully checked in? Not in the slightest.
Lowlight #2 - Thursday at Diane's
Lucy and I arrived at Diane's place on Tuesday evening and had a great time hanging out on Wednesday. Diane went back to work and I planned to visit my friend, Karen, in San Ramon on Thursday. I woke up with a little bit of pain in my lower back but I took some ibuprofen and thought little of it. As I got packed I realize my posture was getting worse and worse but again, I thought very little of it. I walked into the hallway to get Lucy and my back completely gave out. I collapsed and was in some serious pain, probably due to lowlight numero uno. Luckily, I collapsed with my cell phone in my pocket. I was able to calmly call Diane and she said she would be home in a half hour to help. Unfortunately, I couldn't get any network to call anyone else. So I found myself sliding on my back throughout Diane's apartment in order to get reception to call my friend, Karen, and my brother-in-law, Doug, who is a firefighter/EMT for advice. That moment was made for a Verizon commercial as I slid over rugs and around tables while cursing T Mobile. I must say I was quite thankful for her wood floors which made the sliding much easier. Lucy also took things in stride. I thought that the loud thud from my fall would scare her but no. Mom down = instant jungle gym. Trying to keep Lucy from standing on my mid-section while having back spasms was less than easy but at least she was happy.
Because I couldn't walk very well for a few days our plans to see San Francisco kinda fizzled, but we had a great time being with Diane and Brian. I must say that I'm incredible grateful to Diane who took the day off work to take care of Lucy while I was incapacitated. It is hard to feel completely helpless when you're not in your normal surroundings but Diane made it easy to depend on her which says a lot about her graciousness and care.
In spite of the lowlights it was a fun trip. We were able to spend a few days with my college roommate, Lisa, which was great fun. We got to bring in some of the summer harvest out of Lisa's garden and Lucy had a ball digging in the dirt and taking bites out of tomatoes (I wish I had pictures but I failed to take my camera anywhere). We watched lots of football and had many good conversations while eating copious amounts of good food. All in all, the trip wasn't at all restful and maybe it didn't go quite as planned but we got to be with people we love and that was what mattered.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Vacation
I should be packing right now. But am I? No. Because the computer is the devil and I get so sucked into blogs and facebook and nifty web sites that I can't get anything done. I think to myself, "I'll just sit down for one minute and check facebook." Yeah, it's thirty minutes later and I'm still here. And I'm sure none of you out there can relate. Luckily, I'm going to be on a computer hiatus for a while. Lucy and I are leaving for two weeks at the crack of dawn tomorrow morning. One week in AZ and the following week in San Francisco. So far, Lucy has been a great little traveler and I hope that continues to hold true. Hopefully, I'll have some pictures to show post-vacation but in the meantime, here's some recent Lucy pics that I had to share.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Come and Sit
Dave and I recently watched Lars and the Real Girl. I realize we are a little late to the game on this one but let me be one more person to say that this is a great movie and well worth your time. There is a scene in the movie that I’ve been continuing to think about. Tragedy strikes and a few older women come to be with Lars. “We came to sit,” one of the ladies explains. “That’s what people do when tragedy strikes -- they come and sit.” It’s hard for me to think about that line without getting a bit emotional. It seems very passive but it’s such a powerful act. In essence, we’ve come to sit with you, to be with you, to share in your suffering and not allow you to be alone in your pain.
I am reminded that this isn’t anything new, this “sitting”. In the book of Job, Job’s friends sat with him and it led to a very different result as his friends expanded their role from sitting to offering explanations to the cause of Job’s suffering, a surefire recipe for disaster. But it’s the last chapter of Job that intrigues me. Job is blessed double after his ordeal, which is usually where we end the story in a kind of “Job lived happily ever after” fashion. And yet, the writer makes mention immediately after this blessing that Job’s sisters and brothers and all who had known him came and ate with him, showed sympathy to him and comforted him. In spite of this tremendous blessing, Job still was in need of comfort and healing. Blessing does not erase the pain and suffering of loss, even if we are overjoyed at its arrival. The sitting is still necessary.
If I had watched Lars and the Real Girl five years ago I doubt this scene would have made much of an impression. In fact, I may have thought older church ladies bringing casseroles and knitting as pretty insignificant. But having been on the receiving end of such a grace as this, I think much differently. Now I’m struck by the power of an active and healing work that comes when people have the courage to sit in silence with the pain of those who suffer. It takes courage to be with those who grieve and to share with people in their darkest moments of anger and despair. To “come and sit” may be one of the most powerful modes of healing during those times when words inevitably fall short. This type of being with is anything but insignificant. If anything it is a gift of grace that transforms and renews over time.
So I sit here with feelings of gratitude for that shared space that becomes sacred when people are willing to come and sit; and thankful for those in our lives who have sat with us and allowed us to share the same story over and over again simply because “that’s what people do.”
I am reminded that this isn’t anything new, this “sitting”. In the book of Job, Job’s friends sat with him and it led to a very different result as his friends expanded their role from sitting to offering explanations to the cause of Job’s suffering, a surefire recipe for disaster. But it’s the last chapter of Job that intrigues me. Job is blessed double after his ordeal, which is usually where we end the story in a kind of “Job lived happily ever after” fashion. And yet, the writer makes mention immediately after this blessing that Job’s sisters and brothers and all who had known him came and ate with him, showed sympathy to him and comforted him. In spite of this tremendous blessing, Job still was in need of comfort and healing. Blessing does not erase the pain and suffering of loss, even if we are overjoyed at its arrival. The sitting is still necessary.
If I had watched Lars and the Real Girl five years ago I doubt this scene would have made much of an impression. In fact, I may have thought older church ladies bringing casseroles and knitting as pretty insignificant. But having been on the receiving end of such a grace as this, I think much differently. Now I’m struck by the power of an active and healing work that comes when people have the courage to sit in silence with the pain of those who suffer. It takes courage to be with those who grieve and to share with people in their darkest moments of anger and despair. To “come and sit” may be one of the most powerful modes of healing during those times when words inevitably fall short. This type of being with is anything but insignificant. If anything it is a gift of grace that transforms and renews over time.
So I sit here with feelings of gratitude for that shared space that becomes sacred when people are willing to come and sit; and thankful for those in our lives who have sat with us and allowed us to share the same story over and over again simply because “that’s what people do.”
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Well Said
With the news of Bristol Palin's pregnancy all over the media, I have to say that Barack Obama's response is worth noting:
"Let me be as clear as possible," Obama said. "I think people's families are off-limits, and people's children are especially off-limits. This shouldn't be part of our politics. It has no relevance to Gov. Palin's performance as governor or her potential performance as a vice president."
Obama said reporters should "back off these kinds of stories" and noted that he was born to an 18-year-old mother.
"How a family deals with issues and teenage children, that shouldn't be the topic of our politics, and I hope that anybody who is supporting me understands that's off-limits." (from CNN.com)
Well said.
"Let me be as clear as possible," Obama said. "I think people's families are off-limits, and people's children are especially off-limits. This shouldn't be part of our politics. It has no relevance to Gov. Palin's performance as governor or her potential performance as a vice president."
Obama said reporters should "back off these kinds of stories" and noted that he was born to an 18-year-old mother.
"How a family deals with issues and teenage children, that shouldn't be the topic of our politics, and I hope that anybody who is supporting me understands that's off-limits." (from CNN.com)
Well said.
Let Them Eat Cake...Or Not
As I've mentioned previously, I love to bake. Everyone has hobbies they enjoy and this has become one of my favorite pastimes. This week I thought I would try an upside-down nectarine cake made with whole grains. I had some nectarines on hand and thought this would be a great recipe to try. Isn’t it pretty? I think so. Too bad it tasted like crap.
This was my first foray into the land of whole grain dessert baking. This cake used whole wheat pastry flour and unrefined sugars and I had high hopes. As I put the pan in the oven I envisioned a blog post about my new adventures in baking with whole grains and the decadent results. Come to think of it, maybe if you start writing a blog post in your head before something actually happens you are begging for disaster. Maybe this doomed me from the start. But I digress. As I pulled the cake out of the oven and the scent of cinnamon wafted through the air I was already counting this as a baking triumph – until the first awful bite. This cake was dry. Like Sahara desert, pass me a litre of water so I can choke this puppy down dry. Like my husband is cracking up laughing because it’s so terrible dry. I’m sad to say that a good portion of the cake ended up in the trash and cake should never end up in the trash. It was that bad.
I’m a little discouraged but I’m not out yet. I’m hoping that baking with whole grains will make me feel better about serving baked goods to my family but on some level I think a dessert is a dessert is a dessert. Still, I’m on a mission here. Whole grains, I will conquer you. Next up – bread.
I’ll keep you posted.
Friday, August 29, 2008
First Day
It's an exciting day at the Finnell's. Dave started his new job today. He has been a bit giddy about the whole thing and it's supercute. Dave will be working at Wells Fargo in their Corporate Banking Division as an analyst. It's pretty much his ideal job. To sum it up (because I don't understand most of what he will be doing), Dave will get paid to read the Wall Street Journal. And I'm sure he will do some other stuff, too, but that stands out in my mind.
This position is the culmination of a lot of hard work and sacrifice - working full-time, going to school, balancing family responsibilties - it hasn't been easy. But through all the stress, Dave has always handled himself with graciousness and gentleness coupled with a great wit. I'm so grateful to see all his effort pay off into a position that makes him excited about the possibilities and challenges ahead. Life is good.
Plus, he looks wicked good in his dress shirts.
You're the best, Munchie!!
This position is the culmination of a lot of hard work and sacrifice - working full-time, going to school, balancing family responsibilties - it hasn't been easy. But through all the stress, Dave has always handled himself with graciousness and gentleness coupled with a great wit. I'm so grateful to see all his effort pay off into a position that makes him excited about the possibilities and challenges ahead. Life is good.
Plus, he looks wicked good in his dress shirts.
You're the best, Munchie!!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Random Breakfast Musings
Carbs should not be touted as breakfast food. Cereal has been out of the running as a breakfast choice in the Finnell house for quite some time. Do you want to feel like you haven't eaten for three days at 9AM? Go ahead - you go for those Cheerios. Your attempt at early morning restraint will be shattered when you need that Egg McMuffin at 10. But for some reason I thought pancakes would deliver and carry me hunger free until lunch. Not so. I made blueberry pancakes this morning (and no, this is not a normal weekday occurence) and by 9:15 I might as well have eaten puffed air on a plate. Granted, we ate breakfast at 6:30 but surely pancakes have more staying power than that? Nope, they don't. This business of eating multiple breakfasts in order to make it to lunch is beginning to make me feel like a hobbit. From now on, carbs must be coupled with protein.
Bacon gets my vote.
Bacon gets my vote.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Lucy's Musical Tastes
Many children love to hear their parents sing. In following the sage advice of most parenting books, we've sang lots of tunes - Old MacDonald, This Old Man, Where is Thumbkin - we've covered them all over the course of Lucy's life. In fact, singing Wheels on the Bus was the one thing we could do to calm Lucy in the car when she was a newborn.
Those days are over. And I'll tell you why.
During last season's American Idol, my dear friend Kristen made me a CD with a selection of songs performed by Carly Smithson. Lucy LOVES Carly. She could listen to Carly's performance of Blackbird by the Beatles all day long. In fact, if she's upset all I have to do is say, "Let's play the Blackbird song" and Lucy gets positively giddy. It's quite cute.
Here's the problem.
In a nutshell, if you aren't good enough to get a recording contract Lucy wants nothing to do with you. And I mean, nothing. It started off kind of cute. Dave would sing along with Blackbird and Lucy would vigorously shake her head "NO." I mean, who can blame her? Who wants their favorite song ruined by someone singing along in the car ? But this week I would sing to her some silly songs and she would shake her head "NO." I thought she might not be serious. Until yesterday morning when I sang The Wheels on the Bus and she began to shake her head and cry. And not like I-Want-A-Different-Song Cry. More like Mama-You're-Hurting-My-Ears Cry. Talk about your all-time confidence boosters.
I'm trying to comfort myself with the fact my daughter has distinct musical preferences. But I'd be lying if I didn't admit it's a little discouraging when your daughter prefers silence to the sound of your singing voice.
Those days are over. And I'll tell you why.
During last season's American Idol, my dear friend Kristen made me a CD with a selection of songs performed by Carly Smithson. Lucy LOVES Carly. She could listen to Carly's performance of Blackbird by the Beatles all day long. In fact, if she's upset all I have to do is say, "Let's play the Blackbird song" and Lucy gets positively giddy. It's quite cute.
Here's the problem.
In a nutshell, if you aren't good enough to get a recording contract Lucy wants nothing to do with you. And I mean, nothing. It started off kind of cute. Dave would sing along with Blackbird and Lucy would vigorously shake her head "NO." I mean, who can blame her? Who wants their favorite song ruined by someone singing along in the car ? But this week I would sing to her some silly songs and she would shake her head "NO." I thought she might not be serious. Until yesterday morning when I sang The Wheels on the Bus and she began to shake her head and cry. And not like I-Want-A-Different-Song Cry. More like Mama-You're-Hurting-My-Ears Cry. Talk about your all-time confidence boosters.
I'm trying to comfort myself with the fact my daughter has distinct musical preferences. But I'd be lying if I didn't admit it's a little discouraging when your daughter prefers silence to the sound of your singing voice.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
I'd Love Some Advice
Inflation pretty much sucks. We've been good about cutting our gas bill but our grocery bill is climbing higher and higher. I've tried different methods to cut down our costs: getting staples at Trader Joes, buying things in bulk at Costco, purchasing flour and spices in the bulk section at my local market. I've tried different meal planning methods like making a breakfast for dinner one night a week (cheap and fast) or making a pot of soup at the beginning of the week that will last several days. But I have no rhyme or reason to what I'm doing - I'm not even sure if my methods are effective - and I will be the first to admit that I'm not the best at creating a system. So I'd like to put this question out there to the blogosphere. Is there anything working for you in cutting down your grocery bill? If so, please share. I'm all ears.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Post-Pancake Vent
Yesterday morning we went out for breakfast. There are few things I love more than a bottomless mug of diner coffee, especially when our cupboards are pretty bare and we only have decaf. During the course of our breakfast, I couldn't help but overhear an interction of a neighboring table of patrons with our server. Apparently, our server forgot to bring out hash browns, which were included in their meal. He quickly apologized and brought out the missing potatoes and mentioned he thought they wanted something else. After he left, this couple launched into our server, complaining about his missteps along the way and how he should have known better.
Listening to them was ugly, which is a lame description but it's the one word that kept coming to mind. Ugly.They sounded so unattractive. And I couldn't help but think of times in the past where I've been uncharitable, which made me feel pretty low.
I was reminded of the book Nickel and Dimed by Barbara Ehrenreich (a great read, btw) where she writes about how Sunday mornings were the worst times to wait tables because the church goers were notoriously rude and cheap. Now I don't think church goers have a complete monopoly on rudeness to the service industry but it does make me wonder why that happens. Why can we be so gracious with our friends and acquaintances but so exacting and demanding to people in customer service? How is this okay, especially when many in this industry are probably struggling to eek out a living?
So to my companions at my local diner, I'd like to say that I know it's easy to be critical (see, I'm doing it now). Being gracious is hard when expectations aren't met. But regardless of how poor a job you may feel your server is doing, everyone deserves kindness and respect. So the next time your server forgets your fries, let your server know and leave it at that. There's no need for an editorial about his or her job performance. And repaying a mistake with kindness might even make you feel better about yourself, too.
Listening to them was ugly, which is a lame description but it's the one word that kept coming to mind. Ugly.They sounded so unattractive. And I couldn't help but think of times in the past where I've been uncharitable, which made me feel pretty low.
I was reminded of the book Nickel and Dimed by Barbara Ehrenreich (a great read, btw) where she writes about how Sunday mornings were the worst times to wait tables because the church goers were notoriously rude and cheap. Now I don't think church goers have a complete monopoly on rudeness to the service industry but it does make me wonder why that happens. Why can we be so gracious with our friends and acquaintances but so exacting and demanding to people in customer service? How is this okay, especially when many in this industry are probably struggling to eek out a living?
So to my companions at my local diner, I'd like to say that I know it's easy to be critical (see, I'm doing it now). Being gracious is hard when expectations aren't met. But regardless of how poor a job you may feel your server is doing, everyone deserves kindness and respect. So the next time your server forgets your fries, let your server know and leave it at that. There's no need for an editorial about his or her job performance. And repaying a mistake with kindness might even make you feel better about yourself, too.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Summer Favorites
I shared with you the Wheel of Fortune addiction. Since I'm in a sharing mood, let me share a few more of my recent favorites.
I can't get enough of this album. It's mellow and soulful and her songs leave me with a lump in my throat. And somehow it's the perfect album for the lazy days of summer. Lucy is beginning to be a fan and that's a very good thing. Oh, and I'm usually way behind the times so if this album is wildly popular and I sound like the kid who discovered Nirvana in 1995, indulge me.
Kettle Chips. Yogurt and Green Onion flavor, to be exact. These chips are fantastic. Granted, they give you the breath of death but it's so worth it. They've been on sale for the last two weeks at my local grocery store and I'm grateful they will no longer be on sale tomorrow. I may be coming clean but there's no way I'll tell you how many of these chips I've consumed over the past couple weeks. I will say that I will no longer miss hearing Dave lament, "Did you finish off another bag, AGAIN?" (And for the record, Dave, I much prefer, "Have you seen the Kettle Chips?" We both know I lost all self-control and stuffed my face but the latter sounds much more optimistic).
Get yourself some Kettle chips, a frosty beverage, download some Lizz Wright and enjoy a summer evening. You can thank me later.
I can't get enough of this album. It's mellow and soulful and her songs leave me with a lump in my throat. And somehow it's the perfect album for the lazy days of summer. Lucy is beginning to be a fan and that's a very good thing. Oh, and I'm usually way behind the times so if this album is wildly popular and I sound like the kid who discovered Nirvana in 1995, indulge me.
Kettle Chips. Yogurt and Green Onion flavor, to be exact. These chips are fantastic. Granted, they give you the breath of death but it's so worth it. They've been on sale for the last two weeks at my local grocery store and I'm grateful they will no longer be on sale tomorrow. I may be coming clean but there's no way I'll tell you how many of these chips I've consumed over the past couple weeks. I will say that I will no longer miss hearing Dave lament, "Did you finish off another bag, AGAIN?" (And for the record, Dave, I much prefer, "Have you seen the Kettle Chips?" We both know I lost all self-control and stuffed my face but the latter sounds much more optimistic).
Get yourself some Kettle chips, a frosty beverage, download some Lizz Wright and enjoy a summer evening. You can thank me later.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Procrastination
Do you procrastinate? Are you one of those people under the false delusion that your best work happens the night before a deadline? If so, stop kidding yourself and read this article. Embrace your inability to work ahead of the game.
Monday, August 11, 2008
My 7PM Addiction
I have a confession to make. I have officially become my grandma. I am a Wheel Watcher.
It happened gradually. Putting Lucy down to sleep used to be such an exhausting process that Dave and I would melt onto the couch and need a few minutes to veg. Since we don't have cable, the choices at 7PM are pretty limited to celebrity news magazines and, you guessed it, Wheel of Fortune.
Guess what we chose?
I realize that having the official game show of the AARP on most nights hardly makes our living room a bastion of coolness. I mean, what about shows like Mad Men? Lost? The Wire? Those shows are hip while Wheel of Fortune is decidedly uncool. I mean, my grandma has been a faithful watcher for years. Remember the days of post-puzzle shopping where winners walked away with rattan dining sets and gold jaguar broach pins? Yeah, she watched it back then. So I recognize there is a low coolness factor. But I gotta tell you, it's so entertaining. On any given night you can hear either Dave or I saying things like:
"That Pat - what a kidder."
"Don't you know better than to pick "M" in the bonus round? C'mon, people, don't you watch this show??"
And before the final spin, "C'MON $5000, C'MON $5000!!!!" (seriously, every night this spews from my mouth - I really can't control it anymore)
This half hour we spend in front of the television has become somewhat of a ritual (did I just write the word "ritual" in regard to Wheel of Fortune??). I love the prize puzzles. I love trying to solve the puzzles before Dave. And I love it most of all when each of the contestants walk away with a nice sum of cash (I'm a game show socialist - share the wealth, I say). Wheel of Fortune is pretty unpretentious in today's greedy game show world. No one is going to be able to retire with their winnings or buy a house outright, but I think that makes me like it more as there is less angst when people lose. During the summer there are re-runs and I do draw the line at watching Wheel of Fortune episodes more than once. But come September, while others may be excited about new shows in prime time I'll be reunited with my old friends, Pat and Vanna, cheering for some "big money" as the wheel goes round. Listen to grandma, people. She's got good taste.
It happened gradually. Putting Lucy down to sleep used to be such an exhausting process that Dave and I would melt onto the couch and need a few minutes to veg. Since we don't have cable, the choices at 7PM are pretty limited to celebrity news magazines and, you guessed it, Wheel of Fortune.
Guess what we chose?
I realize that having the official game show of the AARP on most nights hardly makes our living room a bastion of coolness. I mean, what about shows like Mad Men? Lost? The Wire? Those shows are hip while Wheel of Fortune is decidedly uncool. I mean, my grandma has been a faithful watcher for years. Remember the days of post-puzzle shopping where winners walked away with rattan dining sets and gold jaguar broach pins? Yeah, she watched it back then. So I recognize there is a low coolness factor. But I gotta tell you, it's so entertaining. On any given night you can hear either Dave or I saying things like:
"That Pat - what a kidder."
"Don't you know better than to pick "M" in the bonus round? C'mon, people, don't you watch this show??"
And before the final spin, "C'MON $5000, C'MON $5000!!!!" (seriously, every night this spews from my mouth - I really can't control it anymore)
This half hour we spend in front of the television has become somewhat of a ritual (did I just write the word "ritual" in regard to Wheel of Fortune??). I love the prize puzzles. I love trying to solve the puzzles before Dave. And I love it most of all when each of the contestants walk away with a nice sum of cash (I'm a game show socialist - share the wealth, I say). Wheel of Fortune is pretty unpretentious in today's greedy game show world. No one is going to be able to retire with their winnings or buy a house outright, but I think that makes me like it more as there is less angst when people lose. During the summer there are re-runs and I do draw the line at watching Wheel of Fortune episodes more than once. But come September, while others may be excited about new shows in prime time I'll be reunited with my old friends, Pat and Vanna, cheering for some "big money" as the wheel goes round. Listen to grandma, people. She's got good taste.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Washington Primary Reading
There is nothing quite like reading the WA Voters' Pamphlet before the primaries. Let's face it, the post-primary candidates are trying so hard to be moderate that they can come across as quite dull, which makes for boring reading. But before the primaries? The mix of candidates are eclectic and opinionated with candidate statements that make you sit up and take notice. I mean, where would Washington be without the candidate who wants to amend the Constitution so the War Power Act will be delegated by the state legislatures instead of Congress? Or the candidate who has invented an air engine that allows an automobile to operate solely on air? And don't forget the candidate who has taken to calling our governor, Christine"The Cover-Up Queen" Gregoire. But my personal favorite? Hold onto your spaceboots, people. My favorite is none other than Goodspaceguy Nelson. Yes, that's right, Goodspaceguy. And what is his platform? Ironically, Goodspaceguy wants to colonize space, starting with colonies in the Earth's orbit and moving later to the orbits of the Moon and Mars. Oh, and he also "wants tall buildings and more movies to be made in Washington State," but I'm sure that's secondary to the space stuff. I'm not sure he'll be a good fit for D.C. but I'm quite sure he would be the life of the party.
It's pretty significant that we live in a place where so many people can put their hats into the political arena. And even though most of the more unorthodox candidates have no chance in our current party system, I appreciate people who have the courage to go out on a limb when they know deep inside they can't win. So I gotta say to the more eclectic candidates out there running for office, thanks for putting yourself out there and making your not-so-mainstream ideas public knowledge. I may have had a chuckle or two at your expense but I sincerely admire your determination and conviction.
The moral of this post is read your state's voters' pamphlet if you haven't already. You'll be glad you did.
It's pretty significant that we live in a place where so many people can put their hats into the political arena. And even though most of the more unorthodox candidates have no chance in our current party system, I appreciate people who have the courage to go out on a limb when they know deep inside they can't win. So I gotta say to the more eclectic candidates out there running for office, thanks for putting yourself out there and making your not-so-mainstream ideas public knowledge. I may have had a chuckle or two at your expense but I sincerely admire your determination and conviction.
The moral of this post is read your state's voters' pamphlet if you haven't already. You'll be glad you did.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Vacation is Over
We are back. I've delayed posting because I have a bit of the post-vacation blues. Our bags are unpacked, laundry is close to being done, Dave is back at work, Lucy is adjusting to the time change, yada, yada, yada. We had a wonderful time. I'm not one to get my hopes up for a vacation - I'd rather just roll with it and see how things turn out. This trip exceeded any expectations we might have had and more. We were with two other families that have been our friends for ten years now. It was wonderful to connect with them and talk late into the night about our lives with honesty about where our joys and disappointments have taken us. And to do that in New England - where our friendships began - that was significant and special.
We saw a lot of our favorite sights and spent time in Boston, the North Shore and Portsmouth, NH. It was hot and humid but not unbearable. There was a lot of journeying down memory lane and remembering significant (and not so significant) events as we visited some of our favorite haunts. The highlight of the trip was standing with our dear friends Andrew and Megan (alongside Greg and Christine) as they baptized their two daughters, Lorien and Eden. The richness of the liturgy and the substance of our relationships made us realize how friendship is such a mercy in life. There was much to celebrate and we certainly did our best in that department.
So now we're back and I'm missing that special time in my life when I had dear friends in such close proximity that no planning was necessary and an unexpected knock on the door was always welcome. This new chapter of staying at home is filled with joy but it is often coupled with loneliness, which is only heightened when remembering what community in proximity looked like; where our neighbors were also some of our dearest friends. I'm sure things will settle in the next couple of days but for now I'm filled with a lot of memories that are bittersweet - gratitude for what we had and a little sadness for what we have left behind.
With that somewhat melancholy introduction, I give you some pics:
Portsmouth, NH. One of my favorite places to visit.
More Portsmouth. It's so quaint and laid back. Maybe I'll live here someday...
Singing Beach.
Dunkin Donuts coffee in Boston. It's addictive. I will only drink it in Boston (it's gross elsewhere) and I can't get enough. I drank an obscene amount in the course of six days and loved every drop.
At The Common Man in New Hampshire. A longtime favorite with a rustic feel and terrific food.
Ah, the North End. Let's eat.
Lucy loves lasagna. I mean, LOVE.
Dinners on the deck outdoors - so nice.
We saw a lot of our favorite sights and spent time in Boston, the North Shore and Portsmouth, NH. It was hot and humid but not unbearable. There was a lot of journeying down memory lane and remembering significant (and not so significant) events as we visited some of our favorite haunts. The highlight of the trip was standing with our dear friends Andrew and Megan (alongside Greg and Christine) as they baptized their two daughters, Lorien and Eden. The richness of the liturgy and the substance of our relationships made us realize how friendship is such a mercy in life. There was much to celebrate and we certainly did our best in that department.
So now we're back and I'm missing that special time in my life when I had dear friends in such close proximity that no planning was necessary and an unexpected knock on the door was always welcome. This new chapter of staying at home is filled with joy but it is often coupled with loneliness, which is only heightened when remembering what community in proximity looked like; where our neighbors were also some of our dearest friends. I'm sure things will settle in the next couple of days but for now I'm filled with a lot of memories that are bittersweet - gratitude for what we had and a little sadness for what we have left behind.
With that somewhat melancholy introduction, I give you some pics:
Portsmouth, NH. One of my favorite places to visit.
More Portsmouth. It's so quaint and laid back. Maybe I'll live here someday...
Singing Beach.
Dunkin Donuts coffee in Boston. It's addictive. I will only drink it in Boston (it's gross elsewhere) and I can't get enough. I drank an obscene amount in the course of six days and loved every drop.
At The Common Man in New Hampshire. A longtime favorite with a rustic feel and terrific food.
Ah, the North End. Let's eat.
Lucy loves lasagna. I mean, LOVE.
Dinners on the deck outdoors - so nice.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Boston Bound
We're off to Boston for a week of vacation. We have been looking forward to this trip for months. I've even convinced myself that the 7 hour plane trip won't be so bad. So, with that I bid you farewell and in the immortal words of Boston's common man, "Yankees Suck."
Monday, July 21, 2008
Weekend Getaway
Dave and I took a quick weekend trip to Coeur d'Alene to attend my cousin's wedding. I'd like to share two tips I learned over the weekend. The first I read in a magazine and the second I learned from experience.
1. If you are flying with a VERY squirmy small child that is prone to sleep deprivation induced outbursts, offer to buy your unfortunate seatmate a drink. This nice gesture can give you a comrade for the journey. Even if your seatmate doesn't take you up on the offer, the gesture alone acknowledges that this is a less than ideal situation for your seatmate and people just like that kind of acknowledgement. If this is a long flight (and we learned that 36 minutes is LONG) get one for yourself, too, and have a toast.
2. If you want your small child to be in good spirits for an evening wedding, do not keep your small child up two hours past their bedtime at the rehearsal dinner. Even when your family members remark on how great your child is doing being up so late, do not be deceived. Your child is NOT doing well and will let you know the following evening at the wedding. Good times.
Hope these little nuggets can be helpful to someone out there.
1. If you are flying with a VERY squirmy small child that is prone to sleep deprivation induced outbursts, offer to buy your unfortunate seatmate a drink. This nice gesture can give you a comrade for the journey. Even if your seatmate doesn't take you up on the offer, the gesture alone acknowledges that this is a less than ideal situation for your seatmate and people just like that kind of acknowledgement. If this is a long flight (and we learned that 36 minutes is LONG) get one for yourself, too, and have a toast.
2. If you want your small child to be in good spirits for an evening wedding, do not keep your small child up two hours past their bedtime at the rehearsal dinner. Even when your family members remark on how great your child is doing being up so late, do not be deceived. Your child is NOT doing well and will let you know the following evening at the wedding. Good times.
Hope these little nuggets can be helpful to someone out there.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Belly Beauty
So there is a commercial on tv that drives me crazy. It’s for some stretch mark cream and begins saying, “pregnancy is a beautiful thing.” Enter tone change. “But it can leave ugly stretch marks.” Ugly? Did I hear that right?
I beg to differ, or at least I want to anyways.
My lower abdomen is covered with marks and the days of the two-piece suit are quite over. If I do a sit-up it looks like there’s a little man smiling at me with my belly button as his open mouth. But I’m trying not to see them as ugly. They are a part of my history and they tell a story. With Lucy, my 28 week appointment showed her growth as below the 10th percentile and the doctors worried they would need to take her early. I began going to weekly appointments with ultrasounds and non-stress tests to make sure she was okay. It goes without saying that we were anxious and we wanted so badly to be able to just relax and enjoy the pregnancy. But at 36 weeks, Lucy jumped in growth, going from the 9th to 38th percentile. We were estatic and relieved. And that quick growth left behind bright red stretch marks that looked like I’d been clawed by a wild cat. But honestly, I really didn’t care at that point.
Now that swimsuit season is in full swing, I find myself caring. And it makes me angry that I struggle with caring. Really, shouldn’t these lines be embraced? They tell of story of love, of loss, of sacrifice, of beauty, and pain. They are a reminder of my identity, my history, and my present responsibilty. But sadly, their story can be easily negated by the desire to fit into our culture’s understanding of beauty. The fact that many would make unheard of sacrifices to see these marks on their own bodies is forgotten in the quest to make them disappear. And although it’s certainly liberating to be honest about having stretch marks and wanting them to less visible, it’s even more liberating to question the cultural aestethic from which these thoughts arise and attempt to evaluate beauty from a perspective that might not be informed by a culture that values youth over age. Yes, it’s quite unlikely that I’ll be showing off my belly again in this lifetime, even if I come to terms with my marks. But hopefully I can learn to see these lines as something beautitful because of what they represent and the nature in which they can bring me to a place of gratitude and thankfulness.
As I humbly embark on the journey of teaching my daughter the values of beauty, these ‘flaws’ can remind me to challenge our culture’s ideals in the hope that she will embrace an aesthetic that is informed by what is true and noble, rather than one informed by marketers making millions on the hope that she will feel insecure about the inherent beauty of her body. Yes, easier said than done. But I certainly want to give it a shot.
I beg to differ, or at least I want to anyways.
My lower abdomen is covered with marks and the days of the two-piece suit are quite over. If I do a sit-up it looks like there’s a little man smiling at me with my belly button as his open mouth. But I’m trying not to see them as ugly. They are a part of my history and they tell a story. With Lucy, my 28 week appointment showed her growth as below the 10th percentile and the doctors worried they would need to take her early. I began going to weekly appointments with ultrasounds and non-stress tests to make sure she was okay. It goes without saying that we were anxious and we wanted so badly to be able to just relax and enjoy the pregnancy. But at 36 weeks, Lucy jumped in growth, going from the 9th to 38th percentile. We were estatic and relieved. And that quick growth left behind bright red stretch marks that looked like I’d been clawed by a wild cat. But honestly, I really didn’t care at that point.
Now that swimsuit season is in full swing, I find myself caring. And it makes me angry that I struggle with caring. Really, shouldn’t these lines be embraced? They tell of story of love, of loss, of sacrifice, of beauty, and pain. They are a reminder of my identity, my history, and my present responsibilty. But sadly, their story can be easily negated by the desire to fit into our culture’s understanding of beauty. The fact that many would make unheard of sacrifices to see these marks on their own bodies is forgotten in the quest to make them disappear. And although it’s certainly liberating to be honest about having stretch marks and wanting them to less visible, it’s even more liberating to question the cultural aestethic from which these thoughts arise and attempt to evaluate beauty from a perspective that might not be informed by a culture that values youth over age. Yes, it’s quite unlikely that I’ll be showing off my belly again in this lifetime, even if I come to terms with my marks. But hopefully I can learn to see these lines as something beautitful because of what they represent and the nature in which they can bring me to a place of gratitude and thankfulness.
As I humbly embark on the journey of teaching my daughter the values of beauty, these ‘flaws’ can remind me to challenge our culture’s ideals in the hope that she will embrace an aesthetic that is informed by what is true and noble, rather than one informed by marketers making millions on the hope that she will feel insecure about the inherent beauty of her body. Yes, easier said than done. But I certainly want to give it a shot.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Woodland Park Zoo
Some of you may be saying to yourselves, "Yada, yada, yada. Enough of your ramblings. Give me some pictures." Well, I'm happy to oblige. Lucy and I went to the zoo today and here are a few pics.
A beautiful summer day in Seattle. You can see the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
The Butterfly and Blooms Exhibit.
This terrifies me.
Lucy's first downward dog. Greg, you should be proud.
I love that little face!
A beautiful summer day in Seattle. You can see the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
The Butterfly and Blooms Exhibit.
This terrifies me.
Lucy's first downward dog. Greg, you should be proud.
I love that little face!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
A Tale of Two Corporate Giants
Dave and I are convinced that Babies R’ Us is a little pocket of hell on earth. Although convenient in the world of one-stop baby shopping, I usually hate every minute I spend beneath those flourescent lights. This morning was no different. After dropping off my dad at the airport, I was in the neighborhood of BRU and thought I would take the plunge in order to get some summer pajamas for Lucy (I do realize this purchase is about a month late). Once again, I was cursing myself for being lured into the clutches of the ulitmate baby megastore as I sorted through pajamas unable to find Lucy’s size. After a less than ideal experience at the cash register and my worst expectations realized I left the store wanting to hit something.
Enter Starbucks.
Conveniently located next door is a Starbucks, strategically planted for the post-hell pick-me-up. I walked in, not really knowing what I wanted but feeling the need to treat myself after my visit to the underworld. And what do you know? CD’s were on sale for $7.95 providing the perfect answer to a generous gift card burning a hole in my pocket. I purchased some CD’s and had a conversation with a friendly barista about the merits of small children while sipping my free ice water. And to top it off, as I sat with Lucy another friendly barista offered us a sample of their new orange mango banana smoothie, the perfect complement to Lucy’s string cheese. Lucy was content. I was happy. It was good.
Starbucks, you have your faults and sometimes I don’t like you but today was not one of those days. Thanks for the love.
Enter Starbucks.
Conveniently located next door is a Starbucks, strategically planted for the post-hell pick-me-up. I walked in, not really knowing what I wanted but feeling the need to treat myself after my visit to the underworld. And what do you know? CD’s were on sale for $7.95 providing the perfect answer to a generous gift card burning a hole in my pocket. I purchased some CD’s and had a conversation with a friendly barista about the merits of small children while sipping my free ice water. And to top it off, as I sat with Lucy another friendly barista offered us a sample of their new orange mango banana smoothie, the perfect complement to Lucy’s string cheese. Lucy was content. I was happy. It was good.
Starbucks, you have your faults and sometimes I don’t like you but today was not one of those days. Thanks for the love.
Monday, July 14, 2008
This Little Piggy Went to Market...
The quintessential tourist spot of Seattle is probably Pike's Place Market. My dad wanted to pay the market a visit so we headed out for the morning. Sometimes I tire of the market but not this time. The sun was out, the air was clear and there were fresh berries to be had. Other than a few Lucy meltdowns thrown in for, uh, fun, we had a good time and got some great fruit while my dad purchased scallops that were bigger than my face. A good day.
You can just see Mt. Rainier above Quest Field.
Looking like tourists for the sake of a blog pic.
Really looking like tourists - Dave and Lucy in front of the original Starbucks.
Rainier Cherries. So good.
Diane - notice the beets on the right. This pic is for you.
Seriously, the best peaches ever.
You can just see Mt. Rainier above Quest Field.
Looking like tourists for the sake of a blog pic.
Really looking like tourists - Dave and Lucy in front of the original Starbucks.
Rainier Cherries. So good.
Diane - notice the beets on the right. This pic is for you.
Seriously, the best peaches ever.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
On the Merits of Pie
“When you die, if you get a choice between going to regular heaven or pie heaven, choose pie heaven. It might be a trick, but if not…mmmmm, boy!”
- Jack Handy
I made a pie this weekend. A strawberry-rhubarb pie, to be exact, which is a fruit combination that I wish I had discovered much earlier in life. My dad is visiting this weekend so I thought it would be nice to have a little special something on hand.
Which brings me to the merits of pie.
A pie is not the glamourous member of the dessert family. In a world of chocolate lavender baked goods and pomegranate green tea concoctions, the fruit pie is the trusty old station wagon of the dessert world and the shy girlfriend of the girl next door. And I must say, I love that girlfriend of mine. While swanky desserts may have their place, the fruit pie beckons in a unpretentious and calming voice, Come over and pull up a chair. Sit down and stay awhile.
Will do.
I had almost given up pie making last year. Everytime I made a crust it crumbled and was impossible to work with (cookbooks always caution against overworking the dough but they rarely discuss the frustration in underworking). However, Dave’s grandmother saved me from signing off from the pie making world. She taught me to work the dough and I still remember her saying, “you gotta work it. Really work it.” I remember that mantra now everytime I make a piecrust and there is truly something special about remembering the instructions from someone wiser and more skilled, who probably learned the same thing from her mother or grandmother. Pies used to be a necessary answer to the question,“What are we going to do with all this fruit to keep it from going bad?” Today, the pie might be unnecessary, but that’s what I love about it - the simplicity of pie making makes me think about my rural Nebraskan roots and the frugal art of turning overripe fruit into something useful.
Lastly, the comforting nature of the pie gives way to conversation and the words spoken between bites often lead to friendship, at least in my experience. I bonded with one of my closest friends ten years ago when she decided to teach an aspiring but terrible cook the art of making pie crust. Four of our dearest friends are former neighbors who joined us for an apple pie shortly after moving next door and down the hall. And while I realize that pie is not the most health conscious food item to serve your loved ones, I suspect these friendships might not have been as lasting had we conversed around bowls of fat-free frozen yogurt (they may beg to differ but I know differently).
So the next time you are choosing between some trendy dessert and a humble slice of pie, choose the pie and rediscover an old friend. Or better yet, make a pie and invite over a loved one for a long chat. You’ll be glad you did.
Bon Appetit.
- Jack Handy
I made a pie this weekend. A strawberry-rhubarb pie, to be exact, which is a fruit combination that I wish I had discovered much earlier in life. My dad is visiting this weekend so I thought it would be nice to have a little special something on hand.
Which brings me to the merits of pie.
A pie is not the glamourous member of the dessert family. In a world of chocolate lavender baked goods and pomegranate green tea concoctions, the fruit pie is the trusty old station wagon of the dessert world and the shy girlfriend of the girl next door. And I must say, I love that girlfriend of mine. While swanky desserts may have their place, the fruit pie beckons in a unpretentious and calming voice, Come over and pull up a chair. Sit down and stay awhile.
Will do.
I had almost given up pie making last year. Everytime I made a crust it crumbled and was impossible to work with (cookbooks always caution against overworking the dough but they rarely discuss the frustration in underworking). However, Dave’s grandmother saved me from signing off from the pie making world. She taught me to work the dough and I still remember her saying, “you gotta work it. Really work it.” I remember that mantra now everytime I make a piecrust and there is truly something special about remembering the instructions from someone wiser and more skilled, who probably learned the same thing from her mother or grandmother. Pies used to be a necessary answer to the question,“What are we going to do with all this fruit to keep it from going bad?” Today, the pie might be unnecessary, but that’s what I love about it - the simplicity of pie making makes me think about my rural Nebraskan roots and the frugal art of turning overripe fruit into something useful.
Lastly, the comforting nature of the pie gives way to conversation and the words spoken between bites often lead to friendship, at least in my experience. I bonded with one of my closest friends ten years ago when she decided to teach an aspiring but terrible cook the art of making pie crust. Four of our dearest friends are former neighbors who joined us for an apple pie shortly after moving next door and down the hall. And while I realize that pie is not the most health conscious food item to serve your loved ones, I suspect these friendships might not have been as lasting had we conversed around bowls of fat-free frozen yogurt (they may beg to differ but I know differently).
So the next time you are choosing between some trendy dessert and a humble slice of pie, choose the pie and rediscover an old friend. Or better yet, make a pie and invite over a loved one for a long chat. You’ll be glad you did.
Bon Appetit.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Mad Skills
I hate to brag but I need to show off some of my photography skills. Does the word artistic genius come to mind? Probably. Let's just say that taking pictures of a child on a swing is harder than it looks. I almost got kicked in the face more than once, but that probably says more about my clumsiness than my artistic talents. Enjoy.
Carkeek
One of my favorite parks in Seattle is Carkeek Park. It has great hiking trails, a nice beach, a playground and it's really close. Here's a few pics of Lucy loving the summer sun - and another pole.
Brownie Love
I love sharing food that brings me joy. I admit, I'm one of those people who push a little too hard for others to try the food on my plate. The same goes with recipes, which brings me to these brownies that I consumed last night. This is my failsafe brownie recipe that I turn to when I have a chocolate craving. If you are one who wants to cut down on your butter consumption or tries to sneak vegetable purees into your desserts, please read no further. These are fat bomb brownies at its finest, full of chocolate, sugar and butter love. This recipe is taken from Nancy Baggett's All American Cookie Book (a great and beautiful cookbook, btw) and I think you will love them. These aren't cakey but chewy, dense and fudgy with a shiny, craggily top and great mouthfeel. They are super easy to make and SO much better than that red box mix. Get yourself the ingredients and bake them the next time you have a chocolate urge. Today, if possible.
Fudge Brownie Supreme
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons (1 stick plus 2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
5 oz bittersweet (not unsweetened) or semi-sweet chocolate, broken up or coarsely chopped (I use Hershey's Special Dark)
2/3 cup all-purpose white flour
1 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened American-style cocoa powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
3 large eggs
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8 inch square baking pan, or coat with nonstick spray. Line the pan with aluminum foil, letting the foil overhang two opposing sides of the pan by about 2 inches. Grease or spray foil with cooking spray.
In a large, microwave-safe bowl, microwave the butter and chocolate on 100-percent power for one minute. Stir well. Continue microwaving on 50-percent power, stirring at 30 second intervals. Stop microwaving before the chocolate completely melts, and let the residual heat finish the job. (Alternatively, in a large, heavy saucepan, melt the chocolate and butter over lowest heat, stirring frequently being very careful not to burn. Immediately remove from heat.) Let cool to warm.
In a small bowl, thoroughly stir together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt and set aside. Stir the sugar and brown sugar into the chocolate-butter mixture until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla, and stir until sugar dissolves and the mixture is well blended and smooth. Stir in the flour mixture just until evenly incorporated. Turn out the batter into the baking pan, spreading to the edges.
Bake in the middle of the oven for 28-33 minutes*, or until the center is almost firm when tapped and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean except for the bottom 1/4 inch which should still look moist. DO NOT OVERBAKE! Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let stand until brownie is completely cooled. Refrigerate until well chilled.
Using the overhanging foil as handles, transfer the brownie to a cutting board. Carefully peel off and discard foil. If desired, cut away and discard any overbaked edges. Using a large, sharp knife, cut the brownie into 12 bars, wiping knife clean between cuts.
Store in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze for up to a month. If freezing, leave brownie slab whole and cut into bars when partially thawed.
*My oven might not be calibrated correctly but these brownies always take at least 36 minutes in my oven.
Fudge Brownie Supreme
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons (1 stick plus 2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
5 oz bittersweet (not unsweetened) or semi-sweet chocolate, broken up or coarsely chopped (I use Hershey's Special Dark)
2/3 cup all-purpose white flour
1 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened American-style cocoa powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
3 large eggs
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8 inch square baking pan, or coat with nonstick spray. Line the pan with aluminum foil, letting the foil overhang two opposing sides of the pan by about 2 inches. Grease or spray foil with cooking spray.
In a large, microwave-safe bowl, microwave the butter and chocolate on 100-percent power for one minute. Stir well. Continue microwaving on 50-percent power, stirring at 30 second intervals. Stop microwaving before the chocolate completely melts, and let the residual heat finish the job. (Alternatively, in a large, heavy saucepan, melt the chocolate and butter over lowest heat, stirring frequently being very careful not to burn. Immediately remove from heat.) Let cool to warm.
In a small bowl, thoroughly stir together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt and set aside. Stir the sugar and brown sugar into the chocolate-butter mixture until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla, and stir until sugar dissolves and the mixture is well blended and smooth. Stir in the flour mixture just until evenly incorporated. Turn out the batter into the baking pan, spreading to the edges.
Bake in the middle of the oven for 28-33 minutes*, or until the center is almost firm when tapped and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean except for the bottom 1/4 inch which should still look moist. DO NOT OVERBAKE! Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let stand until brownie is completely cooled. Refrigerate until well chilled.
Using the overhanging foil as handles, transfer the brownie to a cutting board. Carefully peel off and discard foil. If desired, cut away and discard any overbaked edges. Using a large, sharp knife, cut the brownie into 12 bars, wiping knife clean between cuts.
Store in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze for up to a month. If freezing, leave brownie slab whole and cut into bars when partially thawed.
*My oven might not be calibrated correctly but these brownies always take at least 36 minutes in my oven.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Lunch with Munch
On a lighter note, Lucy and I met Dave for lunch this afternoon. His building is right on the water in downtown Seattle adjacent to the Olympic Sculpture Park. It makes for some nice lunching. Today Lucy was pretty mesmorized by the little light poles (yeah, I realize that's probably not their proper name). She decided each one should get a hug. It was a long walk.
My daughter, the tree hugger. I'm so proud. : )
My daughter, the tree hugger. I'm so proud. : )
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