I will turn 30 in January of 2014. That gives me nearly 3 years to make a go at this benchmark birthday list. Note to self-no excuses.
1. Learn to sew...something. And then practice it to further the skill.
2. Landscape the backyard.
3. Take an epic trip.
4. Go to the Getty.
5. Find my perfect shade of red lipstick.
6. Do a daring activity. Possibly sky diving.
7. Find an exercise activity beyond walking and do it regularly not sporadically.
8. Visit the south.
9. Go to Napa.
10. Find some coveralls and take a tour of the space under our house. The attic and I are already acquainted.
11. Find my favorite bottle of wine. Not just the cheap stuff.
12. Make a fabulous four course dinner.
13-30 have not been defined, but then again I have the next 3 years to figure them out.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Phoenix Karaoke-Thank You-Have a Nice Day
I have no idea why it has taken me so long to go Karaoke Asian style. OMG it is amazing. Private rooms with T-Pain-like acoustics and goofy visuals behind the lyrics. Add in smuggled beer and wine and it is a party.
And since it's private, you don't have to wait for the general public to have their turn and hope you get the opportunity-I sang about 10 songs, and all together we probably sang close to 30. It was EPIC. I even stayed out until 11:30 on a work night. Who's a grandma?!?!
Such a natural. If I don't say so myself.
Not everyone wanted their photo taken.
The lovely Ms. Lappin channeling her inner James Taylor or perhaps a Backstreet Boy.
The Crew. After we got rid of the booze.
And since it's private, you don't have to wait for the general public to have their turn and hope you get the opportunity-I sang about 10 songs, and all together we probably sang close to 30. It was EPIC. I even stayed out until 11:30 on a work night. Who's a grandma?!?!
Such a natural. If I don't say so myself.
Not everyone wanted their photo taken.
The lovely Ms. Lappin channeling her inner James Taylor or perhaps a Backstreet Boy.
The Crew. After we got rid of the booze.Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Raining Cats and Dogs
Gratuitous shot of my cat since I don't have a kid.We have had rain four days straight in Southern California. The rain is constant, heavy at times, and thus makes for many Murphy's Law scenarios.
1. The locks on my car have gone bad. Not just the driver side, but now the passenger. Not sure if I'll be able to drive to work today.
2. The kitchen ceiling is leaking. I just KNEW something was going to happen during this storm! It's by no means bad, but I am an expert worrier and thus very concerned since the worst of the storm is this afternoon and tonight. Everything is a first in the new house. We've now been through a heat wave and days of downpours.
It's times like these I'm glad I don't live on a hill.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Adventures in Babysitting
It's been a good 10 years since I babysat anyone willingly until my nephew came along. I watched him for a few hours on Thursday night and it was a complete joy. He sat on my lap, chewed on Sophie the giraffe, clutched his buddy, and giggled up a storm at Oliver. If I didn't have him on my right and Oliver napping at my lap, I would have taken a photo our troupe.
I did get one though:
Oliver did not know what to make of this mini human who wanted to pet him. He strategically positioned himself nestled next to me on the opposite side. Again, no photo. Having a baby renders me immobile with the use of extra limbs.
I did get one though:
Oliver did not know what to make of this mini human who wanted to pet him. He strategically positioned himself nestled next to me on the opposite side. Again, no photo. Having a baby renders me immobile with the use of extra limbs.
Real Simple Dinners
The grocery gods must have been reading my blog because my first issue of Real Simple came last Friday and in it-5 days worth of weeknight meals. My shopping list was so easy to make! Being my first issue I'm not sure if they do this each time, but I definitely enjoy if so.
Here's some suggestions for those out there looking for some new ideas during the week.
MONDAY (economical, easy)
Barbecue pork sandwiches
Cut one pork tenderloin crosswise in 4 pieces. Place in saucepan with 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, 1 tablespoon cider vinegar, and 1/2 cup water. Simmer, covered until fork tender, 18-20 minutes. Shred the meat and serve on buns with potato chips. They also suggested coleslaw and pickles, but they aren't in my house.
Review: Tasty! Made enough for four sandwiches so we both had a great leftovers the next day. And of course, I added provolone because a meal without cheese is a meal not worth having.
TUESDAY (heart healthy)
Spiced cod with broccoli quinoa pilaf
3 tbs olive oil
1/2 small onion, chopped
Salt and pepper
1 cup quinoa, rinsed well
2 cups chopped broccoli
1/4 raisins (I omitted)
1/2 cup chopped almonds (I omitted)
2 scallions, sliced
2 6 oz skinless cod, halibut, or striped bass filet
1/2 tsp paprika
Heat 1 tsp of oil in saucepan over med-high heat. Add onion and season with salt and pepper. Cook until softened and starting to brown, 3-4 mins.
Add the quinoa and 1 1/2 cups water to saucepan and bring to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently until almost all water has evaporated, 10-12 minutes. Fold the broccoli and raisins into the quinoa, cover and cook until the quinoa and broccoli are tender, 8-10 mins more. Remove from heat and fold in almonds, scallions, salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, heat remaining olive oil in skillet over med-high heat. Season the cod with paprika, salt and pepper and cook until opaque, 3-4 minutes.
Even more meanwhile, I served this with roasted butternut squash for some more color. And Scott likes two sides.
Rating: Fish was ok. I think we enjoy halibut more (only could find cod). Pilaf was great as was the butternut squash.
WEDNESDAY (one pot)
Chicken with white beans and tomatoes
1 15 oz can cannellini beans, rinsed (I used garbanzo)
1 pint grape tomatoes
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 sprigs fresh oregano (I forgot this, used dried)
2 garlic cloves, smashed
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (I used boneless, skinless)
Heat oven to 425. In a 9 x 13 baking dish, toss the beans, tomatoes with the thyme and oregano, garlic, red pepper, olive oil, salt and pepper .
Pat chicken dry and place on top of the bean mixture (skin side up, if you are using skinned). Rub with oil, season with salt and pepper.
Roast until chicken is golden and cooked through, 35-45 mins. Sprinkle with oregano leaves (if you remembered to buy them.)
Review: Tasty. Big points for a one pot meal. Good leftovers the next day too.
THURSDAY (slow cooker)
Coffee-braised brisket with potatoes and carrots
1 med onion, quartered
6 small potatoes, halved
1/2 lb carrots, cut into 2" pieces
Beef brisket (I think mine was about 1.5 pounds)
1 6 oz can tomato paste
1/2 cup brewed black coffee
2 tbs Worcestershire sauce
2 tbs packed brown sugar
2 tbsp flat leaf parsley
Country bread (optional)
In the bottom of a slow cooker, combine the onion, potatoes, and carrots. Season the beef with salt and pepper and place on top the vegetables.
In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, coffee, Worcestshire sauce, and brown sugar; pour over the beef and veggies. Cover and cook on low until tender, about 8 hours.
Slice the beef across the grain and serve with veggies and sauce, sprinkled with parsley. Serve with bread if desired.
Review: Love the convenience of a crock pot and the smell upon entering the house. My brisket was still a bit tough, even with the extended "keep warm" setting. Ok overall.
FRIDAY
Flaky Mushroom and Gruyere Tarts (vegetarian)
1 sheet puff pastry (half a 17.3-ounce package), thawed
4 tablespoons olive oil
10 ounces assorted mushrooms (such as button, cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
1 shallot, sliced
kosher salt and black pepper
1/4 cup dry white wine
4 ounces Gruyère or sharp white Cheddar, grated (1 cup)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
4 ounces mixed greens (6 cups)
2 radishes, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Heat oven to 400° F. Unfold the pastry and cut it into 4 squares. Place the squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet and, using a fork, prick the dough all over.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and shallot and season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook, tossing occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the wine and cook until nearly evaporated, about 1 minute more.
Dividing evenly, sprinkle the pastry squares with half the cheese, leaving a ½-inch border on each. Top with the mushroom mixture and remaining cheese. Bake until the pastry is golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk together the mustard, vinegar, the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Add the greens and radishes and toss to coat. Serve the tarts with the salad and sprinkle with the chives.
Hands down my favorite of the week. Simple, delicious, and I definitely had more than my share.
All photos and recipes courtesy of Real Simple Magazine.
Here's some suggestions for those out there looking for some new ideas during the week.
MONDAY (economical, easy)
Barbecue pork sandwiches
Cut one pork tenderloin crosswise in 4 pieces. Place in saucepan with 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, 1 tablespoon cider vinegar, and 1/2 cup water. Simmer, covered until fork tender, 18-20 minutes. Shred the meat and serve on buns with potato chips. They also suggested coleslaw and pickles, but they aren't in my house.
Review: Tasty! Made enough for four sandwiches so we both had a great leftovers the next day. And of course, I added provolone because a meal without cheese is a meal not worth having.
TUESDAY (heart healthy)
Spiced cod with broccoli quinoa pilaf
3 tbs olive oilSalt and pepper
1 cup quinoa, rinsed well
2 cups chopped broccoli
1/4 raisins (I omitted)
1/2 cup chopped almonds (I omitted)
2 scallions, sliced
2 6 oz skinless cod, halibut, or striped bass filet
1/2 tsp paprika
Heat 1 tsp of oil in saucepan over med-high heat. Add onion and season with salt and pepper. Cook until softened and starting to brown, 3-4 mins.
Add the quinoa and 1 1/2 cups water to saucepan and bring to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently until almost all water has evaporated, 10-12 minutes. Fold the broccoli and raisins into the quinoa, cover and cook until the quinoa and broccoli are tender, 8-10 mins more. Remove from heat and fold in almonds, scallions, salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, heat remaining olive oil in skillet over med-high heat. Season the cod with paprika, salt and pepper and cook until opaque, 3-4 minutes.
Even more meanwhile, I served this with roasted butternut squash for some more color. And Scott likes two sides.
Rating: Fish was ok. I think we enjoy halibut more (only could find cod). Pilaf was great as was the butternut squash.
WEDNESDAY (one pot)
Chicken with white beans and tomatoes
1 15 oz can cannellini beans, rinsed (I used garbanzo)
1 pint grape tomatoes
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 sprigs fresh oregano (I forgot this, used dried)
2 garlic cloves, smashed
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (I used boneless, skinless)
Heat oven to 425. In a 9 x 13 baking dish, toss the beans, tomatoes with the thyme and oregano, garlic, red pepper, olive oil, salt and pepper .
Pat chicken dry and place on top of the bean mixture (skin side up, if you are using skinned). Rub with oil, season with salt and pepper.
Roast until chicken is golden and cooked through, 35-45 mins. Sprinkle with oregano leaves (if you remembered to buy them.)
Review: Tasty. Big points for a one pot meal. Good leftovers the next day too.
THURSDAY (slow cooker)
Coffee-braised brisket with potatoes and carrots
1 med onion, quartered
6 small potatoes, halved
1/2 lb carrots, cut into 2" pieces
Beef brisket (I think mine was about 1.5 pounds)
1 6 oz can tomato paste
1/2 cup brewed black coffee
2 tbs Worcestershire sauce
2 tbs packed brown sugar
2 tbsp flat leaf parsley
Country bread (optional)
In the bottom of a slow cooker, combine the onion, potatoes, and carrots. Season the beef with salt and pepper and place on top the vegetables.
In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, coffee, Worcestshire sauce, and brown sugar; pour over the beef and veggies. Cover and cook on low until tender, about 8 hours.
Slice the beef across the grain and serve with veggies and sauce, sprinkled with parsley. Serve with bread if desired.
Review: Love the convenience of a crock pot and the smell upon entering the house. My brisket was still a bit tough, even with the extended "keep warm" setting. Ok overall.
FRIDAY
Flaky Mushroom and Gruyere Tarts (vegetarian)
1 sheet puff pastry (half a 17.3-ounce package), thawed4 tablespoons olive oil
10 ounces assorted mushrooms (such as button, cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
1 shallot, sliced
kosher salt and black pepper
1/4 cup dry white wine
4 ounces Gruyère or sharp white Cheddar, grated (1 cup)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
4 ounces mixed greens (6 cups)
2 radishes, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Heat oven to 400° F. Unfold the pastry and cut it into 4 squares. Place the squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet and, using a fork, prick the dough all over.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and shallot and season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook, tossing occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the wine and cook until nearly evaporated, about 1 minute more.
Dividing evenly, sprinkle the pastry squares with half the cheese, leaving a ½-inch border on each. Top with the mushroom mixture and remaining cheese. Bake until the pastry is golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk together the mustard, vinegar, the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Add the greens and radishes and toss to coat. Serve the tarts with the salad and sprinkle with the chives.
Hands down my favorite of the week. Simple, delicious, and I definitely had more than my share.
All photos and recipes courtesy of Real Simple Magazine.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
The Smog Check Fairy
A few weeks ago, I went to AAA to pay our car registrations (it's the most wonderful time of the year with those due now too!) and it was the first time I actually opened the entire form. Oh look, we both need smog checks. And I'm already here. Curses to one and all. So, I pay, for validating the trip, and get the list for AAA-approved smog check locations.
Fast forward a week and I make my appointment for Wednesday at 12:30, to go during my lunch hour. It should also be noted I'm driving Scott's truck today because we're picking up couches and because the smog check will get done. I arrive, tell them I'm Erin with the 12:30 appointment and am met with,
"Oh yeah, you're the 12:30."
"Yep, that's me."
"The mechanic went to lunch. I guess he forgot you were coming. Well, here let's fill out some forms. I'm not really sure how much it is." WTF? There is a giant sign behind him with posted pricing. Truck smog check reads $65. And why did the mechanic go to lunch?
"Well the sign behind you says $65 and when is he due back?"
"Yes, but we like to quote $100, just in case. And he should be back soon." WTF part II. And famous last words. He's back just as soon as your forgotten about entree is entered into the system at the Macaroni Grill.
"Umm, I'm not okay with that. It's posted as $65, why are you quoting me a $100?"
"It's just what we do."
I should note again I have a tendency in these situations to sometimes lose my grip on the fact that this is wrong, BUT I have certain people I channel, kind like a What Would Scott/Kerri/Krissy/Do. They are my benchmarks for not standing for idiots and idiotic behavior.
So, the little front desk man (I really hope it was his first day) went to the back to find someone and appease me from the back. Said man appears, apologizes for the mechanic's absence and tells me to go see Chuck down the street. Awesome, let's hope I can find Chuck with the directions you just gave me.
By now, I think there is a camera crew following me.
I find Chuck, walk in, he greets me with a smile and I tell him the story above, and he laughs.
"I don't take a lunch." I also notice he's pretty much always open except for the sign posting not so on The Lord's Day.
"Give me ten minutes."
I sit down, expecting him to come back when he's ready to start and when he does, he tell me I pass.
"You're done?!?!"
"Oh yes, all done."
"They told me it would take an hour!"
He smiled at me like Mr. Miyagi and went on to tell me how healthy I was because I smiled so much (well no kidding, he just took 10 minutes, quoted me $10 less than first people, AND gave me a $10 discount. It was the stuff dreams were made of.)
I thanked him, told him I'd be back the next day with my own car, so he gave me a $15 discount coupon. It all seemed to good to be true.
He left me with what could have been an ancient Chinese proverb. "A happy heart is a healthy heart."
God bless Chuck for running his business in a manner that makes sense. If you are local and need a smog check, he stocked me well with those coupons.
Fast forward a week and I make my appointment for Wednesday at 12:30, to go during my lunch hour. It should also be noted I'm driving Scott's truck today because we're picking up couches and because the smog check will get done. I arrive, tell them I'm Erin with the 12:30 appointment and am met with,
"Oh yeah, you're the 12:30."
"Yep, that's me."
"The mechanic went to lunch. I guess he forgot you were coming. Well, here let's fill out some forms. I'm not really sure how much it is." WTF? There is a giant sign behind him with posted pricing. Truck smog check reads $65. And why did the mechanic go to lunch?
"Well the sign behind you says $65 and when is he due back?"
"Yes, but we like to quote $100, just in case. And he should be back soon." WTF part II. And famous last words. He's back just as soon as your forgotten about entree is entered into the system at the Macaroni Grill.
"Umm, I'm not okay with that. It's posted as $65, why are you quoting me a $100?"
"It's just what we do."
I should note again I have a tendency in these situations to sometimes lose my grip on the fact that this is wrong, BUT I have certain people I channel, kind like a What Would Scott/Kerri/Krissy/Do. They are my benchmarks for not standing for idiots and idiotic behavior.
So, the little front desk man (I really hope it was his first day) went to the back to find someone and appease me from the back. Said man appears, apologizes for the mechanic's absence and tells me to go see Chuck down the street. Awesome, let's hope I can find Chuck with the directions you just gave me.
By now, I think there is a camera crew following me.
I find Chuck, walk in, he greets me with a smile and I tell him the story above, and he laughs.
"I don't take a lunch." I also notice he's pretty much always open except for the sign posting not so on The Lord's Day.
"Give me ten minutes."
I sit down, expecting him to come back when he's ready to start and when he does, he tell me I pass.
"You're done?!?!"
"Oh yes, all done."
"They told me it would take an hour!"
He smiled at me like Mr. Miyagi and went on to tell me how healthy I was because I smiled so much (well no kidding, he just took 10 minutes, quoted me $10 less than first people, AND gave me a $10 discount. It was the stuff dreams were made of.)
I thanked him, told him I'd be back the next day with my own car, so he gave me a $15 discount coupon. It all seemed to good to be true.
He left me with what could have been an ancient Chinese proverb. "A happy heart is a healthy heart."
God bless Chuck for running his business in a manner that makes sense. If you are local and need a smog check, he stocked me well with those coupons.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Today Show
I'm slightly behind in watching this video, though aware of it, and now that I finally got a chance to see it, I love it! Maybe it's because of the song which reminds me of my best friend's wedding, or maybe it's because of cheesy "choreography" with the lyrics.
I'm pretty naive when it comes to tv production and was rather to surprised to see nearly everyone is a producer of some kind. And where was my friend Stacy London?
Enjoy, if you are like me and about 4 weeks behind popular videos.
I'm pretty naive when it comes to tv production and was rather to surprised to see nearly everyone is a producer of some kind. And where was my friend Stacy London?
Enjoy, if you are like me and about 4 weeks behind popular videos.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Wish List
In case the man in my life needs inspiration...
For the living room so I finish my coffee in time to get ready for work in the morning.
For the living room so I finish my coffee in time to get ready for work in the morning.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
No title.
Death has a way of slipping in opened windows, unattended doors, and unguarded hearts. He hangs his hat silently, his departure more noticed than arrival.
There is no training growing up to prepare you for dealing with death. Or, perhaps I have been lucky enough to have not had to face it. I had all four grandparents for 24 years of my life, and have only attended two funerals. I know I am blessed.
People deal with death in different ways. Some need the company of friends, while others prefer solitude. The struggle I face is with dealing with everyone else's feelings and finding the words for survivors.
Today my community lost one of the classiest, friendliest, and warmest women I've ever met. Though our paths only crossed four years ago, I feel privileged to have known her.
There is no training growing up to prepare you for dealing with death. Or, perhaps I have been lucky enough to have not had to face it. I had all four grandparents for 24 years of my life, and have only attended two funerals. I know I am blessed.
People deal with death in different ways. Some need the company of friends, while others prefer solitude. The struggle I face is with dealing with everyone else's feelings and finding the words for survivors.
Today my community lost one of the classiest, friendliest, and warmest women I've ever met. Though our paths only crossed four years ago, I feel privileged to have known her.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Dear Ina
Dear Ina,
You have been featured in my kitchen a dozen times, especially when it comes to chicken, from the roasted variety to herbed goat cheese. I love how you always have some fabulous friend/family member/celebrity over for one of your own delicacies. I appreciate your directions to always use "good" olive oil, "good" vanilla, and "good" salt and pepper, even though mine are likely from Fresh & Easy, Target, and Trader Joe's, respectively. I find them sufficient and quite tasty.
Anyway, you have a fan (well, duh, lots of them) in me for the entertaining you do weekly and I am making this public declaration to visit you in the Hamptons, visit the Barefood Contessa, and taste cheese and wine from one of those quaint fromage and vino establishments you frequent. Of course the table would be set with one of your amazing hydragea arrangements (which I'd like to discuss with you because I do not have a north-facing wall-what do you recommend? Keep buying!?!?!?!?)
Anyway, I think we could get along swell. I look forward to hearing from you. I'll even sell out my beau's famous steak*. I will be bold and say it may rival your restaurant-style steak. It's to die for, even my best girl said so.
Sincerely,
Erin Haselton, Orange County, CA
*he will not want the recipe on tv. Yep, it's that good. Don't you want an invite?
You have been featured in my kitchen a dozen times, especially when it comes to chicken, from the roasted variety to herbed goat cheese. I love how you always have some fabulous friend/family member/celebrity over for one of your own delicacies. I appreciate your directions to always use "good" olive oil, "good" vanilla, and "good" salt and pepper, even though mine are likely from Fresh & Easy, Target, and Trader Joe's, respectively. I find them sufficient and quite tasty.
Anyway, you have a fan (well, duh, lots of them) in me for the entertaining you do weekly and I am making this public declaration to visit you in the Hamptons, visit the Barefood Contessa, and taste cheese and wine from one of those quaint fromage and vino establishments you frequent. Of course the table would be set with one of your amazing hydragea arrangements (which I'd like to discuss with you because I do not have a north-facing wall-what do you recommend? Keep buying!?!?!?!?)
Anyway, I think we could get along swell. I look forward to hearing from you. I'll even sell out my beau's famous steak*. I will be bold and say it may rival your restaurant-style steak. It's to die for, even my best girl said so.
Sincerely,
Erin Haselton, Orange County, CA
*he will not want the recipe on tv. Yep, it's that good. Don't you want an invite?
What's for dinner?
I have had quite the struggle creating a dinner menu as of late. In the two years we've been married, I plan for the week and shop accordingly. It's been increasingly difficult to be creative in generating new ideas, thus turning into the same old same old. Who likes that? Input is appreciated but it's just as hard sometimes for Scott to devise the menu as I.
I've tried the plan-as-you-go method (which goes against all of my type-a ways) and inevitably I went to the store MORE planning only for that night or two days in a row. No bueno.
So, I feel like I am stumbling on an obvious idea, but I think cataloguing each meal that we really enjoy will make it easier to reference that 10 cookbooks or my excessive list on FoodNetwork.com.
This struggle also made me consider how much of our dinner menus are influenced by our parents meals growing up. I can say firmly that chicken divan has NOT graced my lap (no dining table yet.) But we have our fair share of tacos, enchiladas, steak, fish, and sloppy joe's (though a revamped recipe courtesy Pioneer Woman.) This is not special fare by any means, but it made me realize how generic our palates. I think the most exotic addition as of late was quinoa and couscous. The man in my life was not a fan of the latter, at least the way I made (though Kerri made a variety he enjoyed).
I'd be interested to know the sources people turn to for their grocery shopping lists. Mine are primarily food blogs and and recorded FoodNetwork shows, courtesy of Ina and Giada.
I've tried the plan-as-you-go method (which goes against all of my type-a ways) and inevitably I went to the store MORE planning only for that night or two days in a row. No bueno.
So, I feel like I am stumbling on an obvious idea, but I think cataloguing each meal that we really enjoy will make it easier to reference that 10 cookbooks or my excessive list on FoodNetwork.com.
This struggle also made me consider how much of our dinner menus are influenced by our parents meals growing up. I can say firmly that chicken divan has NOT graced my lap (no dining table yet.) But we have our fair share of tacos, enchiladas, steak, fish, and sloppy joe's (though a revamped recipe courtesy Pioneer Woman.) This is not special fare by any means, but it made me realize how generic our palates. I think the most exotic addition as of late was quinoa and couscous. The man in my life was not a fan of the latter, at least the way I made (though Kerri made a variety he enjoyed).
I'd be interested to know the sources people turn to for their grocery shopping lists. Mine are primarily food blogs and and recorded FoodNetwork shows, courtesy of Ina and Giada.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Ladies Night
Each Thanksgiving, my dear friend Lauren comes home from her fabulous travels around the world to hang out with Mandy and me. Laughing, teasing, catching up, and lots of girl talk always make for a night that could easily turn into a slumber party, and I am convinced we should do it one of these days.
I am very thankful to have had such good friends who don't see each other nearly enough, but always pick up right where we left off.
It's a joy to share in each other's lives, especially since they are continuing to grow and our ladies night is now including little girls too :)
I am very thankful to have had such good friends who don't see each other nearly enough, but always pick up right where we left off.
It's a joy to share in each other's lives, especially since they are continuing to grow and our ladies night is now including little girls too :)
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Fast Time at Home Sweet Haselton
I've been told it's been too long since my last posting. 17 days to be exact. Sometimes it's quite hard to summon the energy at the end of the day to be witty. It can be even harder to do so in the morning even after a few cups of coffee. Thus, bullet points with an occasional photo will bring the world up to speed on the goings on of the Haseltons.
I will try to be better moving forward. It will be a year-end resolution.
- We had a new door installed on our rental side. No photo. It's a door and it looks nice and we even opted for a new screen door too. Hot diggity. We installed a mailbox too.
- I painted our laundry room before we received our third set of a washer/dryer. This one is nice, though my only gripe is that it does not sing to me like our LG set did. But that set also leaked which lead to the demise of Sears in my opinion. So now we have a Whirlpool set and if you don't like yours I don't want to know. Ignorance is bliss occasionally. Someday I'll do a photo tour of our home. Probably after I rip my kitchen apart.
- We put new house numbers on our side of the duplex. I feel like an instant upgrade in the neighborhood because the glass garden plates are now gone and people can actually pick out our home out among the rest. I need to make a trip to Home Depot (though a devout Lowe's girl) for a set on the other side so the cool factor raises another notch.
- Thanksgiving was great. Got to hang out with this kid:
- Then we had Thanksgiving Giada-style with my parents and sister.
- I bought new couches at Living Spaces after spending 3 hours with their design consultant. As I keep saying, it was easier picking out a wedding dress.
- The Thanksgiving weekend concluded with a booze cruise with these girls. Good times and mimosas had by all.
I will try to be better moving forward. It will be a year-end resolution.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Fancy Supper
I love trying new recipes and now that we have a DVR again I can soak up all the Giada and Ina for inspiration.
Most recently, Ms. DeLaurentiis took a traditional dish and gave it a new twist:
Mini Lasagna with Corn and Marscapone....um, YUM!
I made these on Tuesday night for Scott and I with another innovative recipe of hers, Brussels Sprouts Leaf Salad. (Both of which will likely make an appearance at the annual Cousin Christmas Party this year. Thank goodness for the cousins, we gave it a test drive. Two thumbs WAY up.)
Giada's recipe calls for making the lasagna in small ramekins:
...So when removed, look like presents on the plate:
So, I have to say yes the recipe is easy as Giada claims, BUT the prep time is about 40 minutes unless you move like a Cordon Blue-trained chef, which I do not. After baking another 40 minutes, it's definitely a special meal, but I would probably only make it again on a weekend or for entertaining...or a Veterans Day for the newest mom and dad in my life.
I also added sauteed mushrooms for some added heartiness in a few layers, and made the meal in a to-go pan for the new parents and it worked just fine.
Enjoy!
Most recently, Ms. DeLaurentiis took a traditional dish and gave it a new twist:
Mini Lasagna with Corn and Marscapone....um, YUM!
I made these on Tuesday night for Scott and I with another innovative recipe of hers, Brussels Sprouts Leaf Salad. (Both of which will likely make an appearance at the annual Cousin Christmas Party this year. Thank goodness for the cousins, we gave it a test drive. Two thumbs WAY up.)
Giada's recipe calls for making the lasagna in small ramekins:
...So when removed, look like presents on the plate:
So, I have to say yes the recipe is easy as Giada claims, BUT the prep time is about 40 minutes unless you move like a Cordon Blue-trained chef, which I do not. After baking another 40 minutes, it's definitely a special meal, but I would probably only make it again on a weekend or for entertaining...or a Veterans Day for the newest mom and dad in my life.I also added sauteed mushrooms for some added heartiness in a few layers, and made the meal in a to-go pan for the new parents and it worked just fine.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Bedside Reading
I'm always curious to know what other people read at night. Usually I am a one book girl, devoted to a single story because generally I like whatever I'm reading that much. (Sidenote-books get three chapters before I'm out. Never could get into "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.")
My tune is changing, possibly because the novel of the bunch has been read before and I'm in more anticipation for the movie.
At work, I'm asked to employ graphic design skills that I do not have, so I figured it was time to seek out some help. Enter the assistance of our go-to designers at work, the Decaro's, who have graciously let me borrow this book-Thinking with Type. It's great for my (remedial) skill level and written effectively, but unfortunately, has been the recipient of least attention.
Glamour. My monthly mail indulgence. I usually skim it all in one sitting, reading the short articles and Q&A, and then go back one more time for the editorials. Then it's round-filed. No magazine hoarded here, and why I buy magazine subscriptions on Amazon for $2 a year.
My newest addition comes through my thoughtful mother-in-law, the gardening guru. 52 Weeks in the California Garden will be my bible take two piles of dirt from drab to fab. Let's hope it can instill some holy works to get me seeing more green and less brown.
The book to the left is Scott's: "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." I may start that once the aforementioned are complete.
What are you reading?
My tune is changing, possibly because the novel of the bunch has been read before and I'm in more anticipation for the movie.At work, I'm asked to employ graphic design skills that I do not have, so I figured it was time to seek out some help. Enter the assistance of our go-to designers at work, the Decaro's, who have graciously let me borrow this book-Thinking with Type. It's great for my (remedial) skill level and written effectively, but unfortunately, has been the recipient of least attention.
Glamour. My monthly mail indulgence. I usually skim it all in one sitting, reading the short articles and Q&A, and then go back one more time for the editorials. Then it's round-filed. No magazine hoarded here, and why I buy magazine subscriptions on Amazon for $2 a year.
My newest addition comes through my thoughtful mother-in-law, the gardening guru. 52 Weeks in the California Garden will be my bible take two piles of dirt from drab to fab. Let's hope it can instill some holy works to get me seeing more green and less brown.
The book to the left is Scott's: "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." I may start that once the aforementioned are complete.
What are you reading?
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Meet Oliver
Atticus will always have a place in our hearts, and this little guy is no replacement. His predecessor left great boots to fill.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Saturday Thoughts
1. I better be earning some massive karma in my next life when it comes to waiting in line at stores. Today would be a double points kind of day, but then I mentally b-slapped the idiot.
2. I saw a woman out walking/running and smoking this morning. Really?
3. This last woman must be the girlfriend of the man with the leaf blower. One should know it's quite windy today.
Perhaps there is a full moon.
2. I saw a woman out walking/running and smoking this morning. Really?
3. This last woman must be the girlfriend of the man with the leaf blower. One should know it's quite windy today.
Perhaps there is a full moon.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Red v. Blue
The good news is my hero Ed Royce won his race. He was probably the most certain vote I cast and one of the most genuine politicians who embodies the role of public servant--a voice of the people (or at least how I see it) and he's honest. Unlike others from the district to the upper right corner-a little to the left-and a right turn at Anaheim-Sanchez. Just saying, and I digress.
The bad news is that I really believe California is going to go further into the crapper with its decisions. Ugh, and we just bought a house. Fiji (or Colorado, Texas) are looking really good right now.
Ultimately, I truly believe politicians may start out at local levels with pure hearts and good intentions. Somewhere along the way the big checks come in, and those checks memos read "strings attached," and thus dirty politics are born.
There is no doubt that politics are polarized and I think, to a degree, cyclical. Four years ago Republicans were pissed at Bush and the Dems benefited. Now, Obama's promises are proving empty and we're seeing a Republican surge. I'm under no illusions that it will last. People will get fed up with something else and the pendulum will swing back to the Democrats. Believe you me I'll enjoy the Republican house while I can, mostly because I live in a blue state.
Politics and religion are two of the most taboo topics of conversation, but on Election Day, I'm throwing caution to the wind. I am a registered Libertarian but still err on the side of Republican, which I think is fairly obvious. This does not mean I support the likes of Sarah Palin-ohhh contraire. I didn't even like W. Obama seems like a nice guy with great charisma, but he's got a sorry thing coming with his health care "plan." Yes, that deserves quotes because I don't even think it's legitimate enough to be considered a course of action.
I realize this is a very opinionated and rather disjointed post, but that's what politics are and I'm pissed that Brown and Boxer won as I sit here watching CNN, Fox, The Daily Show and The Colbert Report. My soapbox is most often taken in private, and on a monumental day of mudslinging, I figure I can throw my two cents into the ring.
The bad news is that I really believe California is going to go further into the crapper with its decisions. Ugh, and we just bought a house. Fiji (or Colorado, Texas) are looking really good right now.
Ultimately, I truly believe politicians may start out at local levels with pure hearts and good intentions. Somewhere along the way the big checks come in, and those checks memos read "strings attached," and thus dirty politics are born.
There is no doubt that politics are polarized and I think, to a degree, cyclical. Four years ago Republicans were pissed at Bush and the Dems benefited. Now, Obama's promises are proving empty and we're seeing a Republican surge. I'm under no illusions that it will last. People will get fed up with something else and the pendulum will swing back to the Democrats. Believe you me I'll enjoy the Republican house while I can, mostly because I live in a blue state.
Politics and religion are two of the most taboo topics of conversation, but on Election Day, I'm throwing caution to the wind. I am a registered Libertarian but still err on the side of Republican, which I think is fairly obvious. This does not mean I support the likes of Sarah Palin-ohhh contraire. I didn't even like W. Obama seems like a nice guy with great charisma, but he's got a sorry thing coming with his health care "plan." Yes, that deserves quotes because I don't even think it's legitimate enough to be considered a course of action.
I realize this is a very opinionated and rather disjointed post, but that's what politics are and I'm pissed that Brown and Boxer won as I sit here watching CNN, Fox, The Daily Show and The Colbert Report. My soapbox is most often taken in private, and on a monumental day of mudslinging, I figure I can throw my two cents into the ring.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Happy Halloween!
Preparing for Boos & Ghouls
Our sweet little neighbors Vivien and Nathaniel are receiving extra special treats tonight:
Interior decorations, with a few more assorted pumpkins and gourds around the living room.
The house!
Scott and I will be sitting on that porch tonight, ready to greet trick-or-treaters. I have been looking forward to doing this since the house buying idea took off in January. With about 2.5 bags of candy left, I am armed and ready to receive kiddos! I will be a recycled gypsy now pirate wench and Scott will be the pirate's modern day husband. Cheers!
Interior decorations, with a few more assorted pumpkins and gourds around the living room.
The house!
Scott and I will be sitting on that porch tonight, ready to greet trick-or-treaters. I have been looking forward to doing this since the house buying idea took off in January. With about 2.5 bags of candy left, I am armed and ready to receive kiddos! I will be a recycled gypsy now pirate wench and Scott will be the pirate's modern day husband. Cheers!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Annual Haselton Pumpkin Carving
Each year, the Haseltons gather 'round the table (inside this year, fancy!) to carve pumpkins.
I decided to up the anty from my usual happy, yet toothless jack-o-lantern, to this guy:
Others went with a more realistic approach:
Mason, Pumpkin Patch Kid.
My other pumpkin: Cat in Witch's Boot, Oct. 2010.
Scott's Cyclops. Reminds me of Sloth from "The Goonies."
Group shot (l-r): Polynesian Pumpkin (Grandma Haselton), Cyclops (Scott), Ghost (Sandy, MIL), Jack Skellington (Traci, SIL), Tim Curry (Erin), Puking Pumpkin (Robert, Traci's boyfriend), Swordfish Squash (Frank, FIL), Kitty in Witch's Boot (Erin).
Pumpkin Patch kid is noticeably absent.
No tripod means two group shots so everyone gets to be included.
Happy Halloweenie!
I decided to up the anty from my usual happy, yet toothless jack-o-lantern, to this guy:
Others went with a more realistic approach:
Mason, Pumpkin Patch Kid.
My other pumpkin: Cat in Witch's Boot, Oct. 2010.
Scott's Cyclops. Reminds me of Sloth from "The Goonies."
Group shot (l-r): Polynesian Pumpkin (Grandma Haselton), Cyclops (Scott), Ghost (Sandy, MIL), Jack Skellington (Traci, SIL), Tim Curry (Erin), Puking Pumpkin (Robert, Traci's boyfriend), Swordfish Squash (Frank, FIL), Kitty in Witch's Boot (Erin).Pumpkin Patch kid is noticeably absent.
No tripod means two group shots so everyone gets to be included.
Happy Halloweenie!Thursday, October 21, 2010
New Tenants
He will be known as Charlie unless I see a sack. At that point, she's finding a new home. Kerri is likely never come into our back yard again.
The spider is about the size of a quarter. It's HUGE.
Late afternoon snack.
I have a stick sitting on the trash can that I use just to be sure there are no lingering anchors that I could even possibly walk through. It's a trip.
The spider is about the size of a quarter. It's HUGE.
Late afternoon snack.
I have a stick sitting on the trash can that I use just to be sure there are no lingering anchors that I could even possibly walk through. It's a trip.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Ghoulish Decor
We have a house now, and that means I can finally decorate for holidays! One might think you can decorate the interior of an apartment as much as you can a house, which is true, but we did not purchase much furniture while living in an apartment, thus not many places to set things, so I have unleashed this year with every Michael's, JoAnn's, and Target coupon I can find.
I'll have everyone know it totally got the approval of Nathaniel and Vivien next door. They are the harshest critics I know, being 5 and 3 respectively and experts on the holiday. Although I am totally jealous of their lighted bats on their epic porch.
I plan to carry the spider webs over the arch to incorporate the dangling Mr. Bones better.
Scabbers, pictured on top of our address, was a gift from my mother in law and my nod to Potter.
My civic trying to steel the shot.
And a gratuitous shot of my nephew in preparation of the holiday.
We are obviously going to do pumpkins to light the path and set on the porch closer to the holiday too. If I had an outdoor outlet I'd hang lights as well, but in due time...like Christime, hello we cannot not have Christmas lights!
I'll have everyone know it totally got the approval of Nathaniel and Vivien next door. They are the harshest critics I know, being 5 and 3 respectively and experts on the holiday. Although I am totally jealous of their lighted bats on their epic porch.
I plan to carry the spider webs over the arch to incorporate the dangling Mr. Bones better. 
Scabbers, pictured on top of our address, was a gift from my mother in law and my nod to Potter.
My civic trying to steel the shot.
And a gratuitous shot of my nephew in preparation of the holiday.We are obviously going to do pumpkins to light the path and set on the porch closer to the holiday too. If I had an outdoor outlet I'd hang lights as well, but in due time...like Christime, hello we cannot not have Christmas lights!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
44 days...
And the Nerd Supreme returns:
There are now TWO trailers for the film. Both give me goose bumps and bring tears to my eyes. And they are all of 2.5 minutes long. I'd try to attempt to embed the videos but they are better viewed full screen, from the official site here. Don't let people make fun of you if you want to watch more than once.
Since we are now in a house I have decorated for Halloween and want to dress up to hand out candy to the darling trick-or-treaters on the porch. I was considering Professor Trelawny, because at the end of the day, I'm not into the dark arts. But I just love how Helena Bonham Carter interprets Bellatrix so perhaps for one night only I'll dabble on the Borgin & Burke's side of things. I'm still trying to convince Senor Haselton to be a couple character. He's quite repelled by all of my ideas: Sirius Black and Bellatrix LeStrange, Wednesday and Puglsey Adams, Dog the Bounty Hunter and Beth, Sookie Stackhouse and Bill Compton...wel'll see what happens.
In the meantime, I'm debating on hosting a A Very Harry Potter Party in celebration of the movie.
There are now TWO trailers for the film. Both give me goose bumps and bring tears to my eyes. And they are all of 2.5 minutes long. I'd try to attempt to embed the videos but they are better viewed full screen, from the official site here. Don't let people make fun of you if you want to watch more than once.
Since we are now in a house I have decorated for Halloween and want to dress up to hand out candy to the darling trick-or-treaters on the porch. I was considering Professor Trelawny, because at the end of the day, I'm not into the dark arts. But I just love how Helena Bonham Carter interprets Bellatrix so perhaps for one night only I'll dabble on the Borgin & Burke's side of things. I'm still trying to convince Senor Haselton to be a couple character. He's quite repelled by all of my ideas: Sirius Black and Bellatrix LeStrange, Wednesday and Puglsey Adams, Dog the Bounty Hunter and Beth, Sookie Stackhouse and Bill Compton...wel'll see what happens.
In the meantime, I'm debating on hosting a A Very Harry Potter Party in celebration of the movie.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Bon Anniversaire
Happy birthday Shortie...
I'll always be older and have better bangs (most of the time)...
And possibly have better style because really, red polyester is never good on anyone...
But I'll always love you, even if you have that heinous yellow lame jacket that qualifies you for an intervention.
Happy birthday SPECIAL girl!
I'll always be older and have better bangs (most of the time)...And possibly have better style because really, red polyester is never good on anyone...But I'll always love you, even if you have that heinous yellow lame jacket that qualifies you for an intervention.Happy birthday SPECIAL girl!
Friday, October 1, 2010
Freaky Friday
1. We miss our cat dearly. Atticus brought the Cajun to our salt and pepper spice rack. His personality is already missed around our house.
2. This has been the weirdest week for weather in Orange County. Monday was the hottest day of the year at a record-breaking 112 degrees. There are people who choose to live in the desert and welcome that climate, I however, do not. It felt like the child of Death Valley and Las Vegas. Now, here we are on Friday, where the same city that hit 112 degrees was the center of a crazy thunder and lightening storm. My office lost power for about an hour and half. Lightning touched down in several places, including a palm tree a few blocks away.
Hopefully good things are in store this weekend. Like my washing machine and dryer saga can come to an end. That will be a post all on its own.
2. This has been the weirdest week for weather in Orange County. Monday was the hottest day of the year at a record-breaking 112 degrees. There are people who choose to live in the desert and welcome that climate, I however, do not. It felt like the child of Death Valley and Las Vegas. Now, here we are on Friday, where the same city that hit 112 degrees was the center of a crazy thunder and lightening storm. My office lost power for about an hour and half. Lightning touched down in several places, including a palm tree a few blocks away.
3. I titled this post "Freaky Friday" because it's the first of October, been a weird week, and even this girl has been in the news. Girl, get it together.
Hopefully good things are in store this weekend. Like my washing machine and dryer saga can come to an end. That will be a post all on its own.
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