Servantless American Cook

lemon poppyseed pancakes

2011-05-01T17:25:00.003-04:00

Determined to use up some buttermilk I bought for Easter, I made lemon poppyseed pancakes for Joe and I. Who knew a hint of lemon with maple syrup is a delicious combo!?

You'll need: (makes 7-10 pancakes)
1 egg
1 cup flour
1 tbs. sugar
zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup buttermilk
2 tbs butter, melted and cooled slightly
2 tbs. poppy seeds (I used 1 tbs. but I definitely think they could have used more!)

Method:
1. In a small bowl rub the lemon zest into the granulated sugar until pale yellow and fragrant.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk and butter. Add the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, poppy seeds, and salt. Stir until just combined. The batter will be a bit lumpy - Do not overmix!
3. Heat a griddle pan or a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add a teaspoon of oil or a dab of butter and heat through. Add 2 heaping tablespoons of batter to the pan. Heat until bubbles form and start to pop. Carefully flip over and cook through.
4. Place cooked pancakes on an oven proof plate and let rest in a 200 degree oven while you fry the rest of the pancakes.
5. Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Becky Bakes

Easter Brunch

2011-04-25T22:52:00.004-04:00

Over Easter break, I was on a baking frenzy. I baked Giada's crispy parmesan biscuits, Buttermilk and blackberry jam muffins, A butter spongecake, and a brown sugar almond coffee cake in two days.

I will start with the butter spongecake. The recipe came from Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking - so I figured it's gotta be good. It was dense and had a sweet, buttery flavor. I topped it with homemade whipped cream and strawberries. Below is the recipe:

As a side note, it is a recipe that does not contain baking powder or baking soda. So if you are looking for a fluffy, high cake...this isn't it.

Biscuit Au Beurre
(Butter Spongecake)

You will need:
a round cake pan, preferably 10 inches
4 tbs. butter
2/3 cup + 2 tbs. granulated sugar
4 eggs, separated
2 tsp. vanilla extract
pinch of salt
1.25 cups sifted cake flour

Method:
1. Preheat oven to 350* F. Prepare the cake pan.
2. Melt butter and set aside to cool.
3. Beat the sugar into the egg yolks, add the vanilla, and continue beating until mixture is thick, pale yellow, and "forms a ribbon."
4. Beat egg whites and salt together in a separate bowl until soft peaks are formed; sprinkle on two tbs. sugar until stiff peaks are formed.
5. Gradually add egg whites and sifted cake flour to egg yolk mixture by adding a little egg white, partially blend, then add a little cake flour, and partially blend. Then add the melted butter, but "omit the milky residue." Mix together but do not overmix to keep the volume of the egg whites.
6. Pour batter into pan and bake for 30 - 35 minutes. (I put mine in for 25 minutes and it was done). Cool on a cake rack for at least an hour.
7. Enjoy!

The butter spongecake was delicious but the Brown Sugar and Almond Coffeecake stole the show at Easter. This recipe came from the Macrina Cookbook. I bought this cookbook in Seattle last summer after Joe and I just happened to step into one of the best bakeries in Seattle.

Joe ordered the Buttermilk Waffle (which I have the recipe for!)

I ordered French Toast (which I have the recipe for as well!)

I love this cookbook because it reminds me of our vacation to Seattle and Vancouver and all the amazing food we ate.

Unfortunately, the recipe for this coffee cake is at home, which is where I will not be for about a week and a half. You will just have to wait for the recipe!

Until then...

Bon Appetit!

French Food

2011-04-11T14:06:00.008-04:00

Joe and I made a fantastic French-inspired dinner. Chicken with a Dijon mustard cream sauce, Carrots braised in butter (Julia Child original), and skinny fries with a mayo/ketchup dipping sauce. It was AMAZING to say the least.

Of course, there was lots of butter and cream involved. :)

Joe handled the chicken which was a recipe from Katie Brown's Weekends (the French section, of course). It turned out absolutely delicious. I could tell Joe had fun making it, too. Deglazing was involved - which made him feel like a "real chef." ;) He is so adorable.

I handled the carrots, fries, and dipping sauce. The carrots were easy to make. Boil them with a tablespoon of sugar (according to Julia this "develops their flavor"), a tablespoon of butter, and a pinch salt for about thirty minutes. Drain any extra water. Toss them in more butter and chopped parsley. They turned out great! They were soft, very flavorful, and the orange and green together looked beautiful.

The fries were store bought. Buy them unseasoned so you can add a little tarragon to them to give them more class. ;) The dipping sauce is simple. Two parts mayo to one part ketchup. Our favorite French restaurant serves often serves this dipping sauce as a side, so we decided it was a must.

Dessert, anyone?

Simply Delicious

2011-03-31T21:14:00.003-04:00

I love all things Italian. The country, the language, and the people, but most importantly, I love the food...

Pasta.
Pizza.
Cheese.
Bread.
Basil.
Tomatoes.
Olive oil....

I could go on forever. It's so delicious. It's so...simple. It's food in it's most pure form, and you can't get more pure than Bruschetta.

Recipe:
Italian Bread
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Garlic
Tomatoes
Basil
Salt
Pepper

Method:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Cut crusty, Italian bread into 1/2 inch slices. Drizzle a little EVOO and rub garlic on the slices.
Toast in oven for about fifteen minutes.
While bread is in oven, seed and cut tomatoes into small chunks. Slice basil into thin strips. In a small bowl combine EVOO, tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper.
Remove bread from oven and top with tomato and basil mixture.

Delizioso!

PS - check out my new blog! http://lavenderandlemons.wordpress.com

I'm Back!

2011-03-21T16:12:00.005-04:00

I'm back and I am ready to bake!

I made a delicious chocolate pie this weekend (along with pork bbq sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and baked beans). It was easy, I had all the ingredients, and it was so yummy.

Here is the recipe (adapted by Steph's Bite by Bite):

1 frozen pie crust
4 tablespoons of cocoa powder
3/4 cups of sugar
5 tablespoons of flour
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1 1/2 cups of milk
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla
2 egg yolks, beaten slightly
1 tablespoon of butter
1 Container of Fat Free cool whip

Chocolate Pie Filling Directions
Mix your sugar, flour, salt, cocoa, eggs and milk (all except vanilla and butter) with a whisk.

Cook while stirring on medium until it bubbles and thickens, about 5-10 minutes. If it becomes lumpy, just beat out the lumps.

Remove from heat and stir in your vanilla and butter.

Pour filling in to cooled pie crust. Refrigerate for at least 5 hours.

<3
Kimberly

Orange You Glad

2010-12-08T21:35:00.005-05:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas -- with all the snow we have been having lately! :)

This morning, I was with Joe and we ate a nice breakfast together at Panera before we had to depart. I had a whole wheat bagel with butter and yogurt with strawberries. He had a sesame seed bagel with plain cream cheese and tea. We said our goodbye's and I headed back to school.

Right when I got back, I bundled and set out for a run. I ran about 25 minutes. I wanted to go longer, but my shoulder was starting to hurt. I decided it would be best to stop. I think I have been carrying to much weight on my left shoulder (luggage and purses) and it is starting to irritate it. I am going to have to do some cardio that doesn't involve moving my shoulders (biking! yay!).

After my run, I headed to Whole Foods (I have never been and was had some time to explore). I picked up some sharp cheddar cheese and lentil soup.

By the time I got home, I was pretty hungry for lunch. My lunch turned out to be monochromatic! Check it out:

an orange, sharp cheddar with crackers, carrots, and blueberry yogurt with granola from Panera. I also had some homemade sweet potato chips. Orange, Indeed!

Between lunch and dinner I studied for my anthropology test and worked out. I would study, workout, study, workout. I did a little yoga and a ballet inspired workout. I love ballet workouts. I danced for a long time and I like to reminisce with these workouts.

By 7, I had a made a quick dinner. My lentil soup from Whole Foods with a couple of Saltines. It was just OK, don't think I will buy it again. It did the job. For dessert, I had a Choco-peppermint cookie! MMMMM - those things are so good!

Time to get in a little more studying. Then, it's bed time. I have a busy day tomorrow filled with tutoring, testing, and driving (four hours) home!

<3
Kimberly

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

2010-12-04T22:21:00.006-05:00

Another relaxing day for me! I woke up at 9 am and had a simple bowl of Honey Bunches of Oats for breakfast.

Then I did ~50 minutes of Yoga - Dave Farmer style (yogadownload.com). I really enjoyed his class. It was relaxing, and yet I was still working hard.

After Yoga, I took a bubble bath. In a Jacuzzi bath tub. With Candles. It was so incredibly relaxing.

Before I knew it, my stomach was growling for lunch. I heated up some leftover Turkey Soup. It's delicious! It has tomatoes, celery, and carrots. Yummmm! Oh, and a piece of pumpernickle swirl bread on the side.

It was hard to make this soup look visually appealing!

Then, I had a craving for baking! I decided to make Chocolate Peppermint Cookies in the spirit of Christmas! I had my Christmas music in the background and started baking.

I adapted the recipe from Giada De Laurentiis. My favorite food network star.

What you'll need:
1 tube refrigerated cookie dough (makes things very easy!)
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips (I used dark chocolate)
1/4 cup heavy cream
crushed peppermint candies

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Bake cookies according to package.
3. Combine 1 cup of chocolate chips and the cream in a small bowl. Place the bowl over a pan of simmering water and stir until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth and refrigerate for 1 hour.
4. Once the chocolate mixture is set. Spread it on top of each cookie. Then top with crushed peppermint candies.
5. Enjoy!

The cookies turned out lighter than I thought they would be, which I was very pleased about. The peppermint candies add just enough mint flavor, without it being overpowering. You gotta try them!

Joe came over in the afternoon. We were having trouble decided on what to do since it was rainy and cold outside. We decided to do a little shopping. We went to Frugal Backpacker, Diamond Brand, World Market, and Earthfare. I didn't buy anything but I found a lot of things I loved in World Market. I adore that store. I plan on going back within the next few days and picking up a few things.

For dinner, we met my mom and Joe's mom at Marco's Pizza. Joe and I split a caesar salad and pineapple and ham pizza. Deee-licious.

Time for more relaxing! ;)

<3
Kimberly

Time to relax

2010-12-04T09:33:00.004-05:00

Wow, this past week I have been so busy with school work that I had to put my blog on the back burner for a few days. I had a presentation, took an exam, and turned in three papers. Whew! I am so glad to be back home now for a few days. I still have to go back to school for just a couple of days to take more exams. BOO!

I never got around to do a Thanksgiving post, either. (That's pretty bad for a food blogger...) I have pictures to share, though!

The Thanksgiving Table

There I am, running the Turkey Trot! I ran ~23:30.

Now to yesterday.

I woke up at 9 am and ate breakfast. It was yogurt, pumpkin, and the last of the organic cascadian farms granola. I am excited to try a new kind of organic granola, any suggestions?

I asked Joe if he wanted to go on a run around 11 am and he did! I changed into running clothes and did a quick martial arts workout before I left. I only had time to do the circuit once and my arms are really sore today! I am so weak! I usually don't do martial arts either, so it was fun to try something new. Afterward, Joe and I went on a forty minute run at the arboretum. I felt so tired during it, but I was glad to be running. I haven't had a chance to run in a week!

We took showers and then had leftover Makaronilaatiko for lunch. What's that you ask? It's a Finnish casserole with macaroni and beef. You eat it with ketchup and it is wonderful! It was the first thing I ever made for Joe, and that was when I fell in love with cooking! I will make it again soon and post the recipe!

We took showers and then just relaxed around the house for a bit. Eventually I had an afternoon snack of blueberry yogurt. Then Joe and I decided to walk to Barnes and Noble and read (it's not far from his house).

I read Blood Done Sign My Name. The last book I have to read for school (yay!). Joe read a Rock and Ice magazine. We shared a cup of hot chocolate. :)

The evening ended with lots of food, friends, and family. :)

<3

I'm still here!

2010-11-30T21:40:00.002-05:00

The week before exams is getting the best of me! By Friday (at the latest) I will be able to start posting again!

love and best dishes.
(remind you of anyone?)

Day of Fun

2010-11-23T14:17:00.009-05:00

Yesterday was my day to plan a "day of fun" for Joe and I. (Even though, everyday is a fun day for us.) I planned a day of rock climbing with a picnic. Then, a nice dinner at Bier Garden.

Before I picked up Joe I ate Honey Bunches of Oats with Almonds for breakfast. I love me some cereal.

Once I arrived at Joe's house I asked him where he preferred to climb - Looking Glass Rock in Pisgah National Forest or Rumbling Bald at Lake Lure. He picked Lake Lure (the place we went two days ago!). And so we went!

After two climbs for Joe and one for me, we ate lunch. I packed a lunch of apples, raspberry yogurts, granola, blue tortilla chips, and a Turkey BLT wrap from Earthfare. It was very satisfying!

After lunch, Joe got in one more climb and we decided to head home and take a nap! There are two kinds of naps. One is the kind where you wake up feeling refreshed. The other kind is where you wake up feeling groggy and worse than before you fell asleep. Unfortunately, we both felt really groggy when we woke up. After a shower, I felt a lot better. Then we headed downtown to Bier Garden for dinner.

We shared nachos as an appetizer. For dinner, Joe had a salmon, brie, panini. I had a burger with pepper jack cheese and sweet potato fries on the side. Joe seemed to really like his. My burger was a little over cooked (and I like mine medium-well!) but the sweet potato fries were really good.

As we walked out of the restaurant we saw a hit and run! Joe happened to get the guys plate number before he drove away. We wrote it down and put it on the victim's car. I can't believe how inconsiderate some people are. It was our good deed for the day! :)

The rest of the night we just relaxed and watched Mad Men.

<3

Kimberly

Hard Times

2010-11-21T23:13:00.006-05:00

Today I was VERY excited for breakfast because Joe and I were going to have it at Terrace Cafe. It did not disappoint!

I had a spinach, mushroom, and Gruyere cheese omelet with fresh fruit on the side. I loved the fresh fruit, because it wasn't just the standard honey dew, canteloupe, and grapes. BORING. It had raspberries, blackberries, kiwis, strawberries, pineapple and the boring stuff mixed in with it! So good!

Joe had a "Full Breakfast" with hash browns, sunny side up eggs, pancakes, and bacon. I tried some of his pancakes - they were delicious!

I definitely want to visit again for lunch and dinner!

After breakfast, we headed home. I am a huge homebody and love being home. I am very happy I get to be here a whole week before I have to go back to school.

The moment we got home we decided to go on a 6.5 mile run at the arboretum. It's a loop we do frequently together. The loop is called "Hard Times." There is a 1.5 mile hill within the loop and it is HARD. Hence, hard times. ;) After the hill though is a nice VERY long downhill, which we decided to race down to make it worthwhile. It was a very good run. Only four more days until the Turkey Trot 5k!

The rest of the evening I relaxed at home. My mom made me stuffed shells for dinner. One of my favorites! :) I caught up on school work and now I am off to bed.

<3

Kimberly

Bouldering and Ben Folds

2010-11-21T10:39:00.011-05:00

Yesterday was a JAM PACKED day for Joe and I.

We woke up at 6 AM to get ready for our bouldering trip with a Venture group. If you are unfamiliar with Venture, it is a program associated with many different colleges to promote outdoor learning. Students go on different outdoor trips, such as kayaking, hiking, camping, rocking climbing etc. Our bouldering trip was at Lake Lure. Joe was one of the trip leaders yesterday!

Joe with a bouldering pad on his back!

The group left by 7 am and made a quick stop at Bruegger's Bagels for breakfast. I had a cinnamon raisin bagel with plain cream cheese and a fruit cup. It kept me full for a very long time!

I had SO MUCH FUN bouldering. I "topped out" (climbers lingo for making it to the top) of 5 different boulders and 3 others were a bit too challenging. I definitely want to go back and try the hard ones again!

Me bouldering!

Lunch consisted of whole wheat tortillas, Trader Joe's organic creamy peanut butter, jelly, nutella, marshmallow fluff (let's just say I went all out!) hummus, carrots, and granola (or GORP - at least, that is what everyone is calling it.) It wasn't the healthiest lunch but it was definitely tasty!

Joe bouldering!

It was a beautiful day!

Foggy.

We bouldered until 4 and then headed out for dinner and then the drive home. Dinner was not that great, either. It was a mediocre BBQ place and I didn't have much of an appetite to eat it.

We made it back to campus by 7:30 and rushed to get ready for the Ben Fold's concert (which started at 8)!! We made it there just in time. The opening singer announced, "Up next is Ben Fold's" right when we walked into the door. The concert was great. He played a lot of my favorite songs.

Made it just in time! I didn't even have time to blow dry my hair.

Can you find Ben Folds? :)

One of my favorite songs of his! :)

By the end of the concert we were exhausted and went straight to sleep!

Sandwiches

2010-11-19T21:26:00.005-05:00

This morning, I attempted the pumpkin oats again. They turned out a lot better this time. I only used 1/4 cup pumpkin, almost a whole banana, and less spice! Check it out:

Afterward, I tutored for an hour and counted down the minutes until I could finally leave to go meet up with Joe! I arrived at noon and we went to go get lunch at Einstein Brothers Bagels on campus. It was my first time going there. I had a wheat bagel thin with turkey, lettuce, tomatoes, and cream cheese. It was OK. Joe bought us a chocolate chip coffee cake as a treat. It was just OK, too.

By 1 o'clock we went to the movies to go see Harry Potter #7. I am not a huge Harry Potter fan. (I know, what's wrong with me?) It's not that I don't like it, I just never got into it. I read the first book and that's it. I have seen a few of the movies, and thought they weren't anything special to me. However, I did enjoy watching Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Maybe I should read the books? :)

It was too nice outside not to go on a walk after the movie, so that's what we did! We walked until it was time to meet up with our friend Ben at Brixx Pizza for dinner. Ben has been a close friend of Joe's and mine for a long time (I've known him since 3rd grade!). I am always happy to meet up with him. :)

Brixx was yummy as always! We shared the hummus plate as an appetizer and for dinner I had a smoked turkey sandwich with arugula, tomatoes, bacon, and Fontina cheese on Focaccia bread. It was very good, but I was kind of wished I had some pizza.

I loved the fresh fruit on the side, too!

Ben, Me, and Joe (Sadly, we did not go to TCBY)

Tomorrow, Joe and I are waking up at 5:30 to go on a bouldering trip with a Venture group. Joe is going to be one of the trip leaders! I can't wait to see him in action!

<3

Kimberly

Good Start

2010-11-18T21:08:00.005-05:00

This morning I woke up and made myself a pumpkin yogurt parfait. It was very good, but I wasn't satisfied for very long before I was hungry again.

I am quite pleased by my breakfast pics lately. :)

I was counting down the minutes until 2:45 because that is when my Thanksgiving break started! Yep, that's right, I have a full 10 days off (including weekends) for my break. (However, I still have three papers due the week after Thanksgiving. Grrr.)

Lunch was not that great today. I didn't have much in my pantry so I had an apple, half a banana, and half a bagel with peanut butter.

After class, I went on a 4.5 mile run. It felt good, but I am sick of running at the same place and am ready for some new scenery. I am running the Turkey Trot 5k on Thanksgiving morning - I am starting to get pumped up about it!

I was hungry after my run so I had a snack. One orange and a small bowl of granola with milk. It hit the spot nicely.

I showered, did some packing, cleaned my room, and started making dinner, which was SO GOOD! I had tilapia (with tons of lemon, lemon zest, and EVOO), broccoli, and homemade sweet potato chips (with a little ketchup). I was going to put fresh basil on the tilapia but I totally forgot! I was hungry! The sweet potato chip idea came from Kath's delicious looking lunch.

I REALLY wish I was better at taking food pictures. Practice makes perfect, right? I hope...

And FINALLY for dessert I made a PUMPKIN MILKSHAKE. I had been wanting to make this for two weeks now, but wanted to save it for the right occasion. It was the perfect start to my Thanksgiving break! Here is the recipe from Nutrition to Kitchen:

2 cups light vanilla bean ice cream
1 cup pureed pumpkin
1/2 cup fat-free milk
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
optional: 1 thin ginger cookie, crushed, for crumbling on top

Preparation:

1. Blend all ingredients, except for the cookie, together. Divide milkshake evenly among two glasses and sprinkle with ginger cookie crumbs. Serve.

I sp1it into thirds to share with my roommates!

PS - I couldn't post the pictures, because they were just too awful. I am sure I will make it again though, and I will post pictures!

Cheers!

It's Official...#2

2010-11-17T21:01:00.002-05:00

I joined the sushi club! I tried Sushi for the first time today and I loved it! I Wish I had my camera to take pictures of the giant BOAT filled with sushi my friends and I had, but I didn't have it with me. :( I will try to remember all the names:

Bagel roll - salmon, cream cheese, and rice in a FRIED bagel! YUM!
Philly roll

Okay, sadly, I can't remember any of the other names, and we ordered six different kinds! They were all so good!

I have been enjoying a lot of first's lately. :) I love trying new things!

<3

Kimberly

It's Official...

2010-11-16T21:05:00.010-05:00

...I joined the Glee Club! Tonight I watched Glee for the first time with my roomies and I loved it! I am going to have to add "Watch Season One of Glee" on my Thanksgiving To Do list. ;)

Earlier today I went on a 3.5 mile run. My first run in a week! It felt pretty good for the most part. I was a little tired, but that's expected.

I brought along my new watch and heart monitor! It was a pre-half marathon race gift from my mom. It calculates my heart rate and calories burned!

I didn't even burn 200 calories for a thirty minute run (191 to be exact)! Whaaa?! I was hoping for a solid 300. I guess I'll take what I can get. :)

I got some homework and laundry done. I already started packing for my Thanksgiving vacation! (I get excited.)

For dinner, I decided on a spinach, tomato, and italian cheese omelet on a tortilla! It hit the spot!

It was easy to roll up and eat. The picture doesn't give it's delicious taste justice.

+ one piece of chocolate and 2 small cookies for dessert.

Time to get ready for bed! I have a long day tomorrow.

<3

Kimberly

Bad Oatmeal, Good Picture

2010-11-16T12:48:00.008-05:00

This morning, I woke up very excited for my pumpkin oatmeal. I followed Kath's recipe for her pumpkin oatmeal with a few adjustments:
http://www.katheats.com/pumpkin-wars/

I had high hopes for this oatmeal. I mean, look how beautiful it was!

So far this is my favorite picture I have taken of food! I am so proud! The leaves in the background, the colors and details in the oatmeal. It just screams fall! (The rest of the pictures do not look like this!)

Pumpkin oats with 1/3 cup skim milk, 1/3 cup oats, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 of a thinly sliced banana, pinch of salt, 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, vanilla, and pumpkin spice. Topped with a sprinkle of brown sugar, cinnamon raisin granola, and coconut. Well, the problem came about when I realized I used WAY too much pumpkin spice! It tasted really spicy, not the nice sweet taste pumpkin spice usually has. I thought I could negate it by adding more sugar. Nope. It made it worse! I still ate about half of it. I was dissappointed, because I had to eat cereal instead with the rest of my banana.

On the plus side, I stayed full until noon! Two of my classes were canceled today, so I went home early and made myself lunch.

A bagel with herbed brie cheese and ham, broccoli, and my fist Persimmon EVER. I found it to taste very similar to a melon. I'm sorry to say that I wasn't a huge fan. I didn't finish it. It was very ripe. I don't know if that had anything to do with it. I do have another one, so I am going to give it another chance tomorrow. Since, I threw the persimmon away I decided to enjoy an apple with vanilla yogurt and granola.

+ a small cookie for dessert!

I am going running today! YEY!

Busy Weekend

2010-11-15T20:26:00.015-05:00

Whew! This weekend was so fast, but so fun!

On Saturday: Joe and I went for a bike ride with our friend Matt. Matt is the pro-biker of the group and has been road biking for years.

My awesome bike!

We went for 20 miles, with a few rolling hills with one tough hill! At least, it was tough for me. My bike muscles have not matured! I need more practice.

Afterward, Joe and I went to Papa's and Beer for lunch! :)

Two Enchilada's with chicken and beans and rice. Ate only one Enchilada, most of the rice, and about half of the beans. It was sooooooo good!

Unfortunately, that night we had to head back to school. We said our goodbyes to our families. It was so sad because our visit went so quickly, but we will see them again next week for Thanksgiving!

On Sunday, my mom met up with me at Joe's apartment. I was going to be alone for the day, because he had a climbing event to lead with his school. My mom decided to come hang out with me for the day, so I wouldn't be alone. So nice of her. :)

We went to IKEA, ate lunch at Carraba's (we shared the chicken trio!) and the mall. We bought lots of stuff including a new helmet, biking pants, a blazer from Banana Republic, and a new top from the loft.

Joe eventually met up with us and we got frozen yogurt at Yogurt Mountain! The yogurt is self serve. There is a huge bar of toppings with different fruits, candies, cookies, and granola. The cost is 45 cents/ounce. It was fun making my own concoction.

Mine was Pumpkin Yogurt with graham cracker crumbs, oatmeal cookie chunks, and coconut.

This is Joe's...not even sure what is in it!

<3

Back to the old grind! I have lots of reading to get through tonight! I am already thinking about breakfast in the morning!!

Time Flies

2010-11-13T10:40:00.015-05:00

So far this weekend has been really fun, but it's going by way too fast!

On Thursday night, Joe and I arrived back home at 7 o'clock and picked up his sister and brother and headed straight for Mellow Mushroom! It has a really unique atmosphere, the waiters and waitresses are really friendly, and, of course, the food rocks! We split between the four of us a Caesar Salad and a large Hawaiian pizza. Afterward, we met up with some of our old friends.

On Friday, Joe and I ate at 12 Bones Smokehouse for lunch! 12 Bones has the best BBQ you will ever have. They have chicken, turkey, and pork. They have specialty sandwiches (Joe's favorite is the Smoked Turkey with sugar bacon, brie cheese, and pesto mayo!) and salad's. You can pick two sides, such as mac n cheese, buttered green beans, mashed sweet potatoes, baked beans, corn pudding etc. etc. It's delicious!

Pork plate topped with sweet tomato bbq sauce with green beans, mashed sweet potatoes, and corn bread. YUM!

Afterward we went on a short hike. The mountains look absolutely beautiful in the fall with colors of red, orange, and yellow. The mountains have a golden glow when the sun hits them just right.

After the hike, I showered and got ready for our friend's father's surprise birthday party.

It was at a new Italian restaurant called Trivinia. Free food and drinks all around!

Appetizer plate!

Pumpkin cheesecake! I had to nibble before I took the picture!

A belly dancer!

They threw a great party!

Wednesday's...

2010-11-10T20:48:00.008-05:00

...are always a long day for me. I have class from 9 in the morning to 6 at night. I woke up a few minutes early today to make myself some oatmeal. I felt good and was energized and sore from a workout I did yesterday! (I love that feeling!)

Strawberry Banana oatmeal. Check it out:

It was nice and warm and filling for a chilly morning.

I worked with 7th grade students today. We are making a music video based on the book The Outsiders. After a lot of planning, today we finally recorded the music video. It was really fun to see middle school students let go of their inhibitions and have fun dancing to the music video. Every week I have really enjoyed working with them.

I had a quick break in between classes to make some lunch at home. It was tuna with a little mayo on spinach leaves and multi-grain bread and an apple and sharp cheddar cheese. I would have photographed it, but it was not the most visually appealing lunch (and I am not the best food stylist, either). I also enjoyed a piece of my strawberry yogurt cake for dessert. I love that cake! It's so dense and moist. You have to try it!

When I headed back to school for my final class of the day I tried an Odwalla granola bar for a snack. It was pretty good, but I still think I like Cliff or Luna bars the best.
During class, I received a text from my friend Nicole asking if I would want to join her and Ida for a pilates/yoga class tonight. I did not want to pass that up! I agreed, but I had to rush home and eat dinner very fast to make it to the class on time. My only choice was to pick up a healthy choice dinner because I have NOTHING in my kitchen. It was OK and I didn't have time to relax and eat. I grabbed an apple on the go and made it to the class. The class was a bit of a challenge, but the instructor was BORING. She was not engaging at all and didn't even act happy to be there! I don't plan on going to her class again, but exercising in the company of my two friends was very nice.

I think not eating a fulfilling dinner definitely caused me to indulge in the goodies when I got home. I made some chocolate banana smoothies to share with my roomies.

With this packet of chocolate you add one large, ripe banana, ice, and skim milk. They are so good, and not a lot of calories. A guilt free treat, if you will. Then, I had ANOTHER piece of my delicious cake. I probably shouldn't have eaten the piece of cake, but, oh well, I'll live.

I need to start packing! I am heading home tomorrow! :)

Goodberry's

2010-11-09T21:28:00.006-05:00

Today started out just...eh...then, ended with a Goodberry! (I know, corny.)

First of all, my classes were so boring. All we did was watch videos. No interaction or anything. It made the day seem so long.

Second, today was not a good food day for me. I had no appetite for anything I had in my kitchen. I should have listened to my body and actually ate the things I wanted, but instead I just forced what I had down my throat and I enjoyed nothing I ate today...

EXCEPT

GOODBERRY'S!

Nicole and I decided to meet up at Goodberry's tonight for some quality girl time. If you aren't familiar with Goodberry's (which I wasn't until tonight) it is a frozen custard shop where all they ingredients are natural without preservatives. Everyday they have four flavors: chocolate, vanilla, sugar free vanilla, and the flavor of the day. You can also add in fruits, nuts, and assorted candies.

Today I had Chocolate with raspberries. Mmmm!

It was so creamy! Way better than regular ice cream!
Nicole had chocolate with caramel and it was so rich!
Nicole and I talked about many things and reminisced over the half marathon.

A lovely candid shot of Nicole and I before the race. Not sure what's going on...

I plan to go back when the flavor of the day is pumpkin!

Time for a hot shower, some reading, and bed!

Afternoon Tea Is In My Future

2010-11-08T20:22:00.007-05:00

Today was a good day.

Breakfast: A pumpkin pancake topped with peanut butter and banana. It was good, but I found the toppings made it to taste a little to rich for me.

The pancake recipe was a Martha Stewart recipe:
"For a spiced breakfast treat, whisk 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon each cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt; 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg; and a pinch of ground cloves. In a separate bowl, stir together 1 cup milk, 6 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 1 egg; fold mixture into dry ingredients. Melt some butter in a skillet over medium heat; pour in 1/4 cup batter for each pancake. Cook pancakes about 3 minutes per side; serve with butter and syrup. Makes 8 to 10."

Exercise: 45 Minutes of Yin Yoga. Yin yoga, according to iyogalife.com, is "characterized by long-held, passive poses that work your connective tissues and train your mind rather than muscles."
This type of yoga was perfect for me today because my joints were aching after yesterdays half marathon.

Snack: apple and half a banana

Lunch: open faced salmon sandwich with spinach leaves and garlic and herb brie cheese. Also, a mixed baby greens salad with cucumbers, sharp cheddar cheese, and strawberries! This is definitely one of my favorite lunches so far! And a cinnamon raisin cookie for dessert. :)

Dinner: Tuna Noodle Casserole and some grated carrot on the side. Kind of boring, but it filled me up.

Dessert: Strawberry Yogurt Cake! It's amazing! It reminds me of something you would eat with a fancy cup of tea in your fanciest tea cups! Hmm...I may have to start having afternoon tea in my "fancy" tea cups!

As promised, here is the recipe. (There is a glaze that goes on top but, I did not put a glaze on mine. It tastes delicious without it.)
Source: http://aspicyperspective.blogspot.com/

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
3 Tb. lemon juice, divided
Zest of 1 lemon
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided
½ tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. salt
8 oz. plain or vanilla, greek yogurt
12 oz. fresh strawberries, diced
1 cup powdered sugar

Preheat oven to 325*. Grease and flour a 10 inch Bundt pan. Sift together the 2 and 1/4 cups of flour, baking soda and salt. Mix in the lemon zest and set aside.
With an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 Tb. lemon juice. Alternate beating in the flour mixture and the yogurt, mixing just until incorporated.
Toss the strawberries with the remaining ¼ cup of flour. Gently mix them into the batter.
Pour the batter into the Bundt pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Allow to cool 10 minutes in the pan, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely. Once cooled whisk together the remaining 2 Tb. of lemon juice and the powdered sugar. Drizzle over the top of the cake.

Homework to do! Goodnight!

1:47:22

2010-11-07T16:27:00.011-05:00

ONE hour FORTY-SEVEN minutes and TWENTY TWO seconds. My official race time for the half marathon. I am SO happy!

My average mile time was 8:12. I couldn't believe it. After taking so much time off because of my foot, I didn't think I would do so well.

We woke up at 5:10. I hardly slept all night. I was afraid that I was going to miss the race because of the time change! I found this lovely message from my roommate, Katie, on the way to get breakfast:

For breakfast, I had a piece of toast with peanut butter and banana. Then I laced up and by 5:45 we were on our way to the race!

It was very cold! Everyone bundled together before the race.

Kellee, Me, Nicole, and Ida

My mom and I warming up!

Tons of people!

My award!

The race started at 7. I started with the 2 hr. 10 min. pace group, because I didn't want to start off too fast. I felt good the whole way, but there were some hills that I didn't think they would be as bad as they were. By mile 8, I was running with the 1 hr. 50 min pace group! By mile 9, I passed them! It was a really great race and I am so happy my parents and Joe were there to support me.

Afterward, we celebrated with a visit to my favorite Mexican restaurant: El Dorado!

My legs are beat!

See ya after 13.1 miles

2010-11-06T21:36:00.004-04:00

I had fun night spending time with my parents and boyfriend. We went out to a restaurant, one that I do not find worthy to put in my blog. It was just OK. I ate to eat a light dinner of fruit and chicken salad. Afterward, we had a strawberry yogurt pound cake that I made at my apartment. It was very good! Must have been the two sticks of butter and two cups of sugar! ;) I don't have time for the details of it right now, but I will post the recipe.

Early day tomorrow for the race!

That tiny person is me!

See ya after 13.1 miles!

That's a Spicy Meat-a ball-a!

2010-11-06T10:40:00.011-04:00

These past couple of days have been really fun.

Thursday Night: Mellow Mushroom was wonderful as always. Amir and I split a medium cheese pizza (sometimes, simple is the best!) and the waitress brought out pizza dough rolls covered in cinnamon, sugar, and honey for Elizabeth's birthday!

The girs!

Later on, Joe met up with us!

On Friday:
I woke up early to go tutor at the middle school. Unfortunately, I woke up for nothing! I went to the school and the teacher told me they would not be having class until 10 am. Whoops! So I went home and ate some breakfast with Joe. a small bowl of granola and milk and two scrambled eggs. We spent the rest of the morning just relaxing.
Lunch was awesome! I picked up smoked salmon at Harris teeter and made open faced sandwiches with a salad on the side.

So colorful!

The bread is a multi grain Nature's Way roll. So I made a little lemon butter to spread on top.
Lemon butter recipe:
Butter, softened
Lemon zest
Just mash the two together with a fork!
Then the sandwich was topped with spinach leaves and smoked salmon!

The salad was mixed baby greens with cucumber, sharp, cheddar cheese, and strawberries!

It was so good! One of Joe's favorite foods is smoked salmon (He is from Finland!) and he loved the sandwich!
For dessert, we had the last of the pumpkin choco muffins! I am so sad they are gone!

Afterward, we went on a run. It was around three miles and then we walked some. Oh and by the way, I have run twice now and the pain in my foot is gone! It's a miracle! My race is tomorrow, and I am so happy to know I am not going to be in excruciating pain. Can wait to tell everyone how it goes!

I also baked a delicious cake yesterday to share with my parents and Joe for dessert tonight! (I'll share more about it on my next post). Here's a sneak peak:

Then, it was time to go pick up my race packet. I am number 3584. I got a nice, long sleeve racing shirt and a cool bag with lots of goodies! Including a snack:

Dinner was awesome too! It was my pre-race dinner, so I made spaghetti and meatballs with bread and a salad. Lots of carbs!

I love meat balls. They are probably my favorite food of all time. My mom makes THE BEST meat balls. Her meat balls are not for wimps - they are huge! When she makes them I will even eat them as a snack!

I tried to mimic my mom's recipe. Beef, bread crumbs, a little garlic salt, pepper, and fresh basil. They turned out really good. The tomato sauce is just store bought Prego sauce. The salad was mixed baby greens and cucumbers.

I asked Joe if he liked Italian or Swedish meatballs better. He said Italian! This is a BIG deal - anything that is Scandinavian, to Joe, is the best. I was so proud.
Dinner made me stuffed! I even TRIED to eat dessert! (A piece of chocolate) I couldn't do it!

Later, we went to the movies and saw Due Date. It was pretty funny. Robert Downey Jr. was nice to look at and Zach Gilifanakis (no idea if I spelled his name right) is HILARIOUS!

My parents will be here soon! I have missed them!

Checklist

2010-11-04T14:05:00.003-04:00

It is cold and rainy outside today and it has made walking around campus not fun. :(

last night I went to bed a little earlier than usual, and I do think it made getting up this morning a little easier. Today, I was still a little tired though.

I woke up at 6:50 and ate a piece of whole wheat toast with peanut butter and sliced banana on top. I also had an apple with a little cinnamon on top.

During class, I had half a banana and yogurt covered raisins as a snack, and for lunch the last bit of my broccoli cheddar soup with a piece of french baguette. Plus, a few small pumpkin choco muffins for dessert. I have a request to post the broccoli cheddar soup recipe from a reader(and it isn't from my mom or Joe)! Here is the link to where you can find the recipe (Food Network): http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/almost-famous-broccoli-cheddar-soup-recipe/index.html
(copy and paste the link into the search engine)

And now it is officially my weekend!

I have lots to do to get ready for this weekend (the real two day weekend)! I need to cook, clean, do homework (and I am still debating on running on the treadmill today...), and get ready to go out to Mellow Mushroom for Elizabeth's (my roommate) birthday! She turned 21! I am so excited for some delicious pizza!

Better get going!

Dinner + Dessert

2010-11-03T21:39:00.003-04:00

Oh. My. Gawd. I just ate two of my pumpkin chocolate chip muffins I made last night. They are SO moist and good - with lots of delicious chocolate-y pumpkin-y flavor. Here is a picture, like I promised:

Recipe: http://whatsgabycooking.com/chocolate-chip-pumpkin-muffins/

For dinner tonight I had more broccoli and cheddar soup with a small piece of baguette.

I need to get some sleep! The past few days I it has been painful for me to get out of bed and I almost fell asleep in class today!

Sweet Dreams!

Needs More Pumpkin

2010-11-03T10:50:00.002-04:00

This morning I woke up at 6:50. Waking up before the sun comes up just feels unnatural, but ya gotta do what ya gotta do.

For breakfast, I had vanilla yogurt with organic Cascadian Farms cinnamon raisin granola and a small bowl of cereal.

I took a test today and got to leave class early! Whoo hoo! After my test, the first thing I did was BUY MORE PUMPKIN! It was a steal at Food lion. :)

Just had a snack of a couple crackers and extra sharp white cheddar cheese.

Today, I am going to the middle school to work with a group of seventh graders and I should be getting ready. Getting ready to go to a middle school consists of me trying to make myself look like I am NOT a middle school student. I am reluctant to admit that I do not look like I am 21 years old. Which can be unfortunate right now, but later on it in life it will become a blessing. :)

Happy Baking

2010-11-02T22:15:00.004-04:00

Tonight was wonderful because I baked! I didn't bake this past weekend, which is out of the ordinary for me, and I have had the urge to bake for a few days now. Tonight I baked Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins. I used the recipe from What's Gaby Cooking: http://whatsgabycooking.com/chocolate-chip-pumpkin-muffins/

I'll put up pictures tomorrow. :)

For dinner, I had rosemary roasted chicken, broccoli, and a piece of french baguette.

Simple Goodness.

Time for bed!

Books + Soup = Fall Comfort

2010-11-02T15:36:00.008-04:00

Yesterday our internet was not working! This was only partially frustrating because I couldn't blog. Other than that, It was kind of a relief because I caught up with reading Time Traveler's Wife. I am loving that book.

Here is my update on yesterday: After my yummy bowl of oats and I had a small snack of yogurt covered raisins (I love yogurt and have it in any form possible). It was a good snack and kept me satisfied for longer than I thought it would.

lunch was yummy and very satisfying! I had a ham sandwich, sliced apple with a dash of cinnamon on top, and Danon light and fit vanilla yogurt with Organic Cascadian Farms Cinnamon Raisin Granola. Unfortunately, I couldn't take a picture of it because my camera ran out of battery. (Technology was bailing on me right and left.)

After lunch, I charged my camera battery and went to class. I came home very excited for dinner. On the menu: Broccoli Cheddar Soup! I followed the Food Network recipe: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/almost-famous-broccoli-cheddar-soup-recipe/index.html

It came out delicious! I enjoyed it with a piece of french baguette on the side! The recipe said to top it with more cheese - but I topped it with more broccoli. I am broccoli's number one fan.

Soup is so comforting. I just love it!

For Dessert: a chocolate cookie courtesy of my roommate, Andrea! :)

I need to study! I have a test tomorrow! My internet should be working for good now - which means you'll see me after dinner! :)

Banana Oatmeal

2010-11-01T12:25:00.000-04:00

This morning I slept in until 8:50. Ate my usual half banana and peanut butter and went for a run.

I ran four miles and felt good. My foot only hurt a little bit - I am starting to have high hopes for the half marathon on Sunday! :)

After my run, I went to the store to get some groceries. I grabbed lots of good stuff - including organic granola and some ingredients for dinner this week, which I am very excited about!

When I got home I was hungry for some oatmeal!

I followed the KERF recipe for banana oats - topped with hazlenuts!

Yum-o!

Onward to tutoring!

My Favorite Pizza

2010-10-30T14:27:00.000-04:00

I woke up early this morning to take an online test and to finish off my pumpkin oatmeal. Oh, it was good. I also had a banana with peanut butter. Oh, it was good.

You know what else is good? Watching the Rally to Restore Sanity while eating homemade pizza!

My half = avocado, pineapple, and fresh basil = my new favorite pizza
Joe's half = pineapple and ham
I used a Pillsbury crust and I think it turned out pretty good!

I had mine with a basic, green salad with spinach and green peppers with some salad dressing.

We ate the whole thing - and snacked on some cinnamon raisin cookies, too (just a few bites for me).

After watching the rally, Joe and I went on a run in Umstead National Park. I was SO happy while I was running, because my foot didn't hurt! It made me so energetic throughout the run. I could hardly think about being tired because I kept on thinking about how my foot felt so good! Running on dirt trails definitely makes a difference - I hate running on concrete. I was spoiled as a runner in Asheville, because I always ran on a dirt trail.

Next it was time for our Halloween celebration with my roommates!!

Holly, Katie, Andrea, Elizabeth and I

Elizabeth and her boyfriend, Amir, made everyone dinner! They made chicken and pepper kabobs and a chicken stir fry with broccoli and carrots. It was delicious!

Joe and I went as Ali and Noah from the Notebook! I was so surprised he even agreed to do this - he is such a sweetheart!

Even the dog was in costume!

It turned out to be a great evening, despite the night being a little chilly!

On Sunday, Joe and I had eggs, raisin bran, and fruit for breakfast. I am ready to get back into the swing of things after indulging all weekend!

We enjoyed the day together by going on a walk.
I love walking in beautiful neighborhoods :)

We stumbled upon a Monster Dash 5k! Wish I could have been racing!

The runners were dressed up in Halloween costumes! It looked like so much fun!

Sadly, after our lovely afternoon walk (and fun weekend), Joe had to leave. I already miss him so much!

Happy Halloween!

Pumpkin Oatmeal

2010-10-28T21:55:00.001-04:00

This morning I woke up at 7 am to meet my friend Nicole to go on a run. She told me about the half marathon (which is next week!)and is participating in it, as well. Here is a picture of Nicole and I:

Me on the left, Nicole on the right.
It was at a party a couple of years ago, hence the strange get-up.

We planned on running a good, long run, but I could only make it four miles before my foot started hurting. It was very disappointing because the past couple of days my foot hasn't been hurting at all. The race is coming up and I am hoping that I can just finish at this point. :/

We stopped running early and I went home and decided to cook up some pumpkin oatmeal to make me feel better! I used the recipe from the blog goodLife {eats}. Follow the link to see the recipe (and a really awesome blog, too!):

It was really yummy and I have some leftover for the next couple of days! Yay!
I also had some yogurt with sliced apple, too. Can't get enough of that stuff!

Later, I went to class and ate half a banana as a snack (I had the other half for breakfast with peanut butter before my run). Then, I went to the grocery store! I was in there for about an hour just to get a few things! I think my problem is that I have trouble finding certain things in the grocery store (and some things I wanted I never found, so I have to go back tomorrow). But I have some good ideas for delicious meals this weekend, and I can't wait to post them!

By the time I got home it was four o'clock! I was really hungry. I hate late lunches, because then I am not hungry at dinner time and end up eating dinner late, as well. I had tuna on toast (x2) and some yogurt (and a few mini candies after that). I did really well about not eating any sweets yesterday! I was so proud (they are my weakness, big time).

Dinner rolled around and I had some leftovers: chicken, rice, and baked beans. It was okay...my dinner plans for this weekend are MUCH better and better for you, too.

Joe is going to be here soon! :)

New Friend

2010-10-25T23:29:00.000-04:00

After my evening class today, I went to the grocery store. I was in dire need for yogurt! I browsed and selected other random things, like old fashioned oats to make my own oatmeal. By the time I left the store I didn't realize how hungry I was. It was seven o'clock! I still had dinner to make...

Luckily, as I walked into the door my roommate's were making chicken and rice and offered me some. I was delighted to partake and it was really good! Thanks Katie and Chandler!

Later, I "studied" and made a new friend. Meet Luka.

He is my roommate's cat and is so adorable. I am a cat person. I always receive cat related things as presents. I had a cat of my own, but she died my senior year of high school. I have been a cat for Halloween for many years (You don't need to know how many, because it might freak you out.) However, this year, I am dressing up as something different for Halloween...

You will find out soon enough.
Sweet Dreams!

Running Low

2010-10-25T15:26:00.000-04:00

This morning, I woke up at 8 am to do short easy run. I ran three miles yesterday, as well. Needless to say, after not running for a week I was tired, but I am not going to let that get me down. I am just going to make the best of race day and have fun!

But back to today...I ate half a banana with some peanut butter for some energy. I didn't get going until 8:45.

I ran three miles. The loop that I usually run at is fairly hilly. My foot hurt a little bit, but I made sure to stretch really well after my run. I plan to take a day or so off of running to give my foot a rest.

When I got back to my apartment I made myself breakfast. I had whole wheat toast with strawberry preservatives, two scrambled eggs, and some cantaloupe. It was really yummy and held me over (while I studied for my anthropology test) until twelve thirty for lunch.

Chicken Noodle Soup was for lunch. It's still yummy and delicious and it warms my soul. Unfortunately, I was craving something sweet after my soup and usually I will have a yogurt with fruit to curb a sweet craving but I had no more yogurt or fruit! So I ended up indulging in two small cookies...and a few bites of a homemade rice crispy treat... :/ I think it's time to get some yogurt and fruit after class tonight!

After lunch, I headed to a nearby middle school where I tutor. I am studying Middle School education with a concentration in language arts and social studies. I tutor for about an hour at least once a week. So far I have enjoyed working with individual students.

That's all for right now...
On to studying more anthropology!

Fall Festivities

2010-10-24T20:46:00.000-04:00

This weekend was so much fun!

After breakfast on Saturday morning, Joe and I went to the mall. Joe wanted to purchase some new winter gloves and a hat (I think he is eager for the ski season!). He also bought part of his Halloween costume! Then, we stopped in Williams-Sonoma "just to browse" (actually more like, dream). I dreamed about all of the various jars of pumpkin I could buy: Pecan Pumpkin Butter, Pumpkin Curry, and Pumpkin Parmesan. But at 10+ bucks a pop, I had to refrain.

Joe got a kick out of the Star Wars Display.

Joe insisted that I buy a peeler. I tend to make him peel produce in the kitchen, and I don't have a peeler so he always groans about having to peel with a knife. I had no complaints about buying it! It was my first official Williams-Sonoma purchase at $3.50! It's absolutely glorious!

At my apartment, I had homemade chicken noodle soup waiting for us in the crockpot. I also made BLT sandwiches. The soup was really good with lots of chunky vegetables and big pieces of chicken. I have plenty of leftovers! :)

After lounging around for a while, we headed out for a night at the North Carolina State Fair.

I was determined to: 1. eat fair food and 2. go on the PERFECT Ferris wheel ride with my man.

We successfully accomplished task one. We had hot dogs/corn dogs and fries for dinner. For some reason my hot dog was a bright red color, which kind of freaked me out. But I decided to not ask questions and just eat it. :/ For dessert, a frozen chocolate covered banana with nuts and sprinkles. YUM.

As for the second task, there were three different Ferris wheels I had to pick from. Joe swore they were all the same. I swore one was more fun than the other. We walked all around the fair together and we picked the perfect one.

We waited in line, handed in our tickets, and climbed aboard. Just as we reached the top of the ride, fireworks started going off!

How awesome is that?!

Perfect Ferris wheel ride with my man = success.

On Sunday (the sad day Joe has to leave), we carved a HUGE pumpkin.

We had a few choices of what we wanted to carve. The verdict...

The winking pumpkin!

The Amazing Pumpkin Carver. :)

Happy Fall!

Lovely Fall Day

2010-10-23T01:30:00.000-04:00

I love fall. I love the changing leaves, the weather, and THE FOOD! And today was such a beautiful fall day.

After breakfast, Joe and I went to a park and had a picnic.

It consisted of sharp cheddar cheese, apples, pita chips and hummus, and chocolate and toasted coconut covered graham crackers (I made those!)

Chocolate and toasted coconut covered graham crackers! (Courtesy of Martha Stewart)
They were SO good and really easy to make. Joe ate almost all of them in one sitting!

After our picnic, we climbed on a couple of man made boulders within the park. Joe LOVES to rock climb. He had been wanting to visit the park for a while and today was definitely a great day for it.

I saw paved running trails within the park and I was DYING to go for a run. My foot feels a lot better but I still don't think I am ready to start running again. I think by next week I will be able to run easily/cycle, just to get some easy training in before the race.

He looks like Spiderman!

When we finished climbing we decided it was to nice to go back inside. So, we went on a walk at the Arboretum.

Hybrid Tea Rose. They smelled amazing.

Joe peeking out of the bushes!

Later for dinner I made Joe grilled Kielbasa sausage with a traditional German potato salad (it has bacon in it!) It was not the most healthy dinner but we enjoyed it :)

And for dessert some apple danish!

(apple danish in the making)

After dinner, we saw a late night movie (we see A LOT of movies). We saw Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps. It was pretty good. Joe seemed to really like it. There was a little love story involved, which I always like. :)

I gotta run! I should be studying for the three tests I have this week!

Grocery Store Blues

2010-10-21T22:15:00.000-04:00

I got my flu shot today. Have you been vaccinated yet? Every year since I have been in college, I have been vaccinated. Yucky stuff goes around at college campuses.

After class and my vaccination, I went to the grocery store to get groceries for the weekend. I was in there for an hour and forty five minutes. I spent thirty dollars. It was one of those days. As a fairly new foodie, I have serious indecisive issues. Many questions fly through my head as I shop. "Should I try this? Is this healthy? Should I spend the money?" Hopefully, as time goes on, I will become a more efficient grocery shopper. Like everything, it takes practice, which is fine with me. :)

And FINALLY today was the first day I have gotten a chance to bake in a four weeks. It made me happy.

I have a few pictures of my baking projects but for some reason they are having trouble loading. So I will try to post them another time.

Joe is on his way and should be here soon, I will post updates about our weekend.

Cheers!

PS - Here, is a foot update: It still hurts. Not as badly, though. I did some calf and foot stretches today and I am hoping those will help.

Whoops!

2010-10-19T23:33:00.000-04:00

I am disappointed in myself for not keeping up with my blog as well as I had originally hoped. But for the sake of my mother, and whoever else may read this I will try to revive my blog as best as I can. School and driving back and forth to see Joe has kept me pretty busy lately. I have also taken on the challenge of running a half marathon. Unfortunately, just recently I have developed a foot injury and it has set back my training. I am just hoping that it will be all better by race day, which is in a couple of weeks. This weekend Joe is coming to visit me (we attend different colleges), so I am really excited about cooking for him this weekend. I have some good ideas brewing in my mind. :)

It is getting late now, and I need to wake up early for class tomorrow!

Mascarpone Chocolate Toffee Bars

2010-07-16T15:34:00.000-04:00

Let me first start out by saying, Yum.

This was my first recipe ever using Mascarpone cheese. I had no idea the stuff even existed before! After I bought it, I was surprised to see that it tasted more like butter than cheese.

The Toffee Bars were super easy to make and REALLY good. I will definitely be making them again.

For this recipe, you will need:

1 lb. of store bought sugar cookie dough (this makes your life a lot easier!)
2 (1.4 ounces) chocolate-toffee candy bars, chopped and divided (recommended: Heath bar)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 cup (8 ounces) Mascarpone cheese
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted (watch the almonds when you toast them - I burnt mine the first time!)

1. Preheat the oven 350 degrees F. Spray a 9 x 13 baking pan with vegetable cooking spray. Lay a piece of parchment paper down and allow excess paper to overhang the sides. Spray parchment paper lightly with cooking spray.

2. In a medium bowl combine cookie dough, half of the toffee bar candy pieces and vanilla extract. Using damp fingers, gently press dough into prepared pan. Using a fork prick the dough all over. Bake 12 to 14 minutes until the crust is lightly browned. Cool for 15 minutes.

3. Place chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a medium bowl. Place bowl over pan of simmering water and stir until chocolate has melted. Cool the chocolate mixture for ten minutes. Whisk in mascarpone cheese until smooth.

4. Using a spatula, spread chocolate mixture over cooled crust. Sprinkle remaining toffee pieces and sliced almonds over chocolate mixture. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until the chocolate layer is firm.

5. Peel off the parchment paper and cut into small squares. Serve at room temperature and enjoy!

**Toast the almonds at 350 degrees F for a few minutes - depending on your oven. (I only toasted mine for three minutes (until they are lightly browned).

This recipe is another Giada DeLaurentiis recipe.

Crispy Parmesan Biscuits - My first of many Giada Recipes

2010-06-26T11:44:00.000-04:00

I think it is time to let you guys know that I love Giada De Laurentiis. I watch her show religiously, but I have never made one of her recipes - until now. It definitely was a perfect recipe, just as I imagined.

I brought my boyfriend (his name is Joe, by the way) lunch, while he was at work. He loves smoked salmon (he is from Finland, by the way) so when I saw Giada make the Crispy Parmesan biscuits with smoked salmon, lemon butter, and baby arugula, I knew I had to make the recipe for him.

Ingredients:

1.5 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 stick unsalted butter, cut into cubes
2 cups Parmesan Cheese
1/2 cup finely chopped green onion
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup lemon butter (recipe follows below)
3 cups baby arugula
10 ounces smoked salmon

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Add the butter. Using fingertips or a pastry blender, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles course meal.

Stir in the Parmesan and green onions. Add the buttermilk and olive oil. Stir until the mixture forms a dough. Drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in 12 equal-sized pieces.

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden. Cool biscuits for ten minutes then transfer to rack to cool completely.

Slice each biscuit in half (I found this part to be the most challenging part of the recpe! Be gentle!) and spread bottom half with 1 teaspoon of lemon butter. Add some arugula leaves and place a small slice of smoked salmon on top. Add the top half of the biscuit and serve.

Yield: 12 Biscuits

Lemon Butter Recipe:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 lemon, zested

In a small bowl, mash the butter and lemon zest together using a fork. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Yield: 1/2 cup

Layer Cakes Galore

2010-06-01T00:44:00.000-04:00

Over the past week, I made two layer cakes. Both, being the first two layer cakes I have ever made.

The first - a sponge layer cake with raspberry jam, whipped cream, and strawberries.

(There was another cake layer topped with powdered sugar, as well.)

For this cake you will need:

3/4 cup butter, softened
plus extra for greasing
1 and 1/4 cups self rising flour
1 tsp baking powder
3/4 cup superfine sugar
3 eggs
confectioners' sugar, sifted, for dusting
3 tbsp raspberry jam
1 and 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped
16 fresh strawberries, halved

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease the bottom of two 8 inch round cake pans.

2. Sift flour and baking powder into a bowl and add the butter, sugar, and eggs. Mix together and beat well until smooth. Divide mixture between the pans evenly.

3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until well risen and golden brown. Cool in pans for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Sandwich together with jam, cream, and strawberries halves.
I also added a little sugar to the cream to sweeten it up just a bit.

5. Dust with confectioners sugar and enjoy!

This recipe is from Frame by Frame Baking by Christine Last.

The second - I am very proud of. This is my most celebrated recipe of my blog so far. I made it for my boyfriend's sister on her birthday. She loves white chocolate so I wanted to make her a white chocolate cake. I evolved a recipe from a few different recipes and it couldn't have turned out better. It was a delicious, moist layer cake topped with white chocolate whipped cream with white and dark chocolate shavings. I dream about it every night.

For this wonderful recipe, you will need:

For the cake-
1 box of White cake mix
1/2 cup of sugar
1 box of vanilla instant pudding
1 cup (8 oz.) of Sour cream
3/4 cup water
1/4 cup oil
4 eggs

For the white chocolate whipped cream-
1 and 1/4 cup heavy cream
5 and 1/2 oz of white chocolate, chopped
plus extra for shavings
3 oz dark chocolate

You will need to prepare the topping the night before:

1. Put the cream in a pan over low heat and bring to a boil, constantly stirring. Add the chocolate and stir until it is melted.

2. Pour into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and chill overnight.

The next day:

1. Mix cake mix, sugar, and instant pudding in a large bowl. Add sour cream, water, and oil. Mix well.

2. Add eggs one at a time, until well blended.

3. Pour into two 8 inch round cake pans and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 27-32 minutes.

4. Take out the whipped topping mixture from the fridge and beat it until it makes stiff peaks. You can add some heavy cream at this point to adjust the sweetness if you would like.

5. Allow the cake layers to cool for fifteen minutes or so. Sandwich the layer cakes with some of the whipped topping.

6. Add the rest of the whipped topping to the top of the cake.

7. Grate 1 oz of white chocolate as garnish.

8. Melt 3 oz. of dark chocolate and drizzle over the top for garnish, as well.

9. Enjoy!

The great thing about this recipe is that you can use any sort of box cake and instant pudding flavors. You can totally make it your own! Have Fun!

Whipped topping is adapted from the cookbook Delicious Suppers.

Chocolate Chunk Banana Bread

2010-05-17T22:59:00.000-04:00

My boyfriend and I are big fans of chocolate and banana flavors rolled into one. So, I made chocolate banana bread that was out of this world and brought it to him as a surprise (with the turkey sandwich from below)!

You will need:

3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature,
plus more for preparing loaf pans
All-purpose flour for preparing loaf pans
3 1/4 cups cake flour
1/2 t baking soda
4 t baking powder
1/4 t kosher salt
1 1/3 cups sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups mashed ripe bananas
2/3 cup sour cream
2 cups of semisweet chocolate chunks or morsels (It isn't chocolate chunk bread without a LOT of chocolate chunks! original recipe = 1 cup)

1. Preheat the oven to 350F. Butter two 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pans and then dust the pans with all-purpose flour, tapping out the excess.

2. In a large bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, using the electric mixer set on medium speed, cream together the 3/4 cup butter and sugar until light yellow and creamy.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the bananas and sour cream. Beat until incorporated. Add the flour mixture in 3 batches, beating after each addition just until the flour disappears.

5. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the chocolate. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

Bake for 20 minutes, then rotate the pans 180 degrees. Continue to bake until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean, about 30 minutes longer. Remove from the oven and set on a wire rack to cool for at least 15 minutes before removing from the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Makes 2 loaves

Here I am - mixing the batter!

I found this recipe from Nordstrom Friend's and Family Cookbook.

Turkey Sandwich with a Sweet Twist

2010-05-05T10:52:00.000-04:00

I decided to surprise my boyfriend the other day with a picnic lunch. I wanted to make him something easy and portable, but still fun and different. I was looking through a few of my cook books and found the "Plymouth Turkey Sandwich" in Katie Brown's "Weekends." The recipe consisted of a spread with cranberry preserves and cream cheese.

I went to the grocery store and could find every sort of preserves EXCEPT cranberry preserves. So, I got raspberry preserves - and it was AWESOME. My boyfriend loved it too, so much that that I had to make two sandwiches for him! If you love sweet and savory together - this is a perfect recipe for you.

All you need:

4 oz. of cream cheese
1/2 cup of raspberry preserves
8 slices of Oatmeal bread (first time I tried this bread - I LOVE IT. I found it in the Bakery rather than the bread isle.)
1/2 lb. of Roasted or smoked turkey, thinly sliced
Lettuce, torn into strips (the kind of lettuce is up to you - I had Iceberg lettuce at home so that is what I used)

SERVES 4

1. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and raspberry preserves at medium speed until smooth.
2. Take two pieces of bread and spread raspberry cream cheese spread onto both pieces.
3. Add turkey and lettuce to sandwich.
4. Enjoy!!

Mint Chocolate Mousse

2010-04-25T21:55:00.000-04:00

In hopes of impressing Paula Deen, I planned to make a Mint Chocolate Mousse served in Chocolate Cups. I had this image in my mind of how beautiful the chocolate cups would turn out and how Paula Deen would just bow down to my recipe and select me as a finalist for her "Real Women of Philadelphia Contest." (For those of you who don't know, Paula Deen is hosting a cooking contest with Philadelphia Cream Cheese. She picks 2 finalists, each week for 8 weeks, who have submitted a video involving a delicious dish with Philadelphia Cream Cheese in it.) Unfortunately, I don't think my dream is going to happen. Don't get me wrong - the mint chocolate mousse is wonderful! The chocolate cups though, those were what was going to put my dessert at the top. They would have made my presentation so beautiful! I found the idea off a food blog. And it looked so easy! Basically, you melt baking chocolate and then dip a blown up balloon into the chocolate, put them in the fridge for a little while, deflate the balloon - and voila! A chocolate cup!

After attempting the chocolate cups twice, both times the chocolate deflated miserably with the balloon, I moved on. I made my recipe, in a tiny college kitchen, and submitted my video. (One day, I will conquer those chocolate cups!)

On a better note, here is my mousse recipe! It's fresh and rich and perfect for summertime! The philly cream cheese makes it ultra creamy with a bit of tangy-ness. And if you love Andes mints - this recipe is for you!

You'll need:

1 8 oz. package of Philadelphia Cream Cheese
1 cup heavy whipping cream
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup baking cocoa
1/4 tsp. mint extract
Andes Mints grated lengthwise, as garnish

In a bowl, mix heavy cream on a high speed until it makes stiff peaks.
In a separate bowl, mix sugar and cream cheese on a medium speed until smooth.
Add mint extract and cocoa powder to cream cheese and sugar mixture and beat on a low speed until everything is mixed in evenly.
Add half of the heavy cream to the mixture and mix on a medium speed.
Once you have added the half of the heavy cream, fold in the rest of the cream into the mixture.
Serve your Mint Chocolate Mousse on a plate or in a bowl topped with grated Andes Mints as garnish.
Enjoy!

*I found the basis of this recipe (then I put a personal spin on it) at http://www.bellalimento.com; a beautiful blog with beautiful food.