Desperately Seeking Seersucker

Babies + Exercise + Murder = Happiness :)

2012-02-14T14:53:00.000-05:00

Hi there! Me again :) Just popping in to say Happy Valentine's Day, and to give you a little update.

BABY

For those of you who don't know, mrs.mfc gave birth to a beautiful baby boy on Tuesday, February 7. Both mrs.mfc and baby Reid are home and settled in. I had the chance to visit with both of them yesterday, and let me just tell you....that sweet baby captured my heart <3

(please notice how Reid has placed his head on his hand while having a little rest :)

I know mrs.mfc will have lots to share about the new addition to she and B's life, but I wanted to let you all know that they are healthy, happy and home safe and sound!

PUPPY
Louis and I have become a bit co-dependent. It's terribly unhealthy, and I realize that. Feel free to make fun. It's okay. Really.

He cannot be further than 1 foot from me at any given moment. I woke up to this little face this morning.....

I think I need to take him to doggy daycare more often so that he remembers what it's like to not have me there all of the time. We have started to communicate through looks & sounds. Seriously. It's a bit creepy.

(TEN attempting to dance with Louis. hmmm...perhaps I'm not the only one who's off their rocker lately?)

WORK
I continue to apply to for jobs that I am completely unqualified for, but that intrigue me. Jobs that I would feel honored to have. A career that I would throw myself into, 100%. I know that it is possible to have such a thing, because I once did. And then things changed.

Currently I'm doing a bit of consulting/event planning/helping for a local organization, and I'm loving it! I researched a potential opportunity for said organization just last week, and it felt great to be planning something "fun" again :) I'm going to be working very PT for this organization in another role in the near future as well. I see no reason why I shouldn't gain a little bit of experience, and a little bit of a paycheck, while I'm deciding what I want to be when I grow up!

I'm also working to help plan a fundraising dinner for our local Republican Committee. And I'm giving friends rides to and fro when needed. And I'm re-organizing my house.

(Louis helping me "work" from home)

Basically, I'm giving myself another month to find something that falls into the category of "dream job". If I don't find it, I'll go back to applying for those jobs that I'm quite sure I'll get. Because they fall into the category of exactly what I've been doing. For ages.

HAPPINESS
Friends, I cannot tell you how blissfully happy I am. I am so very thankful that I had the opportunity to walk away from such unhappiness. For the last year or so I've been terribly scattered. I've not really been "present" when spending time with friends. Or family. I've just been "getting by". Going from one event to the next. One day to the next.

(me thoroughly enjoying PJ Brunch Club on Super Bowl Sunday. don't you just ADORE my westie/scottie PJs? one of my loves gave them to me for Christmas!)

I was so terribly tired all of the time. I thought that perhaps I was just getting older, and more tired? WRONG. I was very unhappy, and stressed and felt trapped. It's just that.....well....I didn't realize it. How is that possible?

I feel like myself again :) I listen when people talk. My mind doesn't wander. I am living in the moment. Enjoying the present. Not worrying about the future one bit. This is the way life should be. Don't you agree? Now, if only I could win the lottery.....

EXERCISE
Every morning. Well, maybe not EVERY morning. I think I've skipped one or two. BUT...I've also exercised twice in one day. Mmmm-huh. True fact. I'm getting F-I-T.

Let's take yesterday for example. Up at 8:00 (after snuggling with Louis in the bed for approximately 20 minutes ;), onto the treadmill for 50 minutes. Then, into the shower. Dressed and out the door to visit mrs.mfc & Baby Reid. Visited for 1.5 hours, then off to another friends to drop something off. Which turned into an hour visit. And then dry cleaning, gas fill up, etc. Oh my! It's almost 4:30. I have a 4:30 date with Barbie and her Dance Central Kinect. We dance for an hour, and then it's time for a cocktail.

Do you see where I'm coming from? I don't know about you, but I can't really imagine a life any better than this one I'm living. Well, the lottery would make it a bit better I suppose :) A trip to Greece for Valentine's Day? Or Prague? Or.... Well, yes. The lottery would make it a lot better. But for today, I am so very thankful for what I have. And for what the future has to offer. It's exciting isn't it? The winds of change......

Tonight TEN is cooking supper for Valentine's Day. I'm very excited. He has informed me that I may want to bring my camera. Supper is going to be THAT spectacular. Wow :)

Friday night my women's wine group, and our dates, are going to a local winery for a Murder Mystery Dinner. I'm supposed to be called Jasmine, and should wear all black. I supposedly play the rock violin in a band (~hysterical giggles coming from me at this point~). TEN is also in said band, and wears all black too. However, his day job is to work in a musical book store of sorts.

I cannot think of any two characters LESS like TEN and I, but alas....we shall dress in all black (I am also going to wear a black wig) and have a lovely time no doubt! BFF's husband's character is a snake charmer, and another friend's husband is a jockey. Definitely not a night to forget the camera.

TEN's birthday is Monday. We are going to celebrate his birthday Saturday night at a local pub. Dinner & drinks with friends. I've purchased him a lovely birthday gift, with the help of a dear friend (thank you dear friend...you know who you are :).

So, there you have it. That's what has been going on here at Seersucker Central. I dare say I've been a crap friend to most of you. Terrible about being in touch, and even a bit shady when it comes to reading your blogs. I've become a bit self centered in my temporary retirement, perhaps? Regardless, please know that I adore each and every one of you. Truly. And one day I'll be back to my old self. Gossiping up a storm, and doing so regularly.

Don't give up on me....

Cazones & Cabernet

2012-02-14T13:17:00.000-05:00

**I typed this post almost 2 weeks ago. I then inadvertantly deleted all of the photos. Which caused me to lose my patience :( So, I'm just now posting it!**

Last night Daisy came over and we decided to make homemade calzones. Calzones may be my absolute favorite indulgence EVER. I'm not a big "pizza sauce" person, so a calzone hits the spot! I found a Pampered Chef recipe for homemade calzones, but it didn't include ricotta cheese. It also used swiss chese. I am a firm believer that ricotta cheese is a MUST in a calzone. Also, swiss? I'll take mozzarella please. So, I printed off a few more recipes, and we merged them all together to make our own variation!

Honestly, this may have been one of the best calzones I've ever eaten. We opted for ricotta, mozzarella & peperoni, but you can put anything you like in it :)

Pepperoni & Cheese Calzone

1 pkg refridgerated pizza crust (regular crust)

13.5 oz ricotta cheese

1.5 cups mozarella cheese

Italian spices, crushed red pepper flakes, any other spices you like (optional)

parmesan cheese

sliced pepperoni

olive oil

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Combine ricotta and mozzarella cheese in a mixing bowl. Add spieces if you choose.

Unroll pizza crust onto baking stone or pizza pan. Gently stretch and press dough to cover bottom. Spoon cheese/spice mixture onto one half of the pizza crust.

Fold the dough in half, pinch the seems & press down with a fork on the edges.

Cut 3 slits into the top of the calzone.

Brush with olive oil.

Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until crust is a deep golden brown. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top and allow to melt.

TEN and I bought one roll of the pizza crust over the weekend, and split it into two. We each made our own smaller calzones, and again...perfection!

Peeling Back the Layers

2012-01-26T14:56:00.001-05:00

I've started so many posts, but just can't figure out what to say. I feel like I'm in such a wonderful place right now, with so much opportunity ahead of me. It's just that everything feels....well.....ahead of me.

It's as if there is nothing happening today that is interesting enough to talk about. Wow. That sounds pitiful. But seriously, let me explain. Yesterday I got up bright and early and headed to a local Food Lion. This particular Food Lion is closing, and everything in store (other than alcohol and tobacco) was 50% off starting yesterday. I grabbed my coupon bag, and headed out the door.

I was at Food Lion for probably 3 hours. I spent $200. I saved about $300, thanks to my coupons. I came home and my housekeeper was here. Yes, you heard right. I don't have a job, but I still have a housekeeper. Shush. I don't want to hear it. So my housekeeper and I chatted for about an hour, while I put my groceries away. It was past lunch time, and so I had a late lunch. And then little Louis needed some snuggles. And before you knew it...TEN was leaving work and wanted to know if I wanted to watch a movie.

You see where I'm coming from, right. What in the heck am I going to write about that?

I've been job searching online today. Looking for something that I think would inspire me. Something that would make me want to better myself. Something that would challenge both my mind and my soul. I started pacing through my house. Down the main staircase. Down to the basement. Back upstairs. Then I decided to take photographs of the things that made me smile.

I still don't have any idea what I want to be when I grow up, but here's what I found worth smiling about today....

(my deep freezer!! definitely the best $75 i've ever spent in my life)

(seeing this sucker packed to the brim, and knowing that I won't go hungry for a long, long, long time...)

(oh yes. those are breakfast sausage patties that you see. mmmmm....i'm all about some breakfast these days!)

(part of the personal care section of my stockpile)

(sauces and soups and such...)

(TEN remarked that we needed to find a recipe that would use soy sauce and worcestershire sauce. because i have even more in another stash :-o)

(paper products)

(laundry supplies under the counter...)

(...and on top of the counter)

(this is my view every morning at 8:30am. please notice the 3lb hand weights. my arm muscles are getting out of control. i'll bee up to 4lb hand weights in no time. hehe..)

(some of my formal gowns. sometimes, while on my treadmill, i stare at them. and i remember the balls i wore them to. and what wonderful things happened. always good for a smile)

(random montage of old halloween costumes. another good walk down memory lane)

(rando Russian musical instrument that my dad found and bought. it has all of this Russian writing inside, and is probably worth a mint. wonder if pops would mind if I sold it? hmmm....i'll meditate on that.)

(what i refer to as my "wine cellar". yes. i really do call it that.)

(portrait my parents had painted of me once upon a time. aren't i cute? i'm pretty sure that had Toddlers & Tiaras existed back then i would have walked away with Ultimate Grand Supreme. WORK IT TOOTIE!!!)

(this is a photo of my dad. he was younger than me here. sometimes this picture makes me smile. sometimes it makes me cry. i just wish i could talk to him. in person.)

(i don't even remember this time in my life. this is the home in Florida where i grew up. i didn't realize that we hadn't always had the huge screened in porch, the deck and the pool. amazing, since i look like i should be old enough to remember that. dad's rockin the seersucker pants and some mad hair. this little pup is Piper. he was my first westie love.)

(dad & i in the hammock. i have this hammock now. it hangs in my back yard in the summer. laying in that hammock is one of the things that makes me happiest in the world.)

(my mother sent me this picture in this year's birthday card. i can't help but laugh every time i see it. look how demanding i am! for a minute i thought i was giving someone the finger, but i'm sure that can't be so. i'm probably saying "give me that knife so i can cut myself a piece of this damn cake!!")

(the downstairs bathroom where i get ready each morning. i'm not really sure why i get ready downstairs? it is definitely cooler in the summer, and i think i feel like i don't use enough of my house? it has 4BRs and 2 full BRs and it's just me here. regardless, it's my "get ready room")

(another shot from the downstairs bathroom)

(this is my kitchen, and my most favorite room. i wish it were bigger, and that i had an island, and newer cabinets...but whatevs. it's mine. and it's where everyone congregates. and where all of my mad cooking skills are put to use.)

(my parents in Europe. i think this was their honeymoon. i love my mother's suit!)

(my upstairs bathroom. my mother's bathroom is all white, and i love it. so...i copied her! white shower curtain. white tile floors. and blue accents.)

(this little man is the first thing i see every morning when i walk out of my bedroom)

(speaking of my bedroom, this is the "accessory" get ready space)

(here is the "which purse shall I carry?" space)

(belt or no belt today??)

(my home "office". this doesn't really make me smile, it actually makes me laugh. hysterically. for some reason?)

(one of my spare bedrooms. well, one corner of it anyway...)

(and here's me! the new me. the me that doesn't really look a whole lot skinnier, but whose legs feel so much stronger! and whose arms are starting to have some definition. someone who isn't sure what the hell she is going to do with her future, but she's pretty darn sure she's looking better and better in her leggins.....)

So there you have it. I've got Mumford & Sons Little Lion Man on repeat, and I won't get tired of it for a while. It's a song that I've always liked, but when I listened to it yesterday I realized that it had a different meaning for me these days. It's empowering somehow? I was singing it at the top of my lungs a few hours ago when the mail lady came. I'm pretty sure I scared her half to death......

T

Ladies Who Lunch

2012-01-23T16:10:00.001-05:00

Is there anyone out there?

Just kidding. I know you are all there :) I've been reading your blogs from my blackberry, and keeping up with your lives, but just not commenting. BUT NOW I've got a wireless internet router for my tablet (yes, yes...I was living in the dark ages), and so I can comment!! And blog!! Woohooo.

I mean, heaven knows I couldn't be bothered to go into my home office and sit at my PC. Can we say LAZY BONES.

I've been interviewing for jobs, but still haven't found anything that "inspires" me. Am I being too picky? I guess at this point I feel like I can still afford to be picky. Six months from now, if I still haven't found my dream job, I'll probably jump at the first opportunity I get. Let's hope that isn't where I find myself.

The craziest part is that I stay completely busy all day long. I thought I would search for jobs, apply online, have an interview or two....but mostly I thought I would be bored out of my mind! Reading books, eating bon-bons and talking on the phone. You know the drill. But I find myself to be just as busy, if not more so, than before!

I've been playing the lottery. I'm pretty sure I am supposed to win and just be independently wealthy :) I've become on of those "Ladies Who Lunch", and surprisingly I find it suits me. Why did I ever think I needed to be challenged on a daily basis? To push myself to every possible limit to prove how competent I was? Psht. No thanks. I'll just have a Waldorf Salad and a glass of Pinot Grigio, thank you very much.

And there you have it. True Confessions 101. I want to be a Lady Who Lunches, and who has her hair done and nails done and spends her days on the tennis court and at the spa. Oh, and who gets on the treadmill every morning to assure that all of those lunches don't go right to her hips. I've been doing that you know. Treadmill every morning. Bright and early. Yay for me.

So I'm making an effort to start blogging again. I need to make a list so that I can remember just what I've been up to lately. Surely something dramatic or exciting has happened?

We did go to the Black & White Ball again this year....

Hardwood Floor HELP!

2012-01-05T09:06:00.002-05:00

And here I thought I was going to be blogging away once I finished my last day at my job (December 30). I thought I would have all of this free time to catch up with everyone else's blogs, and to get back into the swing of things. WRONG.

That isn't to say that won't happen after this week (fingers crossed), but boy have I been busy!

One of the things that was most important for me to accomplish this week was to take down my Christmas decorations. I did that yesterday, and last night TEN helped me lug my Christmas tree to the curb. AND THEN....

You can only imagine the reaction I had when I flung back the living room carpet to sweep and saw this....

Apparently my tree stand LEAKED onto my hardwood floors :( I checked the stand, and there were water droplets on the bottom. Directly into the garbage that tree stand went, but alas...what to do with the water damage?

I took a picture and told TEN that I would post it on the blog, and ask for help. I just know one of you has some advice. Can this be fixed? I've left the rug pulled back to let the wood "dry out", but other than that I'm at a loss.

HELP!

T

Christmas in New York

2011-12-28T11:49:00.000-05:00

I finally had a chance to get my pictures off of my camera, and to clean them up a bit. There are more pictures (and some with me actually IN them), but they are on my mother's camera. I'll share those once I have them :) I was quite pleased with some of my pictures, and they definitely tell the story of our trip...for the most part....

The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park:

I walked around with my head in the clouds, literally, for most of our trip. I love some of these pictures!

I have to admit, I was a bit disappointed with some of the "Christmas" windows. They lacked, well, Christmas. I know that everyone doesn't celebrate Christmas, and that's just fine with me. But the windows have ALWAYS been decorate for Christmas. Don't get me started on the Lady Gaga nonsense at Barney's. Blech.

Bloomingdale's had a fantastic theme for their windows, but of course I didn't take any pictures. Why, you ask? Well, because Bloomingdale's was far too busy taking OUR pictures. To put on their Facebook. Seriously. Check it out HERE...

Macy's was festive, of course. They never let us down :)

Van Cleef & Arpels had window displays, but their theme was "Famous Balls". No Christmas to be found, but I did find this window featuring Truman Capote's infamous Black & White Ball. We have a Black & White Ball of our in Smalltown, VA, modeled after this ball, so I had to take a photo...even though it wasn't a Christmas window :(

All hail C. Wonder! Their window was quite festive :)

We had to visit Rockefeller Center to be sure it really was Christmas. And of course, it was :)

And then THE PALACE. It was certainly Christmas there!

Inside of Macy's was a most exciting display! I had heard rumor of it, and set off to see it with my own two eyes.

There were all types of pups featured, but of course I had to photograph the westies. For Louis. He was quite pleased :)

Other than these westie prints, here are a few of my other favorite things....

(found at C. Wonder)

(found at a shop in Soho, I believe?)

Wow. I'm beginning to realize that I didn't take half as many pictures as I thought I did. Oh well!

This little pub was down the street from our hotel, and we stopped in for a pre-dinner cocktail on Saturday evening....

On Monday, we saw a display of New York's finest. Well, their cars anyway! Does anyone else think it's comical that they are parked in front of "Chase"?? Yes, I know that is as in "J.P. Morgan", but still. Police Chase. hehehe....

I completely forgot to take photos of our fabulous dinners at Chin Chin & Balthazar. And I showed you this photo yesterday of our lunch at Cafe 745 in Bergdorf Goodman:

Both of our dinners, and lunch, were absolutely spectacular!! I had the Steak Frites at Balthazar, and let me just tell you that I have not stopped dreaming of it since. Absolutely DIVINE :)

At Chin Chin I had the Crisped Indochine Beef. It was quite good, by I enjoyed my mother's spicy chicken much more. Well, that and the people's Crisped Orange Beef beside us. Yes. They shared. Gotta love New York!!

We had the most lovely time, and were thoroughly exhausted as we packed our bags and hailed a cab to take us back to the train.....

One last Christmas tree to bid us farewell, at Penn Station.

Snapshot

2011-12-27T09:27:00.001-05:00

I hope you all had the most wonderful holiday! I sure did :) There is nothing quite like New York City at Christmas. If you've not experienced it, you should.

We pulled into Smalltown, VA last night. I dumped all of my bags on the floor, and curled up on the couch with LW. I missed him terribly while I was away. He stayed with TEN's family, and I know he had a wonderful time...but he missed me very much. He told me so.

I have so many pictures to share, and can't wait to put together a blog about my Christmas visit to the city. But, until then....

Oops...It's Westie Wednesday Isn't It?

2011-12-21T15:17:00.000-05:00

Did I mention that I was going to be spending Christmas in NYC this year? I think I did....

So many of you have had the most fabulous trips to NYC as of late, and reading your tales while looking at your pictures has made me aboslutely giddy! We didn't want to tie ourselves down with too much of a "schedule", but the following are on our list :)

We are riding up and back on the train....

And my hope is that by the time we return, I will have mastered this:

Have a wonderful holiday, and whatever you and yours are celebrating this year...Louis and I would like to extend our most warm blessings to you!

(borrowed from)

Merry Christmas & Westie Licks,

T & Louis

Santa Came Early to Seersucker Central!

2011-12-20T15:13:00.001-05:00

Last night TEN and I decided to exchange our Christmas gifts. We are both heading out of town on Thursday, and have a birthday celebration both tonight and tomorrow night. We didn't want to just "fit in" OUR Christmas, so we decided that last night was the night.

Louis was very excited, as he noticed the boxes under the tree moving to and fro. He didn't have a clue what was about to happen...but regardless...he wanted in on it!

(please notice the little pink mark on Louis' nose. he scraped his nose while chasing a mouse in the wood pile. silly pups!!)

I just realized that I haven't posted a picture of my tree, but it's especially beautiful this year :) I have a most special ornament hanging right up front!

So wine was opened, and the unwrapping began! Well, the stockings came first, of course...

And then the cards....

(TEN's card to me..from a local shop that makes the most adorable screen print cards)

(my card to TEN. not nearly as creative, but just as cute, don't you think?)

(Louis' card to TEN. Louis always gets TEN a card :)

Finally, the packages are opened!

(TEN is setting up a bar in his home, and wanted some liquor decanters)

(a navy sweater was on the top of his list for Santa!)

(the ol' bash-n-chop for cooking. monogrammed, of course. hehehe...)

Louis was getting a wee bit frustrated, so we let him open a gift of his very own!

TEN takes most pictures "up and down", if you will. Blogger is not my friend when it comes to "up and down" pictures, so we don't have many of me opening gifts. Which, honestly, is okay. I tend to get really excited and make ridiculous faces. TEN smiles handsomely, and I jump around. After I jumped around when I got my BIG gift, I calmed down for a moment so that he could take a picture of me "side ways" for the blog :)

(TEN bought me a tablet!!! i LOVE it. well, actually i'm incredibly intimidated by it. i don't have "touch" anything, so i inadvertently changed the language to chinese at one point. but i'm learning!!!)

(TEN's "BIG" gift was the fish hook belt from Vineyard Vines. he has wanted it for MONTHS, and that's about as long as it took for me to find a size 36. the last one left on the planet, apparently. thanks Molls!)

I also got some serving dishes that I love, a gel eye mask that I asked for AND the most amazing racks for my clothes. NICE racks. I've been contemplating turning the upstairs spare bedroom into a dressing room. But I don't think this is my "forever" house, so I don't want to do built-ins or anything. I wanted nice, sturdy, attractive clothing racks to line part of the room. It's a large room, so shoes would have a place too. And perhaps a chair and dressing table too. Anyway, I've been talking about it forever, and TEN has gotten me started. Woohooo!!!

So that was Christmas at Seersucker Central. TEN and I both must have been VERY good this year :)

Ho, ho, ho,

"Weekends Don't Count Unless You Spend Them Doing Something Completely Pointless. ~Bill Watterson

2011-12-19T15:00:00.000-05:00

Friday night TEN and I had 2 Christmas parties to attend. The first was a work party for TEN, and the second was an annual get together a dear friend has been having for years.

I'm not going to lie, I was a little bit nervous about meeting all of TEN's work folks. All of them at once? Bosses and colleagues and other department staff. Yikes! I have never taken TEN to my office's Christmas party for that simple reason. It's A LOT to deal with. And can be terribly stressful for the +1.

TEN assured me over and over that I had nothing to worry about. That everyone would like me. That I would like everyone. That it would be fun. Regardless, I must have changed outfits about 10 times. He told me at one point that it was casual Friday in the office, and everyone would probably just be wearing jeans. JEANS?!??!? I was in a dress. The party included dinner at his boss's house! JEANS?!?!?

You can see how this went down. Back and forth. Jeans with heels & jewels? Dress w/ballet flats and no jewels? Which would be better?

Let me just quit boring you with this and come to the point. WE HAD THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME! Seriously :)

I feel like it really didn't matter what I was wearing. The people TEN works with are amazing! They are quirky and kind, funny & honest. They truly enjoy each other, and were happy to be at their boss' house celebrating the Christmas holiday. I can't say I've ever really experienced anything like that. It was refreshing. It was exciting. THAT is what I want :)

I pretty much knew all was well when I saw that TEN's boss had these cocktails napkins out on the bar:

I said "Look at this TEN!" (and while pointing to the word Monolos I said...) "I want THESE for Christmas!" TEN said "The napkins? Okay" and stuffed a few into his jacket pocket. I thought I was going to faint. It was most likely the funniest thing that happened all weekend :)

~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~

Saturday was errand day for me. I'll spare you the horrid experience that was Best Buy. I won't tell you about the stereo I ordered online, that came in a million pieces, that the online people told me I could exchange at the store, that the Customer Service Manager in the store told me to I would have to file a claim with UPS for.

I'll just tell you that I'm shipping the whole damn thing back to Best Buy, cancelling my credit card with them and purchasing it from Sears or some other such place.

Saturday night we had fondue night. It was relaxing and lovely, and just what I needed after quite a dramatic week. I was so overwhelmed by life in general on Saturday, that I forgot to take pictures. Boo hiss! Just imagine fondue. And wine. And laughter. Yep. That's what it looked like.

~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~

Sunday I didn't get out of my pajamas. I cooked pancakes & turkey bacon & sausage for breakfast, with orange juice. I wrapped all of my Christmas packages. We made a fire. We watched a movie. Have you seen Win Win? It's really good :) I saw it for the second time yesterday, and honestly...I'd watch it again. What a good reminder of what really matters in life. And what really doesn't.

I'm leaving for **New York City** on Thursday for Christmas. Between now and then I've got 2 birthday celebrations, a mani/pedi & Christmas with TEN. It's going to be a FANTASTIC week!

T

“All Great Changes are Preceded by Chaos.” -Deepak Chopra

2011-12-19T09:52:00.000-05:00

I hinted last week that some changes were coming for this girl, and then I said I would tell you all about it on Friday. I didn't get a chance to, because I had some other really exciting things happening...and I got sidetracked. I'm sorry!

In a nutshell, I'm leaving my job on December 30! New Year. New Career. I'm really excited :) It's a little scary, sure, but...I've never made a career change that hasn't been for the best (knock on wood), looking back. AND....that tells me this is a really good thing.

What is it that you will be doing now, you ask? And part of the excitement is that right now is that I would look a little something like this:

Because I haven't decided. There are some great opportunities, and I'm just not sure exactly WHAT I want to do moving forward. I do know one thing though friends. This time around, I will NOT allow this guy:

to be the decision maker.

So here's to a fantastic 2012! To seeing more of the world, and letting go of all of the stress I have been carrying. To living, loving and laughing so much more than I did in 2011. And to the knowledge that some things, and people, will be left behind....forever. Thank you baby Jesus.

xoxo,

T

Oops...It WAS Westie Wednesday!

2011-12-15T15:26:00.005-05:00

Hi there! I forgot poor Louis yesterday, but let me assure you that you will forgive me. Once I clue you in. But I'm not able to do that until tomorrow. I know, I know...that's not nice of me. Sorry.

Anyway, change it is a comin' over here at Seersucker Central. And that's all I'll say about that right now.

In other news....

Louis had a hair appointment this week. He looks smashing, but for some reason he refuses to pose for the camera. This is the best I could get, and he looks like some poor abused little pups. I promise I've done nothing but love him and feed him treats!

We also made a special ornament for Louis this year. Daisy is the creative one, as always, and did this for her pups. She is Louis's Auntie Daisy, and she made enough for him to have one too!

I know I will treasure this ornament always, and wanted to share Daisy's recipe & instructions should any of you have the desire to make an ornament as well.

‎1 Cup Flour

1 cup Water

1/2 cup Salt

knead together, add spices or none (we used cinnamon)

roll out to desired thickness

shape

MAKE SURE TO PUT A HOLE IN IT IF AN ORNAMENT

bake at 250 for an hour or so until it is hard.

Super simple!!

We used a wine bottle stopper, with a pointed end, for writing. We also used one of those little things that you stick into the end of a cob of corn. Either will do :) You will need a heart cookie cutter, or any other shape. The bigger the better.

So that WAS Westie Wednesday. I've been a day behind all week, and I've also had so much going on that I haven't had a minute to sit down to blog.

Westie Licks,

T & Louis

This Year's Angel

2011-12-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

Some friends and I went in to buy some prizes for a very special little baby. This baby has some special needs, and was born to a young woman who doesn't have a lot of money. What she does have, is a lot of love for this baby :)

I was just saying that I wondered why someone who wasn't "settled" wouldn't give up their baby for adoption. There are so many lovely families looking for a child of their own, and wouldn't that just make more sense? But I've never been a mother. I don't begin to understand that attachment you have to that little life growing inside of you. And so I hushed up and decided that if this little baby was going to stay where he was, he probably needed some things to make him feel special. And loved. Because he is.

Here's what we came up with. I think we did pretty darned good if I do say so myself!

(Dream On Me Classic 2 in 1 Convertible Stationary Side Crib - $99)

(Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams Crib Mattress, White - $52.99)

(J.Lamb & Friends Waterproof Fitted Crib Pad, White - $10.99)

(Luvable Friends Fitted Knit Crib Sheet, Celery - $8.69)

(Luvable Friends 6-Pack Flannel Receiving Blankets - $12.49)

(Gerber Stripe Nylon Diaper Tote - $18.39)

(The First Years Jet Stroller - $39.99)

(Kiddopotamus Snuzzler Complete Head and Body Support - $12.75)

(The First Year's Infant To Toddler Tub with Sling - $17.98)

(Bright Starts Fun on Safari Cradling Bouncer - $21.29)

Thanks to Amazon's free super saver shipping, we were able to get all of this for only $300.13. Not too shabby! Unfortunately, for anyone interested, the crib has increased to $119 as of today. But it's still a great deal :)

So, for those of you mothers out there...did we do okay? Formula & diapers are being assisted with by another group, and another friend is probably going to be donating some gently use baby boy clothes and some other little things.

I sure hope this little angel feels the love this Christmas!

T

Aaaaaaaaand....

2011-12-09T14:08:00.001-05:00

.....because mrs.mfc is so NOT a fan.....

My winter blog header :)

I think it makes me look like a hooker. With a big rear. But, truth be told...I do kindove have a big rear. I also spell kindove wrong.

But who's counting?

Mwah!

T

Ho, Ho, Ho... No, Not You Silly!

2011-12-09T13:25:00.001-05:00

I made some changes/updates to yesterday's post about the Virginia Tech shootings. I'm sure everyone knows the story by now, but I like to have my facts straight. So they are straightened. If you are interested.

It's been a long week. Yesterday was hard.

I still don't feel like posting about my trip to New York City for Christmas. I'm really excited, and have lots to tell you about, but I think I'll save that until Monday. Hopefully a cheery day :)

I will tell you that my friend The Sports-o-Nista just returned from Manhattan. She took this photo for me:

(photo by The Sports-o-Nista)

Apparently Macy's has been overtaken by westies. I absolutely cannot wait!

We've got a full weekend planned. Tonight is game night with some couples we haven't spent nearly enough time with in the last year. Rumor has it we will be playing "The Newlywed Game". The old school version.

(i'm totally that girl on the far left. the blonde. i suppose that makes TEN the guy next to me. nice collar TEN. hehehe)

Should make for a VERY interesting night.

Saturday is the Young Professional's Organization that we are very involved with's annual Christmas Cocktail Crawl. I found my jingle bell antlers last night, and they are all polished and ready to go. Louis has his annual check up at the vet first thing in the morning, and then we're off to celebrate!

(last year's cocktail crawl. don't mind my expression. i'm pretty sure i'm about 3 sheets to the wind)

Sunday we plan to get my tree. I still don't have a tree. I know, I know. It's abominable. I do have a beautiful fresh Frasier Fur wreath with a big red bow on the front door. So that kindove counts. Kindove. And Louis has been wearing his Christmas sweater. That's got to count for something.

Time to Get Festive!

T

Prayers for Virginia Tech...Again

2011-12-08T13:48:00.001-05:00

I was getting ready to post something I had written about the holidays. But then I heard the news.

There has been another shooting at Virginia Tech. ~~A police officer was sitting in her cruiser, and the gunman walked up to the window and shot her.~~ (correction...~~she~~ he was making a routine traffic stop. and some rando - not the person stoped - walked up and shot ~~her~~ him.) ~~She~~ He didn't make it.

And now there is another victim in The Cage parking lot. (UPDATE - they didn't make it either)(UPDATE - he was the gunman & shot himself.)

What is going on? Why is this happening?

Prayers for the students & faculty of Virginia Tech who were simply gearing up for exams. Minding their own business. Please keep them safe.

Prayers for the family of the police officer. I know they will miss ~~her~~ him terribly. Prayers for the ~~other victim's family as well.~~ gunman's family as well. (Not for him, mind you, because I'm still too angry to waste my prayers on him at the moment. But I feel for his family. How terrible to be associated with someone so evil.)

Westie Wednesday

2011-12-07T13:00:00.001-05:00

A certain little white puppy is feeling under the weather on this Westie Wednesday :( He may have had too much left over turkey, or perhaps he is just overwhelmed by the excitement that Christmas decorating has brought to the house.

Whatever the case may be, his belly is NOT pleased. Poor little muffin.

This morning, as I was leaving for work, he moaned from his crate.. "mummy. mummy. pleeeaassseeee don't tell anyone that i messed myself yesterday. pleeeeeaaassseeee" What a pitiful little voice I heard from the kitchen. And so, I'm not going to tell you about that. I'm just going to show you this sweet picture I took of him on Monday evening when I said "Where's your daddy? Where ISSSSS your daddy?"

Cracks me up every time :)

Sickly Westie Licks,

T & Louis

Dawn Has Broken

2011-12-05T13:51:00.001-05:00

****SPOILER ALERT! SPOILER ALERT!****

Good heavens. How in the world I forgot to tell you that I saw Breaking Dawn this weekend is beyond me! BFF and I went to the 1pm showing on Saturday afternoon. I, obviously, wore my "Team Edward" t-shirt. BFF did not wear her "Real Men Sparkle" t-shirt, and I was slightly disappointed.

I guess she is not as wrapped up in this Twilight movement as I am.

Couple of things. First, Bella should have worn this dress for her wedding...

....it was much prettier than the one she wore. Sorry. But it was.

Second, Bella is really annoying these days. I mean really annoying. I'm glad that it all worked out for her, but I must say that there was a little part of me that wanted it not to. Just because she was such a martyr about that baby and such.

Yes, I read the books. Yes, I know what is going to happen in the movies. No, that doesn't keep me from being disappointed when she turns out to be just as whiny and irritating as she was in the books.

My friend J posted this on his FB wall. His wife made him go to the movie with her. I think he sums up the movie rather well....

I'm just going to spoil Breaking Dawn Pt 1 for everyone:

Edward and Bella get married.

Edward and Bella do it...for like an hour of the movie.
Edward yells at the baby he put in Bella cuz it's trying to kill her.

... Intermission - While you wait here are some working baby names: EJ (Edward Jacob) or Renesme (their mom's names combined).

And we're back - Baby is still trying to kill Bella. Good baby.
Someone says "Oh maybe the baby wants blood".
Bella drinks a buncha blood and has baby, dies, then comes back to life.

And that's about what happens. Seriously.

Remind me again why I'm so crazy about this series???

T

Now That That's Over With...

2011-12-05T11:42:00.001-05:00

I have been remiss in chronicling my life as of late. One would assume that it was due to me being so busy living. One would be incorrect. I've just been too busy being lazy ;) But I've earned it!

The Saturday after Thanksgiving I hosted a little Va Tech/UVA game day get together. I do this every year, since most of us don't make it to the game. This year TEN and I made the following snacks for the party:

TEN's Homemade Turkey Chili

T's Stuffing Fritters

Potato Croquettes

Red Pepper Jelly over Cream Cheese w/Triscuits

Taco Cheese Ball

Of course we were so busy making these tasty treats that I forgot to take pictures. But believe me, the house was decked out...and the treats were delish!

The Real Housewife of Charleston, and Mr. Charleston, came to the game party...and look here at what they brought me!!

Isn't that the cutest??!?!?! It's an ornament for the tree, with Louis' little picture in it. Louis is snuggled up in that blanket that TRHoC game me for Christmas last year. The one with westies and scotties all over it. Presh little muffin :) She printed the photo off of the computer, put it in that adorable ornament and hung it around a bottle of Pinot Noir. Be still my heart! (you see why we are such good friends!)

slively and his wife and son came over for the game. They brought me a prize as well! I was so spoiled, and there was definitely a theme emerging:

I think everyone is pretty sure that you cannot go wrong with a a bottle of wine and a dog :) Not sure what that says about me, but that's okay!

The next day, Sunday, was mrs.mfc's baby shower. It was a lovely event, but again...no pictures of my own :( Bad, bad T. I pilfered a few from Marilyn Monroe...

I spent much time last week on my:

And I'm pretty proud of myself, to tell you the truth. I do not like exercise one bit, but I've got the stereo set up in the basement. I get home from work and turn that sucker up to high, grab my 3lb hand weights (shush it! no giggling!) and go to town on that treadmill! It feels great :)

Friday night BFF and I went to my absolute favorite restaurant in Smalltown, VA. I always split the scallop appetizer with my dinner date, and then order the filet oscar. Always. I also always clean my plate. Only this time...

I was slightly devastated, and requested a to go box. WHAT IN THE WORLD IS GOING ON HERE?!?!?!? I have never been unable to finish off what I deem to be the most perfect meal in the world. NEVER. Until Friday night :(

TEN was a happy camper, as he enjoyed my doggy bag..... He did share some with Louis. Louis & TEN eating my prized fielt oscar. Hmph. Well, at least it didn't go to waste....

Saturday night was our wine club's Christmas Party! Always a festive occasion, and always hosted by mrs.mfc. She and mr.mfc are such wonderful hosts, and the food and decor is always beyond fantastic :)

(TEN and I at the party. what do you think of his Novembeard?)

(BFF, me, The Voice of Reason, Barbie)

(me, the girls......, mrs.mfc)

Now...I should be all caught up. Well, except for the fact that I won a SHABBY APPLE DRESS GIVEAWAY!!! Eeeekkksss!!! *squeals and dances around with joy*

Do you know Barefoot in the Park? If not you probably should. She's presh as can be (and she has a very clever pup. as in he can do tricks and such. srsly). She also hosted an Amaaaaaaaaaaaazing giveaway earlier this month. A dress from Shabby Apple was up for grabs, and if you haven't figured it out by now....THIS lucky girl won!

I went back and forth, and all around, and these were my final top 3 choices:

(The Ferris Wheel Dress)

(The Overboard Dress)

(The Gondola Dress)

It was a VERY tough decision, but I decided on the Gondola Dress!! I cannot wait for it to arrive :)

And THAT's all folks.

All caught up and ready to face the week. A week of Christmas Tree putting up, Christmas decorating, Angel Tree shopping and a weekend of The Newlywed Game & a Christmas Cocktail Crawl.

Gotta love the holidays!!

xoxo,

T

Let's Discuss....

2011-12-02T11:48:00.001-05:00

Did someone really write in to ask this? Seriously?

Bless their little heart.....

(click on image to read article)

I was recently "called out" by someone for my not inviting them to a get together. But this certain someone is famous for not RSVPing. In my opinion, if you can't bother to let me know if I should purchase cocktails and food for you, then I can't bother to invite you. I am OCD people. I NEED to know who is coming to my house. (Last minute emergencies aside, of course!)

So when this little gem showed up on Facebook today, I couldn't help but re-post. Quite a spark of conversation has started over Miss Manners article of the day, and I've found myself pondering a few of the questions that have been posed:

Should "maybe" be deleted from the list of RSVP options?

Must one reply to a Facebook "invite" when it's obvious everyone the invitor is friends with has been invited? It certainly isn't a "personal" invitation. Is it rude to ignore?

Is it "tacky" to follow-up with people who have missed the RSVP date, and neither confirmed nor denied their attendance?

What do YOU think?

T

Westie Wednesday

2011-11-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

Quite a few years ago, a dear friend gave me this print. I put it in a very special place (read: place where it would not get lost), and then proceeded to lose it! This print was given to me before Louis came to live with me, and for that reason is even more special. :) I finally had it framed, and it is on the fire place mantle in my living room.

Louis spent most of the Thanksgiving Holiday resting his eyes. And his paws. And his belly. He pretty much rested everything on various part of the couch....for 6 days. He is an excellent rest-er.

Well, until he found that mouse under my woodpile. Then was quite alert!

I fear he's a wee bit out of shape though. There is still a mouse in my woodpile :-o

Westie Licks,

T & Louis

Oh The Places You'll Go!

2011-11-29T15:00:00.000-05:00

I have been in the mood to cook a lot lately.

I think it's the change of seasons, and the general desire to "hunker down" for the winter that finds me at home with the time to do so. Even though it's still an average of 70 degrees or something here in Smalltown, VA....the days are shorter, and the leaves have fallen. It's time to cook!

I found a recipe that I had tucked into an old notebook. I remember the day I pulled the recipe out from my Real Simple Magazine. I remember thinking that the presentation was lovely, but that the recipe sounded too "hard" for me. I pulled the recipe out anyway. That was probably 4 years ago :)

Last week I found myself chuckling at the memory. Too hard? Could I have been serious? And I stood there in the kitchen having one of those "flashback" moments that take us by surprise sometimes. You know the ones. A certain smell, or a song on the radio...and you're gone. Back to the 8th grade. Or Senior Prom. Or whatever. So anyway, I'm standing in my kitchen and I remember standing right there and thinking "maybe if my mother comes to visit sometime I could make this. it looks impressive, and it's healthy. nahhhh...i'd mess it up. it's too hard." And I tucked it into a notebook.

What a silly girl I was! Too hard? Psshhht! But, I hadn't been practicing back then! I hadn't given myself the chance. And I'm just so glad that I kept that recipe in the old notebook. And that I found it just the other day. And that I cooked it. And that it was a success :)

Balsamic Poached Chicken

1 pound new potatoes, halved or quartered

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 pound asparagus, trimmed

1 14.5-ounce can chicken broth

1 cup balsamic vinegar

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

I don't mean to sound arrogant, or as if I am some sort of fancy pants chef, but that I was intimidated by this recipe really makes me giggle. Now :)

First, you take 2 pounds of new potatoes and you put them into a roasting pan in the oven. Season with 3/4 teaspoon of the salt and 1/4 tsp of black pepper, and toss. Roast for 30 minutes, shaking the pan once.

Meanwhile, in a saucepan, bring 14.5oz chicken broth & 1 cup balsamic vinegar to a boil. (SIDE NOTE - be sure to have windows open, fans on, etc, before you start boiling this vinegar. We followed this suggestion and didn't have a terrible smell. I have heard it can be horrid if you don't take precautions!) Add the chicken and, if necessary, enough water (up to 1/2 cup) to cover it. Simmer for 1 minute. Cover, remove from heat, and set aside until cooked through, about 15 minutes.

Add 1lb asparagus to the pan with the potatoes, season with the remaining salt, and toss. Roast until the asparagus is tender, 12 to 15 minutes.

After removing the chicken, continue to reduce the chicken broth/vinegar mixture for about 10 minutes. You are looking for a thickening in the mixture to drizzle over the finished product.

And then......

Could it be any easier?

The potatoes and asparagus were divine! The chicken was good too, but we were wondering if perhaps marinating it for a bit in the chicken broth/vinegar mixture and then grilling it may be even better? Or, perhaps it would be too overpowered with vinegar that way?

Regardless, I'm sure we will try this recipe (in one form or another) again!

Oh, the Places You'll Go!

by Dr. Seuss

Congratulations!

Today is your day.

You're off to Great Places!

You're off and away!

Feeling Bold & Sassy in the Kitchen,

T

Gullah Gullah Gumbo from Charleston, SC

2011-11-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

When we were visiting Charleston, SC earlier this fall, we picked up a few of these little starter packets for different types of low country food from Gullah Gourmet. We had yet to make any of them, so on a cold and rainy evening we decided it was time for the Gullah Gullah Gumbo!

Inside the bag were two pouches. One with rice, and the other with all of the spices.

The directions told us to bring the spices to a boil.

And in the meantime to cook the shrimp/chicken/spicy sausage/etc. I had chicken & spicy sausage on hand, so that is what we used.

Then, we added the chicken and sausage into the boiling mixture (which had really thickened over the last 20 minutes), and we couldn't wait to try it!

We boiled the rice, and filled our plates.

It hit the spot for a cold and rainy night. *HOWEVER* if we were ever to make this again, we would need to add MORE spice. Yes, you heard it here friends. I really am becoming a spice-a-holic. MORE, MORE, MORE! Even TEN agreed that it was delish, but could have used some spicy peppers to give it a bit of a kick.

Have you ever made one of these Gullah Gourmet meals in a bag? If so, did you like it? Which one was it?

T

Monte My Cristo, S'il Vous Plaît

2011-11-28T14:26:00.001-05:00

Two weeks ago, or something like that, we had PJ Brunch Club. It was at my house, and we decided to make the following menu:

Monte Cristo Sandwiches

Scrambled Eggs

Sausage Links

Bacon

Fruit Salad w/Marshmallows

Mini Eclairs

I have always wanted to make a Monte Cristo Sandwich. And now I have. I am a fan :)

Everyone arrived at 1pm, and TEN and I were sporting our Vineyard Vines westie PJ pants :-o

I invited all pups to this gathering of the PJ Brunch Club, and so we had some additional guests this time!

(Frosty Paws for the pups!)

PJ Brunch Club lasted until 8pm. I think everyone had a good time :)

I Am Thankful For...

2011-11-28T14:22:00.001-05:00

I started this post over the Thanksgiving Holiday. And I am so very thankful for so many things.

But some of the not so thankful things are overwhelming me right now. I'm reeling from things I am not thankful for. And things I am afraid of. And people who are not nice.

So we'll skip this post for today. Perhaps I'll feel more thankful this evening. Or tomorrow.

For now I'm focusing on these two guys....

....both of whom I am very thankful for :)

T

Rejoice!

2011-11-18T10:51:00.001-05:00

I have been wanting to do one of those "I am Thankful For" posts for a while, but alas....one thing I have NOT been thankful for is free time. I have made a pact with myself. Next week, over the holiday, I am going to catch up with all of my blog loves (I miss you so!), and I am going to do that "I am Thankful For" post.

I have just now gotten 3 messages in a row filled with the most wonderful news. I mean wonderful. My life is going to become much easier as a result of one piece of news. A friend's mother has localized, operable, cancer. It has not metastasized, as we feared it could have. And another friend just posted a series of photos on my Facebook wall.

Mind you...the first and second messages are great gifts for which I am SO thankful for. But this last message made me cry. In a happy way :)

When I see these photos I imagine that the guy probably thinks nothing of jumping in to help. What a small thing he did to save a puppy's life! I wonder if he realizes how grand his small kindness seems to the woman? Her face in the next to the last photo is what brought me to tears.

see more WIN - Epic Win Photos and Videos

I think the world could do with a few more people willing to drop their pants and jump in. Don't you?

Thanks for the smile Gini.

Happy Friday!

T

Westie Wednesday

2011-11-16T12:28:00.001-05:00

I'm still trying to dig myself out of the weeds here in the land of Seersucker. Travel and clients who need attention do not make for an easy return.

You know the drill. I know you have all been there :)

So alas, I'll be back to chat once I get myself together.

Louis is feeling a bit worn out himself. Although I can't for the life of me determine why. The life of a West Highland White Terrier seems pretty relaxing to me. Expecially when you have your very own westie/scottie throw and a soft spot on the couch.

I Don't Know How to Spell Empanada

2011-11-14T15:09:00.001-05:00

The Friday before I left for my travels I wanted to relax. We decided to make Sweet Corn & Bacon Empanadas from a recipe I found on Just a Taste. There was some grilling of a chili pepper involved, and some crimping with a fork, and then..........there was bacon. I didn't think we could go wrong there :)

Ingredients:

2 large chili peppers (of desired heat)

3 strips bacon

2 cups frozen yellow sweet corn

1½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese

½ cup chopped scallions

1 package pie dough (two 15-oz. sheets)

1 egg yolk

1 Tablespoon water

Pinch of smoked paprika

Directions:

Roast the chili peppers by holding them over an open flame until the skin is completely charred. (Alternate method: Preheat the oven to 400ºF and roast the peppers on a baking sheet for 20 minutes, flipping them over once while roasting).

Place the roasted chilies in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Sweat the peppers for 10 minutes.

Peel the chilies then slice them in half, scraping out the seeds and removing the stem.

Dice the chilies and place them in a bowl.

Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the cooked bacon and reserve 1 Tablespoon of the grease.

Chop the cooked bacon and add it to the bowl with the diced chilies.

Add the corn, along with the reserved bacon grease, into the pan and saute for 8-10 minutes until it begins to brown slightly.

Add the diced chilies, chopped bacon, shredded Cheddar cheese and chopped scallions into the pan with the corn. Toss to combine.

(we didn't have any scallions to chop, so TEN went to town on a white onion)

Refrigerate the corn mixture until it has completely cooled.

Preheat the oven to 400ºF.

Unroll one sheet of the pie dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Use a cookie cutter (or trace around a large drinking glass) to cut out 3½" circles.

Arrange the dough circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Add 1 Tablespoon of the corn filling in the center of each dough round then fold the rounds in half. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the empanada closed.

Beat the egg yolk with the water. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash then sprinkle with a pinch of smoked paprika.

Bake until golden, about 15-18 minutes.

These little guys were pretty darn good! I will say that the whole smoking of the chilies, and sweating them, etc. made for a bit of prep time. And then the filling of the empanadas was time consuming until we got the hang of it.

I suspect this could become one of those "quick weeknight meals" if made a few times for practice. Of course we added some low fat sour cream. Because that's how we roll at Seersucker Central ;)

I'm playing catch up for the next few days, but I'm getting there!

T

Trip Down Memory Lane

2011-11-11T15:00:00.000-05:00

Hi there! Happy Friday :)

I hope you enjoyed my little trip down:

Sometimes it's good to take a step back, and to remember how you got from there.........to here. Don't you agree?

Of course, TEN and I broken up after a year. BUT...we got back together after a few months. I didn't feel that it was necessary to re-post all of that nonsense. I know you understand :)

T

Gather Round.....I Have an Announcement! - RePost

2011-11-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

I've decided to come clean. Well, perhaps that's a bit dramatic. I've kindove been trying to tell you about it all along...but I don't think my hints were strong enough. (sigh)

Do you remember my post entitled So I Met a Guy....But He Doesn't Count? And the one entitled So Then I Met a Guy....And He DOES Count? Of course you do! You don't read 300 blogs a day or anything :) No worries. I've linked back so you can refresh your memory, and then you can come back to today's post and I can say.....................

Ummm...yea. Turns out I got it backwards.

Yep. That's it folks. The one that did count ended up not really counting very much at all. AND...the one that didn't count ended up being..........

Well, he ended up being exactly what I was looking for...I just didn't know it. Life is funny that way sometimes.

He's still TEN, but I've realized that doesn't really matter:) He makes me laugh until I cry. He takes care of me when I hurt myself being a klutz...which is pretty much daily. He makes me want to relax and do nothing but watch movies and be lazy...which is really cool because I'm type A and can't relax. Ever. He makes me want to learn how to cook, so I can cook for him. AND THAT, my friends, is amazing in and of itself.

So......

TEN meet my blog. Blog, meet TEN:

WHEW! Now I feel like I can actually blog again. I was having the hardest time telling stories without talking about him :)

T

So I've Got Some Explaining to Do... - RePost

2011-11-10T15:00:00.000-05:00

I know I've been lazy about posting lately. There is a reason for that. I cancelled my MDC subscription. Here's the thing....I went out with countless people and they were all terrible. I know I shouldn't have given up, but I did. I never even e-mailed Normal Guy back. I just couldn't bare to go on yet another date with another person that I was pretty sure I wasn't going to like. Just call me Nellie Negative. It's okay. I admit it...I am :)

It's summer time and I need a break. I'm kindove sad though, because what silly stories will I have to blog about? My life really isn't that exciting. I've read countless blogs by other single girls out there who either give up the search, or find what they are looking for. Their blogs just stop because they really don't have much to talk about. I was thinking that would probably be the case for me.

Then I remembered this blog idea that I told MK about a while ago. It seems that every time I walk out of the door of my office something bizarre happens. Every time I walk back into the office I walk to MK's office door and say "you are never going to believe what just happened". Seriously. This happens at least 2 times a day. I then proceed to tell her the bizarreness that has just occurred and she says "omg...you should totally blog that". We decided I should start a second blog and call it "Crazy Shit That Happens to Me Every Time I Walk Out of the Door" or some such thing. I never started that blog. Perhaps it's time? Because seriously, there is some crazy stuff that happens. WIMP experienced an example of this last week when she dropped by for a visit.

So, I'm not sure exactly how I will go about this. There is always the chance that I will sign back on to MDC, so I don't really want to scrap this blog and I kindove like the name. But honestly, I'm not really trying to meet anyone new right now. I kindove like what I've got :)

Men Are Like Shoes - RePost

2011-11-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Voice of Reason and I had a mani/pedi last night, and then went for drinks. We came to the conclusion that men are like shoes. I've thought this often, but assumed I was probably nuts for using the analogy, so I kept my mouth shut. The Voice of Reason sees things the same way, so I guess I'm not crazy after all.

I want Monolo Blahniks. Because really...who doesn't? They are all (well, almost all) beautiful. That's a given. The best part about them is that somehow, as tall and spiky as they may be, they are comfortable. Always. I can dance all night in them, and my feet don't hurt. I guess that's why you have to pay $400 to $600 a pair for them. They are gorgeous AND comfortable.

When I shoe shop the thing that draws me to a shoe is whether it's cute or not. Let's be honest...that is how it is for most of us. Then I try the shoe on. Some shoes are uncomfortable, or not so cute, upon closer inspection. Others I have to wear around the store for a while to determine whether or not they will do. Even then, sometimes I purchase a pair and wear them out only to realize they are awful. You know the feeling? When you know you look cute, because your shoes are fabulous, but you are miserable all night because they are uncomfortable. I usually keep these shoes, and wear them out for dinner and things where I know I will be sitting down most of the night. They are worth keeping, but certainly can't be worn on a regular basis.

So....back to real life. I have about 5 e-mails in my MDC inbox that look promising. Normal Guy has sent a lovely e-mail, and I really need to reply. I'm just kindove taking a little vacation. Not because I don't still want to find my Monolos, but more because it's summer. I think that all of this shoe shopping is wearing me out, and perhaps I should just enjoy a pair of flip flops for now. Flip flops are awesome. They are cute, comfortable and can be dressed up or dressed down. Even if they don't look exactly right with your outfit, they still work. And, sometimes you find yourself picking them over your Manolos. Sometimes :)

Have a wonderful weekend friends. I hope the weather where you are is as lovely as it is in Smalltown, VA.

T

Skull & Crossbones...Here I come! - RePost

2011-11-09T15:00:00.000-05:00

I'm going to a get together at a private club tonight. I was invited by a good friend (male) who is convinced that I will find Mr. Seersucker at said private club. I've been to the club before, and know quite a few of it's members. I've never dated any of them, but for some reason I am never really "looking" for a potential Mr. Seersucker when I'm out with my friends. I'm told that this is probably part of the problem. So...I've put together a cute little outfit and I'm ready to check out the membership.

I wanted to share my outfit for tonight, and I tried that polyvore.com thing to put it together. The thing is....they don't so much have anything that I am wearing, or anything that resembles it. So excuse the hodge podge pasty paste I've tried to assemble below :)

In MY WORLD this is an Elizabeth Halter DRESS from J. Crew. I got it at an outlet store a few weeks ago, and apparently it was there because it's old school? I can't find it anywhere online. It also is not red. It's a floral print with royal blue, black and a natural color. This was the best I could do!

It's supposed to get chilly tonight, so I'm throwing this J.Crew cardigan in my bag just in case!

This fun little ring is ALMOST exactly like mine. I, however, got mine at Charlotte Russe for $4. I couldn't find my ring anywhere, so this will suffice.

And finally....my ears will be adorned with my extra-large faux pearls.

So...that's it! I realize I am going to look a bit like a crayola crayon box threw up all over me, but that's nothing unusual for me. Perhaps I am rushing the season a tad, but I just can't wait to break out all of my bright colorful things!

Wish me luck tonight friends!

T

The Voice of Reason - RePost

2011-11-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

The voice of reason has finally spoken. Well, it actually e-mailed.

I've never been a dater, per se. I explained earlier that my previous relationship MO is that I simply like a guy, he likes me back and we become boyfriend/girlfriend. There really hasn't been a lot of effort involved. We never went on dates to assess our compatibility or anything. We just hung out in a group of friends for a while and decided we liked each other. This is where I'm somewhat handicapped in the dating arena. I'm pretty much scared to death. If you have been keeping up with this blog you probably already know that. You have probably noticed that I seem to question ever single move I make. Even if I don't like someone at all, I continue to go out with them. I have been trying to adhere to this 3-strike rule I've been given because I don't seem to trust myself. I've gone completely bananas.

The voice of reason read my blog and e-mailed me with her thoughts. This voice of reason is someone I like a lot, and truly respect. She has been there people. I mean really BEEN THERE. She's done what I'm doing. She's dated. She's said goodbye to men she met for the simple fact that she really wasn't feeling a connection. Some of them were good guys. Just not for her. She didn't force herself to stick to a 3-strike rule, and she says I really need to learn to trust myself. She said all of this very kindly, and even shared with me some of her experiences. It meant a lot to me. What means the most is the knowledge that she has finally found her Mr. Right. She hung in there and found him. She didn't even have to go out with him 4 times to realize they were a good match. She knew the first time she met him that she like him.

I'm going to make a promise here tonight. I'm going to promise you (and most importantly myself) that from here on out I'm going to trust my instincts. I am no longer that broken girl who ended things with Mr. Right because I wasn't ready for him yet. I know that, and I'm going to trust my knowledge of that.

Thank you voice of reason. Thank you for being the light at the end of my tunnel. Thank you for reminding me that I really can trust myself. I'm truly grateful.

T

Why Don't You Have a Date? - RePost

2011-11-08T15:00:00.000-05:00

Friday night I was invited to a Little Red Dress Party. It was a fundraiser at a friend's house, and all the girls wore red dresses. I knew quite a few of the people attending, and a group of us met for dinner before the cocktail party. I adore getting dressed up, and was really looking forward to this event. I'm a sucker for charity, and this certain charity helps kids. You got me. I'm there. Checkbook in hand :)

The cocktail party was lovely. It was a great mix of single people and couples, and I love parties like that. Some people don't seem to realize that single people and couples can co-exist and not kill each other. I'm serious. Have you ever noticed some people don't invite single people to events if there will be mainly couples there? I have. I think it's hysterical really. Unless it's going to be some sort of orgy and everyone needs to be able to pair off or something I don't see the point.

I left the party at 10 and headed home because I had yet another cocktail party on Saturday. A full weekend of festivities for this single girl! I do believe this may have been the best Valentine's Day yet for me. No pressure. No perfect gift or cute scavenger hunt to plan. I just have to put on a dress and show up. Perfect!

Saturday night a girlfriend had about 25 of us over to celebrate the holiday. The theme was pink and red, so of course I wore purple. Usually I play well with others when it comes to themed parties, but with the holidays and then the Little Red Dress party I had exhausted all possible choices for a dress! I carried a red purse and wore red heels, so I think my outfit was acceptable.

I was asked twice on Saturday night "why don't you have a date?". I really wasn't sure how to respond to this. I could delve into all of the reasons for my lack of a date, but I'm finding it's easier to just say "read my blog". Is that bitchy of me? I think it probably is. I don't care. If the asker had been through the dates I've been through I guarantee they wouldn't want a date on Valentine's either :)

T

I Enjoy Studying Math on Friday Nights - RePost

2011-11-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

My date last night with Lehrer. Wow. Where to start? Let me begin by saying that I have called for full on happy hour with the girls tonight. It is needed. Believe me! Cheers to Efficient With Glasses, one of my girlfriends, who discovered a monumental ladies happy hour deal for us at a local bar. I am counting down the minutes, and unfortunately have a feeling that I am going to tie one on tonight. Oopsies!

I arrive at the Mexican restaurant about 15 minutes early. I had no idea where I was going, so I didn't want to get lost. I'm on the phone with my friend (and date for Saturday night's Republican fundraiser) TWW. TWW and I are making plans, and discussing the fabulosity of the evening when 7:15 arrives. You may remember TWW from a previous post about chickpeas and such found HERE. I tell TWW that I have to go, and step out into the rain. Blech! My hair isn't looking it's best, but overall I feel good about my outfit. I'm excited to see Lehrer again, and to figure out what it is about his mouth that bothers me. I'm also excited because this is the first time I have actually been looking forward to a second date with someone from match.com. WHAT WAS I THINKING?!??!!

Apparently Lehrer is running a bit late, so I sit on the bench right inside the restaurant and wait. About 5 minutes later he arrives. I stand up, smile and say hello. He wraps his arms around me in a bear hug. This would be sign #1. Remember Liz H. Kelly's advice about following your GUT, and looking for "showstoppers" I wrote about HERE? Well, my GUT was telling Lehrer to back off.

***Side Note - I'm not a touchy feely person. I've talked before about the fact that I don't like to kiss people before I've decided I really like them, and I certainly don't hold their hands or have bear hugs with them. I mean I really don't even know this character! What gives?

Lehrer and I are seated and begin talking. It's kindove awkward at first, but things get a little better. I'm realizing that I don't find him the slightest bit attractive. I'm not sure what I was thinking on Sunday. The thought of kissing him really makes me want to vom. Was it just the over exuberant bear hug that set me off? I'm contemplating this, when the REAL FUN begins. Get ready friends. This is bad. I mean B-A-D!

Lehrer takes my hand in his and starts rubbing it. Then, he leans in and attempts to rub my hand on his face. OH YES. He really did. (showstopper #2) I know that I must have had a startled look on my face, but that doesn't deter him. I snatch my hand away and explain to him that I'm not a touchy person, and that I don't like to be "physical" with people when I first meet them. Do you know what he says? DO YOU KNOW WHAT HE SAYS?!?!?!?! He proceeds to tell me that I just haven't been with the right man yet. WHAT? I thought I was going to pass out. Real people don't say this. Do they? Well, apparently they do. (showstopper #3)

The night went downhill from there. Why the heck didn't I just jump up and leave? Why didn't I let a showstopper be an actual showstopper, and listen to my GUT? Good question. Unfortunately, I don't have an answer :( I continue to listen to him talk, and somehow we end up on the subject of what we do on the weekends for fun. I'm very social, and usually have a cocktail party or event to attend. I'm waiting for him to tell me that he does the same type of thing....or....that he would find that fun. Oh no. Not a chance. HE likes to "study" or "play Peanuckle". You think I'm kidding? Nope! AND...he's not even in school. So what the heck is he studying you want to know? I want to know too, so I ask. Apparently he studies math, statistics, WWII, etc. Like real studying. Things that cause you to go to the library to do research and stuff. I can't help myself here. I have to ask. It goes something like this:

T: So...ummm....WHY exactly do you study this stuff?
L: I find it interesting. I can't stand to not know something.
T: But seriously. You do this on a Friday night at home by yourself?
L (while looking like this is completely normal and he can't understand why in the world I would question it): Yes
T: Oh.
L: I'm not a geek or anything though.
T: Okay.
L: You sound like you go out and drink a lot.
T: Well compared to you, I guess I do.

It's bad. I don't know what else to say. I launch into some discussion about an upcoming steeplechase I am attending, and then rattle on about a polo cup I am going to. He breaks in and says that I probably need a date for those things. Don't I? I tell him that I am looking for someone who also finds these things interesting. That's kindove a necessity for Mr. Seersucker. I'm hoping this tells him that he is NEVER going to be Mr. Seersucker. Nope!

Lehrer says that he would probably go to one such thing a year. Then, he proceeds to make fun of seersucker, big hats, the Kentucky Derby. Uggggghhhh!!! Back off you idiot! These are all of the things I love, and you are making fun of them!!!!

He then says he would like to have me come to his house to watch a move. THAT NIGHT! Jesus. Someone please just put me out of my misery.

I packed up my purse and said I was tired and ready to go. He walks me to my car. He says that a friend from Germany will be in for 2 weeks, and wouldn't I bring some friends out and we could all hang out. I say "whatever. call me". I just can't bring myself to tell him to get lost at that point because I am too exhausted.

How is it that people who seem perfectly normal at first turn out to be such weirdos? Is it them? Or...is it me?

Looking forward to happy hour,

T

Will You Marry Me? - Repost

2011-11-07T15:00:00.000-05:00

Date #2 with Romeo. We meet for lunch at a little Mexican restaurant downtown. He's in a t-shirt, jeans and boots. Apparently he took the day off. I guess he took the day off from trying to impress his date also?

Romeo orders his food, pays at the counter and then looks at me. Eeeeekkkkksssssss! I guess I should tell you that I'm old fashioned. In every way. I think women should work and get paid what men do and all that, but when it comes to dating try to court me just a little bit okay? It's not asking much. We don't have to go to the Four Seasons. Just wine and dine me for a few weeks and then when we decide to be a couple I'm happy to treat you sometimes too! I will cook for you and even iron your shirt if you have trouble with that. Just let me feel like a princess for a little while. You know?

Romeo then proceeds to start talking about how his ex-wife cheated on him with their next door neighbor. She is still with him, and there is a huge neighborhood battle taking place about the whole thing. (everyone sides with him of course!) On and on and on. I wanted to slit my wrist before my enchilada even arrived.

I decided this was strike 3 for Romeo. I'd tried. Really, I had. I couldn't wait to get away! Then again, I was hungry and wanted that enchilada. So...I suffered through whatever it was that he continued to talk about. Here's the thing. I wasn't even listening. It had to be obvious. Why wouldn't he write me off? He wasn't unattractive. Couldn't he find someone else?

After lunch he INSISTS on walking me back to my office. Ugghh! The entire time saying things like this:

"Your schedule is too busy. When are WE going to spend time together?"
"Why don't you take some time off and we can take a trip?"
"Let's snuggle on the couch and watch movies one night this week?"

OMFG! IS THIS GUY FOR REAL? Yes, my friends...Romeo is for real. Over the next week or so he continues to call me and leave me voice mails getting angry that I'm not calling him back. I blocked his number. Goodbye Romeo.

T

Guitar Hero Unleashes His Inner Rock Legend - RePost

2011-11-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

I decided that while I'm away in Boston this week I would re-cycle some old posts. Some of you are new friends, and we weren't reading each other's blogs back in the day when I started ol' DSS. For those of you who don't remember...I started this blog to document the ridiculousness of my Match.com experiences. This is the first of a series of my favorite posts from that time......

Finally! Guitar Hero and I make a date that works for both of us. How exciting:) There's some background here that I need to fill you in on, so sit back and get comfy because it's apparently a very small world.

About 2.5 years ago a good friend of mine was on Match.com. She was coming up from Richmond and stopped off in Smaller than my Smalltown, VA to have a drink with a guy she met online. She thought he was super nice, so she brought him the rest of the way to my house to go to the Tech game. It was supposed to be a girl's weekend, so I was a little irritated. They didn't really hit it off for a long term thing and quit communicating. No biggie. He did, however, spend the night in the spare bedroom at my house with us (this is relevant later!).

Flash forward 2.5 years....Guitar Hero and I connect. I'm telling my good friend about him and she says "OMG! You know who that is!". Sure enough, the more I tell her the more it matches up. My good friend is convinced that I should go out with him because she thinks he's really nice, and quite attractive. The problems are:

1. I was completely rude to him when I met him before. (at one point I said "could you please just stop talking?")

2. If I couldn't stand him then, am I going to be able to stand him now?

3. Is it weird to go out with someone your friend has gone out with? Even though nothing ever happened with them. Still....

I've got to say something to him, right? So, I e-mail him and he's completely aware of who I am. Okay, he must not remember me despising him. I'm going to meet him for a drink.

****Side note - the main reason this blog started is because of an e-mail I sent yesterday to my girlfriends who wanted to know how my date with Guitar Hero went. I sent them the following;

Well, he is nice and funny. We met at XXXXXX and stayed there until 9. Everyone left and I got the feeling they wanted to close, so we decided to head to XXXXXX. There were zero cars in the lot, so we headed on to my house for a few drinks. I thought he would be needing to leave soon b/c he had the drive back to Smaller than my Smalltown, VA. WRONG!

When we get to my house he pulls a guitar out of the back seat and heads to the door. (Yes, I did say he pulled out a guitar). We go inside, I make us each a drink and he proceeds to start playing the guitar. Not really my thing, so I said "hey, let's play name that tune" thinking it would be a bit more exciting. It was fun for a while. Then we talked about other stuff.

I don't know. I don't like the way he dresses, and he sure does talk a lot. I mean A LOT! He didn't ask a single question about me :( Anyway, he's coming in for (a bachelor and bachelorette auction for a local charity...great fun!) because I'm not messing around here with these guys anymore. I'm going to expose them to my friends, get feedback and then go from there.

So, he leaves my house and texts me. He had a great time. Blah, blah, blah. THEN...he texts "I think I will even let you kiss me this weekend". Gross. Tacky. Inappropriate. Then, he texts me "Get my room ready". Is he serious? That I am going to let him stay at my house? I know he has before when (my good friend) brought him to that stupid football game, but I wasn't happy about it then and I'm not happy about it now. So, I'm going to e-mail him and tell him that I think he is nice, and he is welcome to come in for (bachelor/bachelorette auction). However, I'm going to tell him that I'm a bit old-fashioned and I don't really think it's appropriate for him to stay at my house. I realize he has a 1.5 hour drive home, and if that is a problem then perhaps we can get together another time. I am not having a stranger stay in my house!!!! Too much, too soon. What is wrong with these guys I keep going out with. Or.....is something wrong with me?

So there it is folks. I'm taking him to an event. Yes, even after all of that creepy stuff. I did e-mail him and tell him my thoughts. He replied with the following:

T!!! No problem!!! I am still planning on 7:30 at your house, right? We can go, have a blast, and then if I am too tired to go home, I will grab a room. If not, I will drive back. It's that simple! I know you are secretly wanting me to stay there and are just using this as a cover, but the answer is NO!!! I am not staying there for quite a while I am afraid and you will have to get used to it!!! Sometimes, I just kill myself. Going to play tennis, call you after!!! Guitar Hero

He's a weirdo, right? Now he's going to call me tonight and I don't even want to talk to him. Was he trying to be funny with his response? That he assumes there we will continue to see each other for "a while" and there will be time for sleepovers later? Can't he even fathom that I won't like him? Isn't that possible? Icky! I don't like it. Why then can't I just tell him I've changed my mind and I'm not interested? I'll tell you why, because everyone has convinced me that I'm too judgemental and I need to give people a chance. Really? Do you think so? Ughh!

If tomorrow night is a bust I'm ditching the 3-strike theory and settling on 1-strike. Seriously.

T

Zzzzzzz....

2011-11-04T12:32:00.002-04:00

I sat down and tried to come up with something witty to say for today's blog post. Something fabulously charming to leave with you, while I'm gone next week.

Well, I don't have anything exciting to report. And, I don't feel like struggling to think of something charming to say.

Nothing is wrong or anything. I'm just dreading this week long work conference I'm facing :(

Have a great week, and I'll be back on Monday, November 14. Maybe by then I'll have been able to muster up an "I'm Thankful For" post.....

Until then.....Toodles!

Let's Talk Toothbrushes

2011-11-03T13:57:00.001-04:00

For years I've used a standard toothbrush.

I'll be the first to admit that I'm a bit of an over-brusher. My preference would be to brush my teeth about 5 times per day. I've always been that way, and I have really, really white teeth. So white that people routinely ask if I've had my teeth bleached. (not that there is a damn thing wrong with having your teeth bleached...i simply haven't) I think I've always credited my white teeth to my diligent brushing.

I also am a "hard" brusher, from what my dentist says. I brush too hard, and he can literally see grooves (with a magnifying glass) on my teeth. This was the latest news at my last dentist appointment. That, and the recommendation that I purchase a "spinning" toothbrush.

TEN uses a spinning toothbrush. So does mrs.mfc. I think lots of people use them. I have never felt the need. But, it seems that I am not to be trusted on my own with brushing. I cannot be relied upon to brush in smooth circles that will not grind my teeth to pieces.

I am now the proud owner of one of these....

I've used it for about a week. I can't quite decide what I think. My teeth DO feel more "slippery", like they do after I leave an actual dental cleaning, which is good :) I'm also using mouthwash 2-3 times per day. As a replacement for brushing. I'm only brushing twice a day.

What type of toothbrush to YOU use? Are you a standard type? Or a spinning type?

Is it crazy that I dread brushing my teeth with the spinning toothbrush? I almost want to go back. But I can't :(

Yes, I do realize this this entire post can be classified under #stupidwhitegirlproblems. But you know you have an opinion. So tell me.

Bundle of the Chicken

2011-11-02T15:00:00.000-04:00

Did I mention that I'm going to Boston for a week? It's for work, and will be full time, non-stop, grueling work. This conference exhausts me every year. So, in preparation for the nightmare week ahead of me I've decided to do NOTHING this week.

No hanging out with friends. No cocktails. No chores. Just laundry, packing, eating, working and going to bed by 10pm. Today is Wednesday, and so far I've been successful. Yay for me!

I have been couponing like crazy over the last few weeks...

and my stockpile is getting a bit out of control. I've got so much meat, chicken & frozen veggies that I can't really justify going out to eat.

I've gone back to my recipe book, and last night TEN and I made a recipe I've had earmarked for a while. I found the recipe on http://www.quick-and-easy-dinner.com/. I found my way to this site because although I LOVE/ADORE/ADMIRE/WANT TO BE Gina from Skinnytaste, there are some nights when I just need something, anything, that can be made in 1.5 minutes. Even if it isn't the most flavorful, fantastic, tasty thing I've ever had.

That's how I found this recipe, and although it is quite simple...there was dough and bundling involved. And that sounded like fun :)

Chicken Bundles

4oz. cream cheese, softened (I used Neufatel - 1/3 less fat!)
1- 13oz can of chicken (we could only find 10oz or 15oz. we used 15oz.)
1 Tbs. sesame seeds (honestly...i forgot these. oops!)
1/4 tsp. parsley
2 cans Pillsbury crescent rolls - leave in fridge until ready to use
1 Tbs. finely chopped onion or dried minced onion (we used fresh, finely chopped)

Please click the title of the recipe above for directions. I will share a few things with you that are notable though.....

(TEN was the "official" Chef of the evening :)

I forgot to pick up sesame seeds, so TEN suggested using a stalk of celery to add some crunch. We added it to the filling, and it was delish!

I think this mixture is some sort of chicken salad almost, so I'll bet you could add nuts or any other such thing you like in your chicken salad if you wanted to. It almost might help to make it more "exciting" to eat :-o

I have no idea what this recipe author is talking about regarding the crescent rolls. Unless we forgot to do something, 2 cans are always going to be needed. We were left with 2 strips of dough, and made 2 crescent rolls so we didn't waste anything.

Thank goodness a reader wrote in, because apparently we missed a step too. Although what that step is, is beyond me. Buy 2 cans of crescent rolls. Trust me.

The chicken bundles weren't bad, they were just.....there. Pretty healthy, but pretty bland. Perhaps using fresh roasted chicken would help? And maybe some peppers or something to take the spice up a notch? As I said....I'm pretty sure you could enhance this recipe anyway you like, and it could only make it more enjoyable!

The pouches were warm and crusty. The concept was great. The filling needs some work :)

Westie Wednesday....It Is...

2011-11-02T13:51:00.000-04:00

We still don't know who won the costume contest at day care, but in our book this guy did:

May the force be with you!

Westie Licks,

T & Louis

Spooky....

2011-11-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

I've heard quite a few people talking about it. Most of them seem to like it. I wasn't familiar, and thought I probably should be.

American Horror Story.

Are YOU familiar?

I found the first 3 episodes through On Demand for free, on FX's On Demand channel. I watched them. One after the other after the other. I think I like it :)

Not to insinuate that the show makes any sense. Because it doesn't. I mean, parts of it do. But I'm to the point now that I can't really figure out what is real, and what isn't. And then I found myself really happy that girl was killed by that man. With the shovel. I don't feel good about that. Me being glad someone is dead.

But I am glad.

Do I need to worry?

I looked high and low for a good description of the show. No luck. Here is the best that I could find. Yes, I'm serious...

"A family of three move from Boston to Los Angeles as a means of reconciling their past anguish. They move to a restored mansion, unaware that the home is haunted. " -IMDb

I'm going to leave it at that, because I'm afraid that if I try to expand I'll end up giving something away. Seriously. I just have no idea how to paraphrase any of it. I tried to tell mrs.mfc about it, and failed miserably :( Because I want her to watch it, but I want her to discover things (just as I did) along the way. Because no one paraphrased it for me. Which I found irritating. But now I understand. They really....couldn't?

Here's another little blurb I found. It will either entice you, or irritate you. Because you are probably going to want to run right home and watch this show to figure out what in the heck I'm talking about. And that's okay. Go for it :)

"American Horror Story is truly bizarre. In fact, it’s strange enough that you can barely go to a bar without overhearing people talk about their theories as to what’s going on with the characters and plots. And there’s a lot of characters and a really vague plot.

However thin the plot appears to be, the show’s creators, Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, have managed to weave together perfectly balanced elements of shock, horror and storytelling to accomplish what many thought would fall flat. And in a way, the doubts people had about the show actually ignited the fury behind trying to figure out what Murphy and Falchuk are planning. "

See what I mean?

T

Pot Roast, Pinot & Pumpkins! It's Fall :)

2011-10-31T14:09:00.000-04:00

I am LOVING the fall weather we are having. Well, Saturday it seemed more like winter...but it's back to fall now :)

Sunday I made my mother's pot roast in the crock pot. I do this every year when fall finally arrives. Granted, I make it many times throughout the fall and winter...but my mother's pot roast being made is what "officially" kicks off the change of seasons in my house.

(this is not a picture of my actual pot roast. i was too hungry to stop to take any photos!)

Now, YOUR mother may make her pot roast the same way, but this is MY mother's recipe. Understand? Good :)

T's Mother's Pot Roast Recipe

1 large beef chuck roast roast

8 medium new potatoes

12 carrots, peeled and cut

1 can Campbells Cream of Mushroom soup

1 pack of Lipton Onion Soup Mix

Place the roast in a 6 quart crock pot, after browning the meat on the stove. Wash carrots & potatoes, peel and cut the carrots and place them all around the roast in the crock pot. Pour the Campbells Cream of Mushroom soup over the top of the roast, and then sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup Mix over the soup. Add 1 cup of water. Turn crock pot on Low setting for 8 hours.

I've gotten out of my regular cooking regimen, and I'm really missing it. So, this week I plan to catch up. Tonight TEN's uncle from Phoenix is coming to town, and we will be having supper with him. We're going to Shula's, and more than likely I'll have this:

(Shula's Jumbo Crab Cakes)

OR THIS....

(Shula's Filet)

I'm leaning towards the crab cakes though, because another night this week we will be dining at The Outback in support of a local school (thanks mrs.mfc).

Where I'm more than likely to have this:

(Victoria's Center Cut Filet)

Back at the ranch.....that leaves 3 additional nights for cooking!!

I've purchased everything I need, and am really looking forward to fires in the fireplace while enjoying wine and trying some new recipes. TEN just got back from a week out of town for work, and I'm leaving Saturday for a week in Boston. I'm taking this week for myself to just "catch up", in general :)

What are your favorite things to cook, eat or do to celebrate the arrival of fall? Or, are you in morning? I used to be in mourning, but somewhere along the way....I really fell in love....with Fall!

(photo credit to Ann from Ann's Snap Edit Scrap - isn't this a perfect photo of fall?)

Topless or Not Topless? That Was The Question....

2011-10-31T11:10:00.000-04:00

Halloween didn't quite turn out as planned for me. Or for TEN.

Remember that I said I was going to be be the Chiquita Banana girl?

And TEN was going to be this Mexican of sorts?

Well, my costume arrived Friday. I found it on my neighbor's porch for some reason, but was pleased it had arrived in time. I ripped open the box, and pulled out the skirt. It was fabulous! The basket for my head...awesome. The maracas...100% authentic. The shirt....

ABSENT!

Seriously. No shirt. Great. I almost cried, but I didn't. I told myself I really didn't care about Halloween anyway. I'm too old to care. I would just go to the party as T. So there!

Saturday morning TEN and I went to a few places to find some extra accessories for his Mexican costume. Along the way we found a witch's hat. And a plastic cauldron. I've never been a witch before. And so....

(me & Marilyn Monroe...witchy women)

The funniest part is that I had everything in my closet that I needed for my costume. Even these:

And this wig:

Along the way, TEN found another costume. He's saving the Mexican until I can get my Chiquita Banana gig together.

(Witch w/a cauldron for purse & Mr. Luck)

Even Louis' Halloween costume had a bit of an issue. This year TEN insisted that Louis be something "manly". You may remember that last year Louis was this girl bumble bee:

Personally, I liked the girl costume better than the boy costume.

This year TEN picked Louis' costume. We ordered a Small, but apparently Louis is an extra small. I had to break out the needle & thread. It was the best I could do, and he wouldn't let me snap a photo with his ears on, but....

(Yoda I am)

I giggled the whole way to day care today. I hope he wins :)

Happy Halloween friends! I hope your Halloween has more treats than tricks.

T

Genius

2011-10-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

I like this quote. A lot. I think that so many of us attempt to judge ourselves by the measurements of others.

Perhaps that is why we are so often disappointed?

I saw this on Facebook yesterday, and it made me smile. Sometimes the simplest of statements are the most genius. Wouldn't you agree?

So here's to being yourself! To excelling at what you do best. To kicking up your heels and going for it :)

If anyone has something snarky to say, it's probably just because they're jealous.

Have a lovely weekend!

T

Hola! Mi nombre es T. ¿Cómo estás?

2011-10-27T09:00:00.000-04:00

TEN was going to be a Mexican Tequila Ranch Hand Farmer El Rodeo Server such thing for Halloween last year. As it turns out, that didn't happen. So, he's decided he will be that this year. I don't really have a photo of his costume, but it's something along the lines of this:

Truth be told, neither of us have been very excited about Halloween this year. Every year it's a big to do, starting months prior. This year I've had way too many truly important things going on to worry about a Halloween costume :(

It really wouldn't bother me one bit if TEN and I skipped the Halloween Party this year. It's been the same old thing, with the same old people, for the last 5 years. I'm kindove over it.

BUT...we're going.

So, I needed to be something...and I really didn't care what that something was. The forecast is now calling for rain, and so I have ordered the following "plastic" costume to wear out Saturday night:

Yes, I realize that this is more of a Spanish/Latin Dancer costume than a Mexican Tequila Ranch Hand Farmer El Rodeo Server type thing like TEN. But it's plastic. And there is a headpiece with grapes and bananas and oranges and such on it. I've secretly always wanted to wear a basket of fruit on my head ;)

So, there you have it. I've also purchased the maracas. Because what good is the costume without those?

What are you going to be for Halloween this year? Are you excited? Am I just getting old because I'm NOT excited about Halloween this year?

Boo!

Westie Wednesday

2011-10-26T13:25:00.000-04:00

I've been sleeping on the couch, and setting my alarm for every two hours, so that I can poke Louis to make sure he is still alive.

No, I'm not crazy! I just thought we may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning. Yes, I do have a carbon monoxide alarm.

TEN and I each bought one after we watched a program about a husband who killed his wife by carbon monoxide poisoning. It was totally intentional, and I trust TEN and all, but I still bought one. Just in case.

Anyway, I was laying on the couch after grocery shopping and started to have a horrible headache. Look here at what Wikipedia says about the side effects of carbon monoxide poisoning:

Symptoms of mild acute poisoning include lightheadedness, confusion, headaches, vertigo, and flu-like effects; larger exposures can lead to significant toxicity of the central nervous system and heart, and even death.

My headache kept getting worse, and then I went down to the basement to do some laundry. I smelled the most horrible "gas-like" smell. I have an ANCIENT oil furnace, and immediately became convinced that the pilot light must be out and the oil fumes were what I was smelling.

(this is not my furnace, but mine looks about the same. my basement, on the other hand, is much cleaner :)

I became convinced that Louis and I were being POISONED! Look here at what Wikipedia says about where carbon monoxide poisoning originates:

It is often produced in domestic or industrial settings by older motor vehicles and other gasoline-powered tools, heaters, and cooking equipment.

Alas, the pilot light was burning.

Then I thought I was crazy.

And so, I took Louis and we went outside.

BUT THEN....my headache got better! And he started perking up!

I came back in and tested the carbon monoxide alarm. It appeared to be working. I then turned every single ceiling fan on high. I turned the heather completely off, and put on winter PJ's and heavy socks. I bundled Louis up in a blanket, and I set my alarm for every 2 hours.

You see, TEN is out of town. He is the only person I would have confessed my crazy to without being embarrassed. And so...I decided that by waking up every 2 hours I would be able to keep Louis and I safe IF we really were being poisoned. Somehow it seemed like a really good plan.

And it may have been?

Both Louis and I are still alive, I'm happy to report :) I've not turned the heat back on in the house, but now the fans are off. Louis has lots of extra blankets to snuggle with if he gets chilled while I'm at work, and the heating/air person is coming to check out the situation for me.

So that's what has been going on in Louis' life this week. He's been poked and prodded, on a regular basis, by his crazy mummy. He's gone to day care to get him out of the house as much as possible. I've had my thread and needle out, trying to take in his Halloween costume. It ALMOST fits him. And...he's got a new friend.

Oh. Did I not mention that? Here, have a look at the new pup in Louis' life...

Westie Licks,

T & Louis

And Then There Were More

2011-10-24T13:38:00.003-04:00

Because one should never publish a post until everyone has had a chance to upload their weekend photos to Facebook, here are a few more :)

(the entrance foyer of the plantation house)

(the dining room)

(the library)

(who says only The Royals can do it?)

And Then They Were One

2011-10-24T12:49:00.000-04:00

Saturday afternoon we all boarded a chartered bus, wedding gifts in hand, to travel to a very old plantation on the James River.

An hour later we realized that we were in the absolute middle of nowhere....but it was totally worth it :)

(the gift TEN & I gave the grooms)

(TEN and I waiting for the ceremony to begin)

(the grooms - reading their vows)

(the place settings)

(wedding favor)

**NOW....Because I hate Blogger with a passion, but really want to show you these photos, I'm going to do a grouping of sideways pictures. Please turn your head to the right........

(the grooms coming out of the plantation house)

(the grooms at the alter)

And....now to the left please....

(TEN and I after the ceremony)

Excellent. Thank you :)

We danced into the night, and met so many lovely people. One of the grooms works as a fashion forecaster for menswear, and he travels to Milan and Paris regularly. Some of his friends from Europe made the trip for the wedding, and meeting them was a treat. The NYC fashion crowd was there, dressed from head to toe in black, and then there were their "Virginia friends". We were decked out in plaid, bright colors, etc. Because really...that IS how we do down South, don't you know?

Another lovely wedding weekend behind us, and now it's time to get down to business!!

The Annual Halloween Party is THIS Saturday, and I still haven't got a costume. I have no idea what I want to be, and I'm about to start panicking.

Ideas? Anyone?

Let's discuss....

T

And Then There Was Chanel....

2011-10-21T10:29:00.002-04:00

Last night Marilyn Monroe and I went to a benefit for pups & kitties.

It was called "Purses for Paws", and the idea is that when a family member is in hospice care their pets often become a burden for caregivers :( This wonderful fundraiser helped generate the money needed to assure that these pets are able to stay with their owners until the end, AND that the pets also have their needs met. It also helps to find new homes for the pets once their beloved owners have passed away.

Although hospice and death are not pleasant things to dwell on, the energy last night was all very positive. Pet lovers and purse lovers alike came to support the cause :)

Most of the auction items were purses, but there were a few other prizes as well! Like this pearl necklace, from a local jeweler, that "Lucas" is modeling:

The purse I really wanted was part of the live auction, rather than the silent auction.

I had my paddle, and was determined to win it.

And win I did!

My very first Chanel bag, and I am so very excited!! I know that I will treasure this bag for years to come, and I will never forget the good cause that purchasing it helped to support.

Thank you, Marilyn Monroe, for wanting to go with me to Purses for Paws :) Every time I carry "her" I will be reminded of our evening, and having to use your paddle to win because mine was covered in Cab Sauv :-o hehehe....

Louis was very pleased that we went to support the pups, and he thinks my new bag is nice. Not nearly as nice as his chewy stick, of course, but nice enough.

xoxo,

T

I Love My ______!

2011-10-20T11:53:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was Westie Wednesday, but I just had to do another Louis post today. Why, you ask? Well, because I logged on to Joss & Main and saw THESE:

They have so many breeds available, and for only $24.95!!!

From the tiniest of Chihuahuas to the mightiest of Great Danes, these natural birch signs have just what you need to recognize both style and unwavering friendship.

Log on to get your sign HERE! Louis says that your pup will be so very pleased if you do :)

Louis is pretty sure I've already purchased the Westie sign, and he's been looking high and low for it....

(truthfully - Louis has a toy basket that he drags to the middle of the

living room when he's bored. he pokes his head into the basket

looking for long lost toys that may be fun!)

Happy Thursday!

T

Here Come the Grooms!

2011-10-20T09:00:00.000-04:00

This weekend TEN and I are headed off to another wedding. I always thought spring/summer was considered "The Wedding Season", but apparently Fall is when our friends prefer to tie the knot :)

My friends, The DJ & The Forecaster, are getting married this weekend. They were "legally" married in Connecticut a few weeks ago (because Virginia is not trying to let everyone have equal rights), however, this weekend they are being "ceremonially" married at a charming plantation in Virginia.

I'm most excited, because I adore these two. They have been together for 13 years, and this wedding is way overdue :)

Both of the grooms are great fans of plaid. I've been told that plaid is the "theme" of the wedding, and when asked what the attire for the wedding was (both the wedding and reception are outside), I was told plaid. So....plaid it is!

I'm wearing this Lilly Holiday Plaid dress from about 112 years ago. It's pink & green, not so much red & green, so it's okay to wear for an October wedding...right? This is the best picture I can find, but you get the idea. I also have this fuschia Lilly silk cardigan to wear over it.

The fuschia heels I wore with it, once upon a time, are no longer with us. These have just arrived in my office, only the color is more purple-y fuschia. They are going to match perfectly!

The grooms did not register, so I was beside myself to come up with an idea for a wedding gift. Then, when Barbie and I visited them in September I knew what I should get! Not that they picnic THAT often, but when they do...they'll be ready :)

(blackwatch is the signature plaid of one of the grooms)

(i have these wine glass & wine bottle stakes, and they make picnicking with wine SO MUCH EASIER!)

(Gullah Gourmet - from Charleston, SC - Hattie's Hot Crab Dip. perfect for a polo match!)

(nautical wine sweaters for your wine bottle! i'm giving them the blue sweater with the life preserver on it & a bottle of wine)

(everything will be in this felt basket, of sorts, that they can use for something else.)

What do you think? Good gift for two grooms? I hope so :)

T

Westie Wednesday - Picture Perfect!

2011-10-19T13:43:00.003-04:00

Did I mention that Louis had a hair appointment on Monday? It's been long overdue. Remember these pictures:

Well, Monday I dropped him off first thing with a *NEW* groomer. I will never take him back to "those we shall not speak of", because they scalped my pup :( I happened to meet someone at Dogtoberfest who hand strips, and we're back in business!!

When I went to pick him up after work on Monday he pointed his nose up into the air, and pranced right out into the sunlight. Everyone said "ooohhhh...isn't that the cutest westie/white scottie!", and Louis shook his rear at them for show. He KNOWS when he is being complimented :)

***SIDE NOTE - I have learned that correcting people, when they call Louis a Scottie, is useless. They look at me as if I am wrong, and he clearly IS a Scottie. So, now I just smile and think to myself...."Awww...they don't know the difference. Bless their little hearts..", and move on.

Apparently the grooming session really wore him out, and he spent most of the evening on the back of the couch. Under TEN's sweater? Very interesting....

The other excitement in Louis' life this week is that I've finally completed his 2nd Year Photo Book! I don't know if you remember, but I completed one for his 1st Year when Shutterfly was offering a free book special of sorts last year.

This year I found another offer for a free photo book The Paper Coterie. This one is hard covered, and you simply pay the shipping charges:

(enter code MOMCREATIVE2 to save $38! a big thanks to The Mom Creative for this coupon code, and a big thanks to mrs.mfc for the head's up!)

I also went ahead and made my Christmas cards for this year. I am ordering them from Shutterfly again, but unfortunately...no code for me to get 50 FREE this year. Darn!

So I guess that's it. Louis is clearly the star of this family, and thank goodness I've got him looking his best because party season is just around the corner!

Westie Licks,

T & Louis

To Frye or Not to Frye. THAT is the Question!

2011-10-18T10:55:00.001-04:00

I've been on the boot search for quite some time. You know this. You helped me in my quest. And I've ordered. And returned. And ordered. And returned. And ordered. And returned.

Just moments ago I said to mrs.mfc "am I totally crazy? i think that after this weekend these will be mine..."

The Frye Melissa Trapunto. Welcome to my world.

Be still my beating heart.

T

Metallica are Hokie Fans? Yup.

2011-10-17T14:57:00.000-04:00

Daisy found a little tidbit in the Washington Post. It's about Metallica's Song, Enter Sandman, that is played as the Hokies run onto the field at every home game.

Apparently Metallica likes the idea :)

Check this out!

This clip is now going to be played right before Enter Sandman begins at the games. How fun is THAT?!?!

T

Relax & Rewind

2011-10-17T13:46:00.001-04:00

Could NOT have been a more perfect weekend :) Don't you just need those sometimes? The type of weekend where you REFUSE to make a plan with anyone. You REFUSE to be held accountable to be anywhere at a specific time. You just need to wake up when you wake up. You just need to eat...when you're hungry :) Most of my weekends used to be like that. I miss the feeling of waking up and thinking "hmmm...what shall I do today??". I'm trying to get back to that!

~~~ Friday ~~~

Friday TEN and I stayed in. The TV never even came on! All evening long we enjoyed wine, made a fire in the fireplace and talked. It was bliss!

We tried to put Louis into his Halloween costume, and we came to a realization. HE HATES IT :(

Whatever are we going to do? He cried, and struggled and just did not like this Yoda costume one bit. After a few unsuccessful attempts at getting him into it, he threw himself down in front of the fire...and sighed deeply.

The good news is, that was the most excitement we had on Friday evening :)

~~~ Saturday ~~~

Saturday we woke up late and I made breakfast. As simple as that sounds, it rarely happens at Seersucker Central. There is never time. We're always rushing off somewhere :( Eggs, turkey bacon and Weight Watchers bagels were on the menu. Mmmmm.....

We spent the day doing small chores (I have a new brass kick plate on my door - thank you TEN!!!), and then we ventured down to the corner wine shop for their open house. They had chili in a crock pot, and a wine tasting that we eagerly participated in!

After that, it was back to the house to watch a bit of football.

And then.....

It was time for the Smalltown, VA Ghost Tour!!

I learned quite a few things about Smalltown, VA on the tour...and most exciting was our visit to a little known cemetery. Spoooooky!

Here are some of my favorite pictures...

(that little box is a bell box. when the Spanish Influenza struck...people were often thought to be dead, and they were buried. only to wake up in their grave!! bell boxes were installed, with a string tied to the person's wrist, in case they awoke and needed to be rescued. YIKES)

After the tour we met up with a few friends downtown, and were in bed by 11pm :)

~~~ Sunday ~~~

Sunday we ran a few more errands, and I made Gina's Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili. I HIGHLY recommend this recipe, as it was absolutely delish! Daisy came over to join TEN and I for dinner, and we all scarfed down our meals :)

Here are the "stats" for the chili:

Servings: 10 • Size: 1 1/4 cups • Old Points: 3 pts • Points+: 5 pts

Calories: 203.7 • Fat: 1.4 g • Carb: 33.3 g • Fiber: 10.0 g • Protein: 16.9 g

It's funny how much my taste has changed, and how much I like spicy things now. We ate those stuffed peppers the other night, and although they were good....they really could have used some SPICE! I was sure to make this recipe as spicy as possible. I've made a few notations on the recipe (in red) to tell you what I changed to make it a bit "hotter".

1 onion, chopped
1 16-oz can black beans
1 16-oz can kidney beans
1 8-oz can tomato sauce
10 oz package frozen corn kernels
2 14.5-oz cans diced tomatoes w/chilies
1 packet taco seasoning (I used the "hot and spicy" Old El Paso seasoning)
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
24 oz (3-4) boneless skinless chicken breasts
chili peppers, chopped (optional) (I used 3 cayenne peppers from my garden)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Top with fresh cilantro. Also try it with low fat cheese and sour cream (extra points).

We definitely loaded up on the cheese and sour cream, and I made long grained white rice to serve the chili on. I don't think you need to serve it on the rice at all, and probably wouldn't the next time.

I'm rested and ready to face the week, which is a good thing because It's a busy one. AND...we're going to another wedding this weekend :)

Happy Monday!

T

Just How Clever IS My Pup?

2011-10-14T11:00:00.000-04:00

My laundry is done, and the dishes are clean and put away. I unpacked my suitcase, and packed up the dresses that need to be altered and those that need dry cleaning. I think I'm almost situated, and back to normal :)

Louis and I had major snuggle time last night, and I fell asleep on the couch with him. Morning kisses from my little man make everything right with the world.

Speaking of Louis...he has a hair appointment on Monday. He rolled in the mud at TEN's house (I think I told you that), and TEN washed him. The thing is, Louis has wavy hair. When he's groomed properly they blow out his hair (or something??) and he looks like a proper westie. When we wash him he looks like this:

(no, that isn't a lazy eye. his hair is just so long he can't see!!!)

Yesterday, while taking him to day care I jokingly said "Hey Louis...why don't you roll in poo today so that you can get a free bath?". I WAS JOKING. I swear! So, you can only imagine my surprise when I went to pick him up and he looked like this:

Yep. He rolled in poo and got a free bath. EGADS! Can my pup really understand me? And wasn't I just totally embarrassed?!??!! They now call it "pulling a Louis" when a pup rolls in poo :(

Not to dwell on the poo convo, but Louis NEVER does this anywhere but at daycare. He's done it a few times, and honestly...it's mostly when he's already dirty. And I wonder......does he just want a bath, and know they will give him one? Could he be that clever? OR...do they just feel sorry for him, because he's so nappy, and bathe him and use the poo as an excuse? I just don't know.

Tomorrow a local winery is having a Wine & Wet Noses Festival. Pups are welcome, and an animal rescue group will be there letting us know how we can help. I really want to go. I probably need to just lay on the couch and relax, but....well....they are having a costume contest for the pups! And I really don't want to miss that. Hmmm....we'll see.

Tomorrow evening we are going on a Ghost Tour of Smalltown, VA.

We have a town trolley, and we will ride around on the trolley while hearing stories of murder and mayhem. I'm excited! A ghost tour in Charleston, SC is one thing. But a ghost tour here in MY smalltown? I'm giddy :)

After that we're going to head to a local establishment to have a few cocktails 'FOR THE CAUSE'. Marilyn Monroe is going to zumba her heart out at the Party in Pink on Saturday day, and then there is an after party where a portion of the proceeds from cocktails sold will go to breast cancer research. I guess that means we'll be forced to have some cocktails :)

Sunday I'm going to make Gina's Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili, and I'll tell you all about how that goes on Monday.

It's been raining cats and dogs here for the last few days, and the basement of Seersucker Central has flooded again. My yellow wellies were finally laid to rest, and I'm rocking red wellies now. I have to admit...I rather miss looking like Paddington Bear in my rain gear. The Ronald McDonald look isn't quite as appealing.

Happy Weekend!!

T

Peppers With Ground Beef, Rice & Cheese? Yes, Please!

2011-10-13T14:30:00.000-04:00

I haven't been cooking very much lately. With everything I've got on my plate, unfortunately the things I enjoy the most seem to be getting pushed aside :(

I was ~~whining~~ talking about this the other day, and TEN took action! He sent me a recipe yesterday, and I decided that I would head to the grocery store after work to get the things we needed to cook.

The recipe is for Stuffed Peppers. Now, I will be the first to admit that the idea of stuffed peppers has always made me gag a little bit. My mother made these when I was growing up. The peppers were always soggy, there was always a bunch of ketchup in the meat (I abhor ketchup), and most of the time I just moved everything around on my plate hoping my parents would think I had eaten.

It wasn't that my mother was not good at cooking, because she was. It's just that I'm not a fan of peppers, or onions, or ketchup or....well, you get the point.

So TEN sends this recipe and my first response is to gag a little bit. But then I thought "T, your taste buds have really grown in the last year. You are eating many things you would never have considered in the past. Perhaps you should give this a try?" And so.....I did.

I'm pleased to announce that the peppers were NOT soggy. We did not use ketchup. And I enjoyed EVERY BITE :)

Now, get your pen and paper and I'll tell you how to make these tasty peppers!

Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef, Rice & Cheese

Total Time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

Ingredients:

· 6 green bell peppers
· 1 tablespoons butter
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· 1/2 cup chopped onion
· 1/2 cup chopped celery
· 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
· 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
· 1 clove garlic, crushed
· 1 teaspoon dried leaf oregano
· 1/2 teaspoon dried leaf basil
· 2 teaspoons salt, divided
· 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
· 1 egg, lightly beaten
· 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
· 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef or chuck
· 1 1/2 cups cooked long-grain rice
· shredded mild Cheddar cheese, about 1/2 to 3/4 cup, optional

**A couple of things. DO NOT brown the ground beef. The recipe doesn't specify that, and we wondered, but you do not cook the ground beef ahead of time. Also if you happen to forget to pick up the 8 ounce can of tomato sauce (like we did), and you happen to have a can of diced tomatoes with chilies added....you can puree that in the Cuisinart to make tomato sauce. And you end up adding a little bit of spice too!

Preparation:

Cut tops off peppers; remove seeds and membranes. Chop edible part of tops and set aside. Rinse peppers under cold water. Place peppers in a large pot; cover with salted water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. Drain peppers and set aside.

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Sauté chopped green pepper (from tops), chopped onion, and chopped celery for about 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, crushed garlic, oregano, basil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

In a large mixing bowl, combine egg with remaining 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently stir to blend; add ground beef, cooked rice, and 1 cup of the tomato mixture. Mix well. Stuff peppers with meat mixture and place in a 3-quart baking dish.

Pour remaining tomato mixture over the stuffed peppers. Bake at 350° for 55 to 65 minutes. If desired, top stuffed peppers with a little shredded Cheddar cheese just before peppers are done; bake until cheese is melted.

Recipe for stuffed peppers serves 6.

I cannot tell you how pleasantly surprised I was. We definitely added more cheddar cheese to the tops of the peppers than was called for, AND...we ate them in a bowl with chips and sour cream. Just to be different :)

T

Here Comes Another Bride....

2011-10-13T10:39:00.001-04:00

A few pictures from the wedding over the weekend, in Big City, VA:

(yes, this actually happened. yes, this picture is lopsided thanks to Blogger...my nemesis)

(sometimes a girl just has to have her own party :)

Their's is a sweet story, and I'm not sure I've ever been to a wedding where it was so obviously how in love the bride and groom were. They weren't able to quit looking at each other, or kissing each other, or holding each other's hand. Not in a creepy way...in a really sweet "no one else matters today but us" type of way. It was refreshing.

I'm off to another wedding in a week and a half. I'm not going to lie....all I can do lately is think about weddings. TEN's sister and I had an in depth conversation about wedding favors just the other day. It's starting to stress me out.....

T

Westie Wednesday

2011-10-12T16:23:00.002-04:00

I just realized that it's Westie Wednesday! Boy, Louis sure would be perturbed if I forgot to tell you about him.

I'm a bit behind, but I will tell you that 2 weekends ago we took Louis to Dogtoberfest. It is just what it sounds like. A huge festival for dogs, with spa services...tasty treats...and even the PawCasso Studio if your pup wants to paint. I kid you not.

We resisted the urge to let Louis demonstrate his artistic ability, but we did sit for a portrait. Well, a caricature really. What do you think??

Then, it was off to Big City, VA to help my mother. While I was gone, Louis stayed with TEN. That's nothing new, of course, but what WAS new was that he found a muddy corner of TEN's yard and tried to give himself a bath. He was covered in mud, and S-T-I-N-K-Y! TEN gave him a bath, but didn't have a dryer or brush. I so wish I could share the picture he sent me, but alas...the blackberry isn't cooperating.

The poor little guy has been shuffled around so much these 2 weeks, he hasn't a clue what's going on :( And then...last night when I got home, his Halloween Costume had arrived. So........well......of course I wanted him to try it on.

Let's just say it didn't go very well. At all. And I can't imagine why? It's the cutest costume. Here, have a peek:

So that's what Louis has been up to. He's really happy to have his mummy home, and he's going to daycare tomorrow...so the week is really looking up :)

Westie Licks,

T & Louis