CincyDee

12 Healthy Habits- February: Get Moving!

2012-02-02T09:20:00.002-05:00

okay y'all..

Now that you are all veggie and fruit masters, it be time to add a new habit.

Work it out, girl!

Cooking Light wants you to work out with me

(They told me)

3 times a week.

30 minutes each time

Please make a note to yo self:

Total time is what matters.

Just get in an hour and a half each week and you be good.

Here is your link for tips and tricks

Click here to be skinny

What's your plan?

Mine is to find a class that I really like, and then spend the remaining time doing cardio.

Seems like a plan.

Best of luck...

You could get in peak physical condition:

Beers around the world: A DJ Paul Wall Production

2012-01-17T21:06:00.000-05:00

This was a dumb idea.

That, obviously, is why it was awesome.

Paul drank 10 beers from around the world (some up to 15% or so) in about 3 hours.

Now, I drank some too. Interspersed with a delicacy known as "Natural Light"

So I don't exactly remember which is which.

But the Weinhenstephaner was our fave.

Observe.

Other than the name... absolutely no English on this label.

No idea what it was.

Paul was nervous about this one.

Best!

Oopsie whoopsie.

Please note: He got sick the next day.

Double oopsie whoopsie

Dishes with Dee: One Dish Chicken and Veggie Bake

2012-01-05T12:54:00.000-05:00

Okay Babies...

How is everyone doing on their veggie challenge?!

I think I am doing pretty well!

The hardest part about eating healthy is breaking the habit of eating junk.

...I really want spinach artichoke dip.

Does that count at a veggie???

Off topic.

Back on.

My Green B.E.A.N veggies that I wrote about earlier this week have been bomb so far.

Er-ry thang be fresh.

The colors are awesome, and it is all way more flavorful than the regular stuff I get at the store.

While I know I'll have to go to the store every now and again, I'm an official groupie of Green B.E.A.N.

So I used some of the root vegetables that came in my bin to make a chicken and veggie bake.

So easy.

Here's what ya need:

Boneless skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and thawed.

Assorted veggies:

Potato (Used my G.B. white ones)

Carrots (Almost the whole bunch!)

Onion (Went ahead and used a red one from the bin)

Celery (On hand)

Plenty of garlic- I use whole cloves throughout.

And here's what ya do:

Sprinkle chicken with salt, pepper. poultry seasoning, whatevs.

Toss the chick and all those veggies (just cut 'em up!) into a 9 x 13.

Drizzle in EVOO

Toss to coat all of the ingredients plus the bottom of the pan.

Salt n Pep it up.

Bake.

on 400

for 45 to an hour

Allow your chickie to stand before you cut it open, trust in the juice, girl.

Delish.

Easy.

Healthy (if you don't use a gallon of EVOO of course)

Veggie out....

Green B.E.A.N. Delivery: And a Discount Fo' You!

2012-01-05T10:13:00.000-05:00

Hay gurl, I know you love a little discount here and there...

..I have got one for you.

Green B.E.A.N. Delivery

is a company that delivers organic produce and natural groceries

RIGHT. TO. YOUR. DOOR.

Do you hate going out in the snow?

Do you live downtown and so going to the grocery store is this big, giant production?

Does you just love organic thangs?

Are you sick of the little kids in Kroghetto picking up an apple, taking a bite, and then putting it back?! (True, story, I watched this happen once during my Clifton years)

Then it's Green B.E.A.N. to the rescue!

Check it:

You can choose from a variety of assorted bin sizes, and frequency of delivery (once a week or every other week).

Then.....

Customize! Add local groceries

Bread!

Chicken!

Cheese!

BACON!

And they send it all right to you.

(Fine print: minimum order of $35)

So when my new homies contacted me to review this service, I thought "d.u.h."

All I had to do was go online, select the product(s) I wanted and when I wanted to start delivery, and voila!

A few days later I received an invoice that told me what to expect in my bin. (It is different every time, as Green B.E.A.N. tries to select the best produce at the time)

Here's what I got:

It is HUGE!!!

Contents, yo.

Romaine in the membrane

Rainbow Chard. I have never cooked with this! I'm pretty excited, and I found an awesome hash to make Saturday morning.

5 apples

Orange you glad you ordered from Green B.E.A.N?

Grape fruit

Green bean machine.

2 Freakin' pounds of potatoes (red and white)

Red onions

Carrots (wish I got more)

Broccoli

I have all kinds of plans for my new little babies, so be looking out for Green B.E.A.N recipes coming through your screen all month long!

Thanks to the Green B.E.A.N. people for giving me the opportunity to review this service. You have totes gained a new customer in me. Can't wait to see what I get in my next bin!

And for those of you who think this is right up your alley..

YOU GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER

When you sign up, just enter the promotion code:

CDsrAB

This will get you 50 % off your first produce bin.

(Not on other groceries though)

Now LISTEN UP procrastinators! You only have 7 days to sign up, so get on it.

For new and reactivating members, ya'll!

This came at such an awesome time too, since January's Healthy Habits assignment is

Eat More Veggies!

Good luck nerds and enjoy the B.E.A.N.

12 Healthy Habits-January: Veggie Up!

2012-01-04T12:18:00.000-05:00

Okay ya'll

Month One:

Veggie Up!

Eat at least three servings of fruits and veggies a day.

What is your game plan?

Mine is this:

Snack

Meal.

2 snacks during the day should be a fruit or a veggie:

Sliced peppers,

Celery,

An apple, (counts for 2 servings!)

Some frozen berries.

Anything, as long as I have a fruit or vegetable for my snack rather than chips, or crackers, or something.

Meal.

With dinner every night I will prepare a vegetable.

Be looking for side dish recipes to help you along the way, I'll be sure to post plenty!

Any tips or tricks you plan to use to get you into this habit?

Cooking Light's 12 Healthy Habits

2012-01-04T11:38:00.000-05:00

I can be pretty lazy.

I don't drink enough water.

I eat too much junk.

Drink too much.

Stay up too late.

Basically I'm a hot mess walking around like I've got my shit together. So this year, I decided to actually do something about it.

So, for my New Year's resolution I will be doing

Cooking Lights: 12 Healthy Habits

Basically its a "get- your-life-on-track-one healthy-habit-at-a-time" guide.

Each month you are given a new task to accomplish.

The habits accumulate so by December I will consistently be doing 12 things better than I was in 2011.

(here's hoping)

It is definitely going to be a challenge, but my darling friend Lora and I are doing it together.

A support system will be vital when I want to sleep in rather than get up and make breakfast, or when I want to order the Bacon Cheeseburger with fries instead of the Salmon with steamed veggies.

I think you should totes join in.

Ain't too late to choose a resolution.

So read up on what you'll be expected to do throughout the year and jump on board!

Mid-Week Meows featuring: Mulligan

2012-01-04T09:43:00.002-05:00

Dishes with Dee: Lemony Shrimp Scampi and Zesty Garlic Bread

2011-12-29T11:49:00.002-05:00

I wish there was an exact word to describe the sound of garlic sizzling in oil.

Tttssszzzzz....

Nah.

ssssssssttt

Wrong.

Well, if you can come up with the perfect word, you are obviously my top reader, and favorite person in the world.

When I am having a freaking awful day, all I want to do is stand in my kitchen, pour a glass of wine, get out my knives and get to work.

Actually, the same goes for when I'm having the best day ever.

Ain't nothing as relaxing to me.

I wanted:

Shrimp

Citrus

Pasta

Garlic

Enter

Cesar salads with Parmesan crisps

Lemony Shrimp Scampi Linguine

and Zesty Garlic Bread with homemade garlic butter.

Duuudddeee.

YUM.
This is probably a go-to thing I'll make anytime we're in the mood for pasta. Although, I'd love to come up with a way to add some veggies. (Asparagus? Roasted tomatoes? Spinach?)

Lemony Shrimp Scampi:

Here's what ya need:

EVOO

2 Tablespoons of butter

Garlic (4-6 cloves)

2 lemons- zested and juiced

1/4 an onion- chopped or diced

1 small bunch parsley -coarsely chopped

3/4 a pound of medium shrimp- it will be 20-25 skrimps- peeled. Reserve shells for a shrimp stock.

3/4 pound of linguine

Salt, Pepper, crushed red pepper

Freshly shredded Parmesan to pass.

And here's what ya do:

In a medium bowl combine the garlic, zest and juice of one lemon, EVOO, red pepper flakes (use about a teaspoon), salt, pepper, and shrimp. Mix to coat and set aside.

And now you gots ta make some stock:

Small pot. Medium heat. Shrimp shells and onion. Put water in the pot until just covered and make it bubble. The reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Strain out shells and onion. Boom. You'll need about a cup of this later.

Cook Pasta to just shy of al dente. (2 minutes less than on package) When you drain, keep 11/2 cup of the starchy water (This is used later to help the sauce come together) Shock pasta with cold water to halt cooking.

Now the real fun begins:

Heat a skillet over high heat.

Add the shrimp (not with all the marinade) and cook about 3 minutes until the start to go pinky. Now take the shrimps back out!

Add the rest of the marinade and let it heat up a few minutes.

Then add 1 cup of shrimp stock you made earlier, and the 1/2 cup of pasta water you saved.

Simmer until sauce is reduced by half.

Add the remaining lemon juice and zest, butter, and parsley.

Sitr!

Season.

TASTE!

Add the shrimp back in and add pasta.

Toss to combine.

POOF!

For the Garlic Bread:

Here's what ya need:

Fresh Italian bread- halved lengthwise.

1 head (yes, the whole thing) of garlic- UNpeeled.

1 tablespoon EVOO

1 cup of butter, softened

2 tablespoons of minced parsley

salt, pepper

And here's what ya do:

Preheat oven to 425

Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with EVOO, wrap loosely in foil (be sure your edges are sealed.

Bake 30 minutes, then cool.

Once cool, squeeze the garlic into a medium bowl. (Hey! Watch out- shit be sticky!)

Add butter, parsley, salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Spread that buttery goodness all over the bread and broil, set 5 1/2 inches from heat.

Do this with the door slightly open for about 2-3 minutes.

Cut into slices and serve.

Cesar Salad:

The only thing you need to know about is the Parmesan crisps.

Everything else was store bought

(Don't tell)

Crisps:

Small non-stick pan

Medium low heat.

Add slices of cheese.

It melts and bubbles.

It will start to turn golden.

Turn off the heat and let it cool in the pan.

Remove to paper towel for excess liquid to drain.

Break up into pieces and top your salad.

Finished Pasta:

Both recipes from Food Network:

Pasta

Bread

Mid-Week Meows featuring: The Watchful Eye

2011-12-29T06:44:00.002-05:00

Just making sure I don't mess up dinner...

Don't be such a Botch face...

2011-12-28T21:16:00.001-05:00

Two posts in one day. Ain't you lucky??

I just gots to share this article.

Read. Learn. Become a better cook.

Then come back and thank me :)

Oopsie Woopsie: Common cooking mistakes.

Read this. You will be so glad.

New Years Eve

2011-12-16T12:07:00.000-05:00

Whoa girl, NYE done crept up on me this year.

What the fack are you wearing?!

Here are some things I love.

Dolce & Gabbana...

$1107

Sorry wallet.

Yum.

$308

Way better to your cash money.

$88

$350

$198

$78

Go forth, and be hot.

And bring in 2012 with a ton of style, and maybe a little pinch of class (good luck)

Dishes with Dee: Fried Ravioli

2011-12-14T21:39:00.000-05:00

If you don't love Italian foods, cheese and anything fried

then you're not invited to my birthday party.

Or to my house anytime during football season.

Easy snack.

Huge hit.

So here's what ya need:

1 package of frozen ravioli

Italian flavored bread crumbs

plenty of vegetable oil

a few eggs- beaten

marinara and ranch for dipping.

And here's what ya do:

Bring a large pot of water to boil and cook your ravioli for about two minutes.

Drain and rinse in cold water.

Dredge each rav in egg and then in bread crumbs and set on a cookie sheet.

Heat oil in a sauce pan.

You want to fill it about 2-3 inches deep or so. I didn't measure, so sorry charlie.

Let oil get real, real hot. You can test it by dropping in some bread crumbs, they should sizzle up.

Then, in batches of eight or so, fry the ravs up until they are golden. It will only be a few minutes for each batch. They will float, so be sure to turn them. Agitate the oil when you first put the ravs in so that they don't stick together.

Remove to paper towels to drain.

Since I was doing these in batches, I put them in the oven, set on its lowest temperature to stay warm while other batches cooked.

Serve with warm marinara and ranch.

Also do some spicy ranch if you is into it.

Mid-Week Meows featuring: The Beg Baby

2011-12-14T21:05:00.000-05:00

This is what I get in my kitchen whenever I'm cooking with turkey...

....and chicken...

...and shrimp.

Piggy

Dishes with Dee: Blackened Tilapia Sandwiches

2011-12-14T16:57:00.005-05:00

This is like a lazy day recipe.

There is hardly anything involved.

But hey, I am real person after all, some days I just want to whip up something quick.

Plus we had some bread that I needed to use.

So here's what ya need:

Bread: I had some rolls of bakery style sesame buns. Halve it length wise. Done.

Lettuce (I used green leaf)

Tomato- some slices

Onion (Red)- some slices

Cilantro Lime mayo (Mix cilantro, lime juice and mayo- duh.)

Tilapia (1 per sandwich)

Blackened seasoning

Oil

And here's what ya do:

Dredge tilapia in blackened seasoning and let sit in your fridge for 15 minutes.

Heat oil in pan and cook tilapia until it flakes nicely (About 3 minutes on each side.)

While those are cooking, throw a little butter on your bread and broil on high, about 3-5 minutes or until golden and toasty.

Then, make a sandwich!

Just layer all that shit:

Bottom bread

Tilapia

Lettuce

Tomato

Onion

Mayo

Top bread.

Boom.

I served this with sweet potato fries and coleslaw.

Yum

Dishes with Dee: Cream of Asparagus and Seafood Soup

2011-12-07T17:50:00.001-05:00

My dad makes these really amazing soups.

He can pull anything out of the fridge and turn it into a Sunday afternoon meal.

So I've been giving it a try too.

So here's what ya need:

Drizzle of EVOO

1 bundle of asparagus- cut to 1 in. thick. Reserve the tough ends- you can add them to the soup to flavor.

A package of baby bellas- sliced.

About 1/2 an onion- chopped.

1 container of crab meat (I buy the lump crab--but be warned.. it's $14.99. There are two other options that are less expensive, but I make this so rarely that I like to go all out.) drained and picked over to ensure all shells are removed.

1 package of bay scallops.

1 can of cream of asparagus soup.

The same amount of water and milk (I just fill the can)

Maybe some garlic.

Season with paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

And here's what ya do:

Drizzle oil in a large pot and heat on medium high.

Add onions and garlic and let them sweat for a few minutes.

Add soup, milk, water, and ends of asparagus. SEASON IT! Heat for a few minutes on medium high and then reduce heat.

Next, add asparagus, mushrooms, scallops, and crab. SEASON AGAIN!

Oh, I just noticed from the photo that I added crushed red pepper too.

Let this cook until scallops are opaque.

EAT!

U-G-L-Y

2011-12-06T22:17:00.001-05:00

You ain't got no alibi...

Oh wait, yes you do.

An ugly sweater party.

Guess looking like that isn't a crime.

Jeff and I are on our 2nd year hosting an ugly sweater party.

And I plan to look

h-i-d-e-o-u-s.

woof.

flamingo bffs

snow-man-you-didn't.

blech.

The Grub: Northstar

2011-12-06T21:41:00.001-05:00

Oh Hayyy Columbus!

BRING NORTHSTAR TO CINCINNATI!!!!!

umm...website.

Every time I go visit my lovely younger sister at OSU, Northstar is a must.

They designed everything down to the take out containers with the well being of the environment in mind

(Go Earth!)

Everythang be local, organic, and oh-so good

(#ShopLocal!)

I mean this when I say: Everything is good.

Everything.

My favorite is the Sweet Potato and Turkey Hash.

This is the shooting star. Orange, organic carrot, lemon and ginger. Yum.

My meal: I opted for the classic egg sandwich. The buttermilk biscuit it so amazing. Melt in your mouth buttery goodness of love. Oh yeah, and it has eggs, bacon, and white cheddar. Also all supa good.

Oh the hash!! So amazing there are no other words.

Whomp: Hello cloud nine pancakes! I don't generally like sweets for breakfast, but they get rave reviews.

Nom.

'Tis the Season...

2011-11-29T21:11:00.001-05:00

...To get your drank on.

Maybe your family drives you nuts, maybe you're friends with a bunch of alcoholics, or maybe you just know how to have a good time.

Whatever your reason, this is the season.

The more drinks, the merrier!

How about you try:

Chocolate Covered Candy Cane Martinis.

Last year we made these and I have to say:

I have some changes to make.

But after playing around with it, I think I have it now.

2 oz. Vodka

1 oz. Dove Chocolate Discoveries Martini Mix (Last year I used creme de cocoa or chocolate liqueur. Scratch that and go with Dove)

1 oz. Peppermint Schnapps

1 oz. original sweetened cream

some chocolate syrup if so desired. (I would recommend it).

Shake with ice and pour into martini glass.

Garnish with powdered cocoa around the rim (optional) and a mini candy cane.

They looked nice, but we had to suffer through them last year.

This year will be better!

Happy drinking, fools.

Mid-Week Meows featuring: 2 best friends

2011-11-29T20:54:00.001-05:00

Jaxson and Jeff.

Sitting in a tree.

Dishes with Dee: Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup

2011-11-29T20:29:00.001-05:00

Jeff's mom cooks an insane amount of food.

She sent us home with a half a turkey. Literally, chop-it-down-the-breast-bone half a turkey.

As a result, we have tons of it.

(Obviously)

So I made turkey noodle soup.

First you'll want to strip the carcass and make some stock.

(Don't know how? Shoot, guess I'll tell you.)

Throw all the turkey crap in a pot. Some people just do the bones, but I do everything. Extra meat, bones, skin, you name it. Fill the pot with water until carcass is almost covered. Add some spices, garlic, thyme, sage, salt pepper etc. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer on low for as long as you have. I did about an hour and a half. The chicken stock I made last week went for 2 hours, your call. BOOM! You got stock!)

Here's what ya need:

About 1/2 an onion, chopped

3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced.

3-4 celery stalks, thinly sliced (1/2 an inch or smaller)

shredded leftover turkey

your stock

chicken broth (I used the 3lb container)

2 cups egg noodles, cooked to just shy of al dente (rinse with cold water after cooking to prevent sticking and set aside)

Salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, garlic powder,-- whatever you freakin' want it to taste like, add that.

And here's what ya do:

Combine stock and chicken broth.

Heat to almost boiling and add onion. Let it cook until onions are just about transparent.

Add carrots and celery and let cook until the veggies are almost soft.

(Meh, 15-25 minutes?)

Season along the way.

Add turkey and noodles.

Let everything get hot.

EAT!

And EAT A SECOND BOWL!

Mid-Week Meows featuring: Cashmere

2011-11-29T12:42:00.001-05:00

Gabbana's name is basically Mama.

It's all we call her.

She feels like cashmere.

She be doin' work.

2011-11-29T12:10:00.001-05:00

Headed to a ton of holiday parties this year?

Me too.

So how, oh how will you thank your hostess?

I wouldn't say hostess gifts are a "must" necessarily, but when you think about all the work this chick is doing to get her house ready for a party, all the food and drink prep, and cleaning up after your drunk ass (most likely) she probably deserves a little som'in, som'in.

(Sorry fellas, but we know you are not the one putting together center pieces or icing the gingerbread cookies.)

Ya heard?

There are plenty of ideas that you can come up with, and here is a favorite of mine:

Chocolate Chip Cookies in a Jar

These are so easy.

They take about 15 minutes total to put together.

They look fancier than they actually are.

You likely have most of the ingredients already in your pantry.

Equals a friend to your wallet.

So here's what ya need:

A 1-quart wide-mouth mason jar: Michael's ($A buck.99 yo)

1 3/4 c. all purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon of baking soda

3/4 teaspoon of salt

1 1/2 c of chocolate chips (Nestle semi-sweets)

3/4 c PACKED brown sugar

1/2 c granulated sugar.

A small square of fabric (JoAnn's 0.99 cent)

Ribbon

Card stock

markers

hole punch

(If you don't have the above items you can find them at a craft store. But then again, its likely you aren't opting for a homemade hostess gift if you ain't gots these)

And here's what ya do:

In a small bowl mix together flour, baking soda, and salt. Transfer to jar.

Layer the rest of the ingredients in order, packing in between layers.

Put your fabric on the top of the lid and screw the ring on.

Attach instructions card.

Here is what ya card should say:

Preheat oven to 375.

Beat 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) softened butter or margarine, 1 large egg, and 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract together in a large bowl until blended.

Add cookie mix, mix well to combine, breaking up any clumps.

Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheet.

Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove from oven and allow to cool on sheets for 2 minutes.

Transfer to cooling rack to cool completely.

Now, go thank your hostess, 'cause you know she tha mostess.

The Boys Get Fat, a.k.a Food Challenge!

2011-11-28T22:40:00.001-05:00

Grotesquely over weight people are my total fetish

so Jeff is going to become one.

JK.

About both things.

But he does want to complete a food challenge.

So off the Bard's Burgers in Convington we went.

10 patties

Cheese in between.

Stacked on a buttered bun.

A side of fries.

The whole thing is about 6 lbs or something.

You have an hour.

Brave men going into battle.

Shove that down your gullet.

The boys started off strong.

Paul downed like 4 patties in the first 10 minutes.

Look at that determination!

So close!!

Sadly, these guys had to admit defeat this time.

Note: little white flags.

The final score:

Paul: Finished 7 patties, all his bun, and all his fries.

Jeff: Finished 6 patties, half his bun, and most of his fries.

Some other day gents.

Link for more food challenges.

The Grub: La Poste

2011-11-28T22:23:00.001-05:00

Have you ever had a meal so good that you literally dream about it?

Like, months later.

Enter La Poste.

Best ever.

The menu is exciting.

Attention to organic.

Always awesome.

This Cesar salad would be part of my last meal in prison.

Mushroom Ravioli.

Heaven.

I don't have any more than this to say. I never take enough pictures because I'm too busy stuffing my face.

Go there.

Bring your big wallet.

Stuff your face.

The Forgotten

2011-11-19T15:24:00.001-05:00

Jeff and I totes believe that Thanksgiving is the forgotten holiday.

This makes us sad.

So its really awesome that our friends Sara and Mick host a friends Thanksgiving dinner every year.

(2 years running)

Last year there were 6 of us--this year, there were 14.

Super cute table

Pretty friends

Mick and Jason's amazing Cajun injected deep fried turkey.

Some sides.

Friends

Assembly line.

What a lucky guy....

Everyone!

Special thanks to S&M for hosting such a fun night. Especially for the guys since they went to the strip club after.

Anndddd Classy.

Use a Condom!

2011-11-17T12:53:00.001-05:00

Have you seen these yet?

HEEL CONDOMS!

They just slip over your shoe, to change up any plain pair of heels.

Shit be crazy right?!

Go here to learn more about using protection.
Thanks to the lovely Kandee Johnson for posting about them.

What do you think of these little contraptions? I like the idea, but I would probably need to try out a pair to see if they are good quality/ stay up/ don't look trashy.

Thoughts?

Gift Wrap to Make Everyone Else Oh-So Jeal.

2011-11-15T14:31:00.001-05:00

One wore kittens, one wore Rainbow Brite, and one wore the littlest of Barbie night gowns.

All smushed together in one bed, my sisters and I would giggle into the night on Christmas Eve, each trying to stay up later than the others, urging the moon toward the horizon, and expectantly looking for Santa across the sky.

On Christmas Eve night we were best friends. Setting out cookies for Santa, racing around the house to "Run, Run Rudolph" and talking about what sort of treasures would await us come 5:00 AM (Sorry Mom and Dad).

Bright and early, we would come bounding down the stairs. The smell of cinnamon rolls and coffee that was always a little stronger than usual would great us and, our eyes would hungrily take in that year's haul.

Over the years, a few things have changed with our Christmas tradition. The coffee pot got larger, the alarm clocks go off later, and the wrapping has gotten extraordinarily beautiful. My older sister has a knack for out doing herself with wrapping each year. And this year: my God, I'm on board.

I found this great article from Martha Stewart's Christmas Workshop and I have every intention of wrapping some gifts that make people open them a little bit slower this year.

Here are a few I particularly love:

My stupid apartment kitchen: Part 1- Counter Space

2011-11-04T11:21:00.000-04:00

My kitchen is so small.

Like, Harry-Potter-used-to-live-under-the-stairs-small.

(Dork alert)

Or how about:

Like, the-size-I-bet-the-Situations-"Situation"-is-small.

I have about as much counter space as Kim Kardashian has diginity.

So thanks to smitten kitchen (Seriously--read it!) I have been thinking about ways to improve my kitchen so I have more counter space and more storage space without looking like a hobbit. Or one of the people off Hoarders (most disgusting show ever).

Idea 1: Recommended by Smitten Kitchen: GET A FREAKIN' KITCHEN CART (Only she's way nicer about it)

I like these:

Actually this is more like an island. Way too huge for my ~~crawl space~~ kitchen. But I really love it.

Bed Bath and Beyond.

This is super cute. And I have white cabinets. Win! Plus the doors would mean my devil of an adventure cat couldn't get in there. He's a menace.

Crate and Barrel

Good size. But two problems: I have stemless wine glasses, so what the heck would I put up there? Jaxson (menace) would definitely wreck this.

Sur La Table

This is probably too big too, but I dig it.

Target

Okay, so this isn't a cart, but it would fit a bunch of cookbooks and bowls and other things that just sit out, and its a good size for the corner of my kitchen. Plus I love it.

cb2

Do you gots a small kitchen? What do you do about space?!

Chat about it.

Dishes with Dee: Open faced egg and salmon sammies

2011-11-01T17:22:00.000-04:00

Brunch your heart out at home.

Whats up with the whats up?

I made up an awesome open faced sammie a few weeks ago.

I don't mean to toot my own horn,

but it was f*cking awesome.

'Scuse the French.

If you read regularly, you know that I have been on a brunch hunt (it's not a very aggressive, hunt. More like a lazy meandering) but non the less, I am after brunch.

For my reasons why, you can check out this post.

But first, keep reading the rest of this post so you can learnt how to make this totally rad sammie.

So here's what ya need:

1 bag french fingerling potatoes

Bagel thins or the like (I used Thomas's)

1 package smoked salmon

cream cheese

arugula (just a few handfuls will do)

like 1/4 a red onion- thinly sliced.

1 tomato- sliced

eggs (one for each sam)

garlic

chili powder

salt n pep (I used garlic sea salt and garlic peppercorns)

And here's what ya do:

1. Clean and quarter your taters length wise. (you can see from the photo that some of them I only halved, or even kept whole depending on the size. If you keep any whole, be sure to poke a little hole so they cook at the same speed as your cut up ones)

2. Drizzle potatoes with EVOO or your favorite oil, roughly chop some garlic and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a generous amount of chili powder (you judge). Toss to coat.

3. Spread out on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake on 425 for approx. 30 minutes. Agitate at about 15 minutes. (If you are after brown crispiness, turn on your broiler for the last 5 minutes)

4. Toast bagel thins

5. Smother with cream cheese

6. Layer on the rest of your ingredients. I did: salmon, arugula, red onion, tomato.

7. Cook eggs in a non stick skillet- sunny side up.

8.Top your sammies with egg. And serve with a side of your roasted chili potatoes.

**Option- sprinkle these with a little balsamic vinegar. I meant to, but forgot! It will be an explosion of goodness in yo mouth.

Bam. Enjoy.

Clean your plate good.

The Haps: Its Fall. (d.u.h)

2011-10-28T15:33:00.001-04:00

I'm so domestic.

Its gross.

I even made a wreath.

1. Go to Michael's or other crafty place.

2. Buy wooden wreath, and some fake flowers, and a glue gun.

3. Assemble in layers. I did the leaves first and then added on the other stuff on top of that.

Other fall things:

Once again, Jeff and I went to Neltner's Farm and they have definitely revamped from when I posted about them last year.

They are so exclusive that they charge a cover now ($5). But it includes the "corn maze", a wagon ride, face painting (not suitable for adults--sorry), and PETTING ZOO! Score!

Baby Chicks (So cute!)

The Goat.

Mini goat!

We found where we are getting our Cinco De Mayo donkeys!

Lindsay Lohan.

Little chick head poking out from mom chicken.

Best pumpkins ever. (ours, obvi)

PONY RIDE!

Big man on Campus

Yeah this little peanut almost got his finger pecked off by mama chicken. Whoops.

Us.

Them.

Carvin' like Marvin gurl:

I wish this wasn't blurry

What are you up to this fall? Is it as awesome?

You are reading my blog, so probably.

Dishes with Dee: Turkey Meatloaf- in ya face!

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

Meatloaf= comfort food.

I had never made meatloaf before (can we say pathetic?)

My mom makes some awesome turkey meatloaf (recipe from food network) and on one of the colder days this month I made some for these two people:

...aaannnnddd

Jealous.

So here's what ya need:

3/4 Cup quick cooking oats

1/2 cup milk- recipe calls for skim, I used 2%

1 medium white onion- peeled

2 pounds ground turkey

1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper

2 eggs, beaten

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1/4 c. Ketchup

1 8 oz. can of tomato sauce (Kroger brand)

salt and pepper

And here's what ya do:

Preheat oven to 350 F

In a small bowl mix together oats and milk

Slice 1/4 of the onion into very thin pieces and set aside. Chop the rest.

Combine turkey, oat mixture, pepper, onion (chopped), eggs, Worcestershire, ketchup, salt and pepper in a large bowl.

In a 9 x 13 in. baking pan, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape. Should be about 5 in. wide and 2.5 in tall. Top with tomato sauce and lay out the sliced onions.

Bake until 160 F-- about 1 hour. Remove and let stand about 10-15 minutes before slicing.

I served this with smashed potatoes and asparagus. Perfect side shows. If you don't know how to make smashed potatoes, then what are you doing in a kitchen anyway?

Summary:

Cut up taters and put them in a sauce pot.

Add water until potatoes are just covered.

Bring water to a boil over medium-high heat.

Cook until tender.

(Usually 20 or so minutes-- ya fork should easily pierce your largest hunk of spud)

Drain.

Add about 1/4 c warm milk or cream, tons and tons of garlic, salt and pepper and maybe a few pats of butter.

Smash 'em

Asparagus:

EVOO, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Trim the ends of the 'gus.

Cook on medium-low heat until tender.

Plate it and eat it.

Go and be comfortable.

The Haps: Mainstay Rock Bar

2011-10-19T10:01:00.000-04:00

I gotta give a shout out to my friendly neighborhood bar: Mainstay Rock Bar.

Reasons why they kick ass:

1. They are one block from 4nP. As a result, every cool person in my building goes there. A lot. Like, 5 nights a week.

2. On Bengals game days (or at least the ones that make it on TV) they have FREE CHIKIN WANGS! Like 4 or 5 different sauces to choose from. And they're BOMB.

3. Mugs:

4. People there wear shoes like this:

5. The prices are great. I bought like a million shots and my tab was half what I thought it would be.

6. They serve HUGE beers. No 16 oz bottles here, buddy.

7. They recently opened an upstairs area that rocks. It has the exact downtown lounge vibe you would expect, couches and high tables, floor to ceiling windows and awesome art work.

So go to Mainstay. Get a huge ass beer, and hang out with all the cool people.

No need to thank me.

Dishes with Dee: Its Freakin' Greek Dip, Megan!

2011-10-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

After a year or so of the blog I will finally post my Greek dip recipe...

Megan can stop begging now.
Betch.

Greek dip is awesome for parties.
Or for snacking,
or for Tuesdays....

So here's what ya need:

1 avocado- peeled, pitted, and chopped

2 roma tomatoes- seeded and chopped

-1/2 c. red onion- chopped

1/2 small can of chopped olives (Kroger brand is perfect)

4 oz. feta cheese

1 tbsp EVOO

1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar.

2-3 cloves of garlic- minced (Recipe actually calls for only 1, but you know me)

chopped oregano and parsley (however much you want-- I do about 1-2 tbsp of each)

And here's what ya do:

1. Combine tomato, avo, onion, and olives in a medium bowl and mix.

2. In a small dish, stir together EVOO and vinegar. Pour over avo mixture.

3. Add garlic, feta, and herbs (I add a little salt and pepper too) Mix all ingredients.

Pop it in the 'fridge until you need it. (Covered obviously)

Serve with tortilla chips. Scoops dood.

This recipe is so easy anyone can make it. The way I chop everything (big pieces) this is more like a salsa than a dip. My sister chops everything very finely so its more dip-like. Either way is good, so pick your poison.

Shout out to my mutha for the recipe.

The Haps: Hammertime Hayride

2011-10-11T08:31:00.000-04:00

This year marked the first annual (hopefully) Hammertime Hayride. Summary: Dress like a red neck, go to a pumpkin patch, drink beer and spiked cider, debauchery ensues.

The kind folks at Sunrock Farm were nice enough to allow 40 of my closest friends to rent out their farm for the evening. It was pretty awesome. They had several fires set up, plenty of space, and hayrides. It was all and all a great time for all.

As if we needed an excuse to go out to the sticks, drink keg beer, and generally act like idiots.

Try not to be too jealous of this amazing life style.

Not everyone can be this awesome.

But I bet you are. (Awesome-- and maybe jealous too)

Dishes with Dee: Blackened Tilapia Baja Tacos

2011-09-30T09:38:00.000-04:00

With fall quickly approaching, I wanted to get in one more fresh summertime meal.

Enter: Blackened Tilapia Baja Tacos.

Jeff and I eat a lot of seafood. Our Fish to Chicken ratio is probably 8:3.

Flipping through my Cooking Light magazine last month, they had a segment on "Eat more fish this month!" Which is what inspired me to make these.

So here's what ya need:

1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (Obviously I used more)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
1 cup thinly sliced white onion
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper (Cayenne)
4 (6-ounce) tilapia fillets
1 tablespoon canola oil
8 (6-inch) corn tortilla
1/2 ripe peeled avocado, thinly sliced

Additional: (I added a corn and tomato salsa for extra flavor)
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
1 cup tomato, chopped
1/2 cup onion chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoons cilantro, coarsely chopped.

And here's what ya do:

1. Combine the paprika, brown sugar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, cumin, and cayenne in a shallow dish. Dredge the fish through the mixture and put in the refrigerator to set for about 25-20 minutes.

2. Heat a dash of oil in a pan. Add corn and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Stirring occasionally, leave on heat until they begin to brown. I like them to have a little crisp, so I let these suckers go while I made the mixture for the onion.

3. The recipe on cooking light calls for a food processor for the next step, but I don't own one, so I ignored it and just combined the ingredients:

Combine sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeno in a medium bowl and stir. Then add the onion to the "sauce" and set aside.

Yo corn is probably done! And take those swimmers out of the fridge! You don't want them to be cold when you cook them.

4. Combine corn, tomato, chopped onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Mix loosely to get this:

5. Heat oil in a large skillet. Add fish and cook until done. About 3 minutes on each side.

6. Warm tortillas according to package directions.

** Note: Ya gots ta heat the tortillas up thoroughly. Corn tortillas tend to be a bit meal-y if you leave them too cool.

7. Divide up all the ingredients and build ya self a taco, girl!

These were delish. And a lot more filling than I expected.

Go make some!

P.S. I know a few of you don't like fish. I bet you could make these just as easily with chicken.

Pound out the chicken to about 1 inch thickness and then season with the same stuff, cook in a skillet and then shred it.

But I still think if you don't like fish its because you haven't had it since mommy made you take "two more bites" before you could get down from the table all those years ago.

Suck it up and try it.

CLICK HERE for the real recipe from Cooking Light

The Haps: Hudepohl 14K Brewery Run

2011-09-29T11:15:00.003-04:00

Running for booze?

Absolutely.

I mean, not me. I would die after about three blocks. But-- Hell Yeah!-- to those who ran it.

Pretty bad ass

Heaven.

Puke. No offense Hoist, but you seriously suck.

Well, I agree with at least half of this sign.

Yum. x4. Dojo is the best.

This was a ton of fun. Especially since I wen with my sisters and was drinking before 10 AM.

Oops.

(Not)

Obsessed.

2011-09-28T10:50:00.000-04:00

Living downtown is awesome.

My teeny tiny old ass kitchen is not.

I've been just day dreaming about a bad ass kitchen.

Here's some shit I love.

Have you checked out The Smitten Kitchen?! This is one awesome blog.

It's an all out recipe, how-to, advice, all the shit you could ever want blog.

GO HERE

To read an awesome post about small kitchens.

Then spend the next 4 hours reading the other posts like I did.

Sorry about the hit your productivity is going to take today.

Wait, no I'm not.

P.S. There will be a smitten kitchen cook book coming out hopefully in 2012. Snap.

How friggin' cute are these measuring cups from Anthropologie?

Wanna buy them? CLICK HERE

I'm in love with this kitchen Every Day with Rachael Ray made over

<3 Pier 1

My sister's kitchen:

Lucky bitch. Oh, here's her BLOG

I hope Heaven looks like the inside of Sur La Table

I'm 100% obsessed with everything in that place: Especially these aprons:

Particularly the striped one. Nom.

Cute mixer.

Any and all of these. Any and all colors. Supa love the blue

And these from Williams-Sonoma

Buy 'em

I'm totes a Roy G Biv girl in the kitchen. Obvi.

I would trade my left foot to have this Martha Stewart Living kitchen

And I found this photo on My Favorite and My Best.

Talk about a blog you should read. I love her.

So now you can spend the rest of the day thinking about how much your kitchen sucks compared to these. Or how badly you now need those measuring cups.

Unless your kitchen doesn't suck, then screw you.

The Haps: The Miazgas!

2011-09-13T11:29:00.000-04:00

Two of my wonderful friends tied the freakin' knot this weekend!

I couldn't be happier for these two fools.

They're perfect for each other.

Weddings are awesome. Especially ones with C-paw grooms cakes and late night skyline and larosa's. They sure do know the way to this girl's heart.

Other folks

What an awesome time, and what an awesome couple!

I want to post a photo from their photographer, but somethin' ain't right.

http://www.katefoxbowerphotography.com/

Go here :) Their preview photos are adorable.

Here's to the "Babes"

Mid-Week Meows featuring: #CrazyCatLady

2011-09-13T08:41:00.000-04:00

Dishes with Dee: 20 Minute Stir Fry

2011-09-12T21:53:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't love a little Asian Persuasion?

Let's talk about how easy stir fry is to whip up.

Real f'ing easy.

Here's what ya need:

-EVOO (3 turns of the pan)

-1 pound of whatever meat tickles your fancy. (I used shrimp--big surprise!)

-Assorted veggies--Whatever you like, however much you feel like-chopped (I used bell peppers-red, orange, and yellow, white onion, broccoli, snap peas, shitake mushrooms-splurge at $9.99/lb, I only bought about 1/5 a lb though)- carrots, and red cabbage

-Your fave stir fry sauce- I used House of Tsang Classic Stir-Fry Sauce

-A few cloves of garlic

-Green onion

-Bean sprouts

-Random spices- salt, pepper, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, ground ginger

-Sesame seeds

A grain to pair it with- I used white rice

Optional- Hot Chili Sauce or paste (I like Annie Chun's Go.Chu.Jang Korean Sweet and Spicy-- find it in the organic section)

And here's what ya do:

-Marinate your meat in whatever sauce you deem appropriate. (I used the chili paste)

Let stand, covered, in the fridge for about 15 minutes.

Chop up all those veggies (I keep them in bigger chunks.)

Hit up that garlic and the green onion too.

In a wok, heat oil until very hot over medium-high heat, add garlic and shrimp and let cook about two minutes

Add veggies

***Note: A lot of stir fry recipes will tell you to add all your veggies together, but personally, I like to split them up based on how quickly they'll cook up.

First: Onions, Broccoli, Carrots, Snap Peas Etc.

Let that go about another minute, stirring a few times then add the peppers

Go another minute or so and add your mushrooms

Throughout this process add your spices as you see fit. I do a little bit after each step, but hey-- it's your world, I'm just living in it, so spice as you please.

After this cooks up for a bit add your sauce, bean sprouts, and green onion

Let it go another minute or two. You be the judge here, is everything finished already? Then take it off the stove! Need a bit longer? Go for it!

Serve over your grain (White rice here) and Enjoy!

P.S. Make enough for leftovers, you'll want them!

The great thing about stir fry is that everything is entirely up to you. The amounts of veggies, the types, the quantity of sauce, and spice, and heat. Got a favorite stir fry recipe? Let me know! :)

Peace. Love. and Asians.

Dishes with Dee: Jackie's Easy Peasy Chilly-day Chili

2011-09-07T09:25:00.001-04:00

It is cliche for fall?...

..Then I freakin' did it today.

I bought my first Pumpkin Spiced Latte of the season.

Bought a candle that smells like the leaves changing

I made Jeff's mom's awesome Chili

And I bundled up in a giant sweater.

It is perfect for a day when its 57 degrees and cloudy. In truth, I love this weather. Last fall I wrote all about it. And, I especially love making Jackie's Chili.

Why?! Because its delicious AND sooooo easy to do. You're only gonna spend about 10 minutes standing in your kitchen. Obviously I'm always in there anyway, but for those of you who think tater tots and chicken nuggets are a homemade meal, change it up for something this yummy. (AKA Katie and Megan)

PLUS:

Ain't noting better than chili on a cold day.
Duh.

So Here's What Ya Need:

1/2 c. white onion (chopped-- I usually reserve some for topping which I dice. I like to use bigger pieces in the chili, otherwise you lose them)
A few cloves of garlic (Chopped, minced, or whatever you want)
1-2 lbs of ground beef (depending on your desire for meat. In general, I use 1 lb.)
2 cans of diced tomatoes (I buy the chili ready Kroger brand stuff--it comes in chili spices!)
1 can of diced tomatoes with jalapeno. (Kroger represent)
1 medium can of pork n beans (Please note that there are 4 different freakin' can sizes of PnB, you want the 28 oz can)
Spices- Salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder and Jeff likes to add Cayenne pepper too
Optional: This time I bought a little 4 oz. can of Green Chili peppers. I've never done that before while making this chili, but I think I will from now on. It just gave it a little extra punch.
Garnish: Diced onion (as stated above), shredded cheese, sour cream, oyster crackers.

And Here's What Ya Do:
1. Over medium heat, cook the beef until just browned.

While the meat is browning, that iz a good time to chop/dice your onion and mince your garlic. And in my case, since I accidentally bought the chilies whole, I had to cut up them suckers too.

*** Note: There were probably 3 or 4 peppers in the can, I only used 1- afraid they would over power- but they didn't so feel free to use more.***

2. Once browned, transfer the beef to a crock pot.

**Note: Ain't no secret that beef is supa greasy. I would use a slatted spoon of some sort to separate the grease...like this one!**

3. Add your canned tomatoes and pork n beans

4. Add onion, garlic, and green chilies

4. Add spices and stir that shit up.

5. Allow to cook in the crock pot on high for plenty of time. About 1-2 hours. Stirring occasionally (like every 15-30 minutes)

6. Then cozy up with a blanket and enjoy!

Obviously, special shout out to Jeff's mom for the awesome recipe. I probably have changed it some over the last year on accident since I didn't write it down! We love it every time we make it!

Also, shout of the Jeff for being the photographer when I had my hands full

And shout out to my supa cool sista for the sweater. Even though you only see a sleeve.

So, boom. Go make yourself some chili. And light a fall candle.

You're Welcome.

I know UC it...

2011-09-06T14:23:00.000-04:00

AND FOOTBALL IS BACK BABY!!!

Oh!!!! OH!!!!! Some pictures of the lovely people I voluntarily hang out with.

Woops.

This weekend I went back to college. Literally.

Beer pong at a frat house on Friday.

Cats game at UC on Saturday.

House party for Labor Day on Sunday.

Couch ALL DAY Monday.

Best quote of the weekend: "Nothin' like a 26 year old pukin' at a frat house!!!" Good God.

Sorry I'm not sorry.

Brunch Your Heart Out: Annabel's

2011-09-02T10:08:00.000-04:00

Have you FREAKING been here yet?!

Gawwwdddd it's Heaven all up in your mouth.

Annabel's is located in Mt. Lookout Square. Just about right by Nectar.

Things I love:

1) This place is the cutest little trinket ever.

2) All of their ingredients are local, I seem to recall the meats coming from Kroeger and Sons in Findlay market. ( I also want to say they're organic, but I'm not positive)

3) Who doesn't love a place that uses Gruyere?!

4) Flavorful, fresh meals that are still light, so you don't get that greased up, pooched out FUPA feeling you get from eating bacon dripping in fat and eggs from under a heat lamp.

5) DESSERT

Things I would change (I can't say things I hate because I didn't hate anything):

1) Its teensy. There are only 8 or so tables so it gets kind of cramped. Also, very little waiting area.

2) No booze. Wah!

Now, you'll have to forgive me, because I went here all the way back in February for ThirtyDuo's birthday, so I don't totally remember everything we ordered.

But know this:

Damn, it was delicious.

Little Rainbow Tea Bags. Totes Cute.

Sugar in the raw! This is missing from every other restaurant in the world.

AWESOME scramble. Gruyere, mushrooms, and some other shit. So bomb. And oh snap, is those some blackberries in there?! Yeah boiiii.

Amazing quiche. Sorry I don't remember whats in it.

Whatchu got on that b-fast sammie, McDonalds?!

And finally....

Now this is remember. White chocolate orange cheesecake. Served with cream. You gotta be joking me with how good this was. I'm talking pop the button off your jeans because you can't stop eating it good.

Go.

Get some.

Now.

You can thank me later.

Type in Annabel's on google and check out all the awesome reviews. You won't be sorry. And if you are its because you don't like good food.

Dishes with Dee: Summertime Cilantro-Lime Chipotle pasta salad

2011-09-01T10:27:00.000-04:00

News Flash! I freaking LOVE Cilantro.

Any chance I get to use it, I am a happy gal.

If you don't like cilantro, you can burn your taste buds off.

Sucka.

Playing in the kitchen, I came up with this:

I totes made it up myself, so how 'bout them apples. Betch.

Here's what ya need:

Salad:
1 pkg whole grain shells
asparagus- cut to about 1 inch,
1/3 cup onion-chopped,

2doz. shrimp (seasoned with cajun seasoning),
1cup corn kernels (I used frozen),

about 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes- halved,
2(ish) tbs chopped chipotle peppers ( I used canned in ancho sauce, found in international isle-- add more if you like a lot of spice),
cilantro for garnish.

Dressing:
1/3 cup light mayo,
3 tbs light sour cream,
fresh lime juice from 1/2 lime,
1 1/2 tbs chopped cilantro
salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning to taste

And here's what ya do:
For dressing:
combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and set in refrigerator.

For salad:
Cook pasta normally, with about four minutes left, add asparagus and onion to water.
Finish cooking, drain, rinse with cool water until no longer warm, set aside.
Sauté shrimp in about 1 tbs e.v.o.o until fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Spread out defrosted corn kernels on greased pan and season with salt, pepper, and Cajun.
Broil on low for about 4-7 minutes.
Add tomatoes, chipotle peppers, corn, and shrimp to pasta, mix in dressing until fully coated.
Top with cilantro and refrigerate until cool.

Keep in mind that the whole grain pasta gives it a nut-a-licious flavor, so if you're not into nuts or you don't give a shit about healthy pasta, just use the regular stuff.

Also, feel free to be generous with the cilantro (Shocker) But seriously, with mayo and sour cream, this dressing has a "cool" flavor. Looking for more punch? Add real garlic instead of garlic powder, extra cajun seasoning, and some zest from the lime.

Boom.. bazooka Joe.

Mid-Week Meows featuring: 1 year old!

2011-08-31T09:54:00.000-04:00

My kits are a whole year old!!! Big babes!

Jaxson stays still for photos whereas Gabbana will not. I love them the same even though there are more photos of him than of her.

The Haps: Great Inland Seafood Festival

2011-08-31T09:26:00.000-04:00

Note to self: Do not wait until Sunday to go, or they will be sold out of lobsters!

I meant to go to this last year and just never made it, so I jumped at the opportunity when the rents called and said they were headed to Newport:

The crab cake was the best thing we got by far. Better than any crab cake at the Taste. Hands down fools.

Hella Seafood. Check out that imitation KRAB. Shit don't get better than that.

Oh wait, something that used shrimp. Change up!

More Shrimp and Veggies! WHOA!

Sweet tooth. Jim (Dad) wanted a deep fried twinkie-- veto, this was better.

Some fried stuff. Gator on a stick and lobster puffs I think.

Some menu

More shrimp!

Oh look!! They put coconut on it!

Here it is on a stick! Amazing!

This one came with a salad! So much variety!

So as you can see, it was a bunch of shrimp prepared different ways. I also go me some gator on a stick.

The weekend after this I went to Florida for vacation with Jeff. Guess where the seafood was better... :)

Regardless, I'll probably go back again next year. I just will have to order the shrimp.

Real note: If you go to this, you won't need to order a ton of stuff so choose wisely. EVERYTHING comes with veggies, rice, salad, pasta.. blah, blah, blah...

Website:
http://www.greatinlandseafoodfest.com/

Dishes with Dee: Creamy Mushroom and Herb Sauce with Whole Grain Pasta

2011-08-09T10:50:00.000-04:00

Well, although the name is really long, this vegetarian dish from the Rachael Ray Show is actually super easy.

Lately, I've been having a lot of trouble keeping a smile on my face. I can't seem to pinpoint what's up with my attitude, but put me over a hot stove with fresh garlic sizzling, and whatever is bothering me completely melts away. (Note: For best results add a glass (or two) of wine to this activity. Red.)

So here's what ya need:

About 3 tablespoons EVOO (Our girl Rach recommends about three turns of the pan)

2 tablespoons butter

1 pound cremini mushrooms, wiped and thinly sliced (Baby Bellas-- I used almost two packages)

2 large shallots, finely chopped (I used two small, shallots can be over powering in my opinion)

4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

About 2 tablespoons finely chopped thyme

2 sprigs rosemary, finely chopped

1 large fresh bay leaf (Scrap that-- I used basil because that's what I had)

Salt and pepper

About 2 tablespoons double-concentrated tomato paste, from a tube (I used three of some regular tomato paste from a can)

About 1/2 cup dry sherry or Marsala wine (I think Marsala is so much more "Italian" tasting)

1 cup heavy cream

A few grates nutmeg

1 pound whole wheat or whole grain pasta – long or short cuts both work with this sauce, I enjoy linguini with it

Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, a couple of handfuls plus some to pass at table (Shaved Parmesan was what I already had in the fridge)

Chopped toasted hazelnuts (Meh-- I'd say I used less than 1/4 cup)

Chopped flat-leaf parsley or watercress

And here's what ya do:

Slice up those 'shrooms

Chop up those shallots and that garlic!

Chop the herbs. Note: This may seem obvious, but you'll want to take the stems out of the equation. For the thyme and rosemary, if you grip lightly at the top and just run your thumb and forefinger down the stem the leaves fall right off! Easy-peasy!

Next, add EVOO and butter to a large pan (I actually used my wok, but my wok is more pan-like anyway). Let it heat up for a bit (I waited until the butter melted completely) over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and allow to brown. About 12-15 minutes. Note: About 7-10 minutes in, start the high heat on your salted water so you can get it boiling Another Note: Do not add salt to the shrooms yet! The salt pulls out moisture and will cause the mushrooms to brown unusually quickly and then you will have mushy mushrooms!)

Now add your shallots, garlic, herbs, salt and pepper. You want to stir them in and then allow everything to cook a few more minutes. Your mouth will be watering--I promise.

Once you can really smell the shallots and garlic going, you should add your tomato paste. Its going to be a little sticky, so be sure and let it heat up and mix in before moving on to the next step.

Add Marsala, stir.
Add heavy cream, stir.
Reduce heat and allow to simmer. Now your water should be boiling and you'll want to add the pasta. Also, now would be a good time to turn your hazelnuts on low heat to toast. Just give them a quick turn every few minutes.

Once your pasta is finished cooking, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy water and drain. Add your pasta to the mushroom sauce and stir to coat. Add some of the pasta water if things aren't looking uniform to help everything come together. I think I ended up using about 1/2 cup. Add to a bowl for serving and top with nuts and parsley. I also added some cheese and put some out on the table.

So this was amazing. The recipe actually serves 4 and it was only Jeff and I so we had a ton of leftovers. If you're one of those folks who never eats your leftovers-- trust me, cut this in half.

Here is the recipe on Rachael Ray's website! Enjoy :)

The Grub: Blue Elephant

2011-06-08T14:34:00.000-04:00

So since I know you all read my blog about as religiously as I post on it (oops) I know that you know that

Love.

Sushi.

Sadly, Blue Elephant, I do not love you.

I still posted the link to their website if you are super curious after you read my post. P.S. If you are still curious, you might also be kinda dumb. Here's why:

I have been to B.E. four times since their opening weekend in February of 2010. I firmly believe in giving places a first chance, second chance, third chance etc.

You know that saying: "Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice shame on me?" Well it should then say "Fool me a third time and I guess I'm a dumb ass fool me four times, just shoot me in the face."

Visit one:

Allison (link to her blog- obvi), her bf Chris, Jeff and I all went to B.E. for dinner on Valentine's day last year. Everything was AWESOME

The food was amazing, our waitress was funny, and the place had a great vibe.

A+

Visit two:

Since we were so impressed with our first visit that we brought the whole fam (7 of us). And here's where things went wrong:

Chris: Found a WIRE in his soup

(Not actual photo)

AND THEY STILL CHARGED US FOR IT!!!!

Soup (again): Emma (sista) ordered her soup as a 2 (medium spice) and it basically came out like this:

No bueno.

Sushi: We ordered 7 rolls. As I recall most were $14 but we ordered one that was $8. They brought us two of the $8 rolls and left off one of the $14 rolls. (They messed up our order the first time we were there but I was just so high on cloud nine that it didn't bother me-- not so much this time bro.) I could tell just by looking at our plate that is was wrong and the chick working there didn't notice? Gimme a break?

You can clearly see all the ingredients in a sushi roll, if I order something with asparagus and shrimp, I think you'd notice if it comes out with cream cheese and eel. Good lord.

Third visit:

Fairly insignificant. Jeff and I stopped for a bite and the sushi looked like this:

By this time I should have taken the hint. But I was clinging to that very first experience. I was on your side Blue Elephant! I just wanted you to be good again!

Visit Four:

The last time Jeff and I went I tried to have an open mind, but when you're spending $60 a visit and finding metal pieces in your soup, it's hard to see your soy sauce dish as half full.

Perhaps my attitude had something to do with it, but given their track record, I doubt it. The sushi falls apart as soon as it hits the soy sauce so you can't even eat it (spare me the crap that "good sushi" is supposed to be eaten with your fingers- I don't give a shit- chop sticks are the way to go )

B.E. is just all in all bad. Don't even get me started on the fact that they are Thai. Sushi. Pasta. (what the crap?!) Just don't waste your time. Head across the road to Green Papaya if you don't want to be disappointed.

Happy Eating :) I'm headed to Ichiban tonight, so I'll let you know how it goes!

haha!

Brunch Your Heart Out: First Watch

2011-04-12T11:32:00.000-04:00

If you have never been to First Watch, you must be living under a rock. With over 90 locations nation wide, its a wide spread cafe that focuses solely on breakfast, brunch, and lunch. They're open until 2:30pm daily, and call themselves "The Daytime Cafe".

My basic opinion of First Watch is "really good food, but where is the wow factor?" Its your run-of-the-mill breakfast spot. Everything is always tasty (though, if you folks serve me one more brownish avocado slice, I'm gonna lose it) and there are a lot of different flavors on the menu. I'm just looking for something with more of an edge on my brunch quest.

That being said, it is still a really great go-to spot considering they have one on 7th, so a few months ago (oops) Jeff and I had a BOGO so we had to take advantage.

I had the Eggs Benedict Florentine. Complete with tomato, spinach, and avocado. So so yummy, I won't lie, this is what I get almost every time. Its good, exactly what you would expect from a place like First Watch.

Jeff had an omelet. The Works I believe: Ham, bacon, sausage, mushrooms, onions, tomato, cheese, sour cream. Definitely loaded. He liked it, but again, we wanted to know: Where is the "wow"?

So if ever you are in need of a quick, delicious brunch, head to First Watch. Help yourself to the coffee set out front while you wait and enjoy.

My gripes?

-They don't serve alcohol. The Bloody Mary is one of the bests parts of brunch, without it, you really are just having regular breakfast if you ask me.

-Sometimes the food can be a bit greasy. I love super fresh ingredients for this meal, and as evidence by my always brownish-green avocado, they could stand to be a bit more selective.

I am still on the hunt for the BEST brunch, so be looking for future posts, as I've gather some good material! :)

P.S. I've missed you

My Life > You Not Being Lost Downtown

2011-02-08T10:49:00.000-05:00

So, I have been a downtown resident for less than a year. If you count the time I stayed with Jeff without paying rent, its more like a year and a half. I gotta say, living downtown really changes you in a lot of ways.

For example, I am more afraid to walk to my car in the suburbs than I am in the city. Reason being? It is too damn quiet out there. And too damn dark. I mean, whats up with the no street light thing? I do not call that safe. Anyone could jump outta the dark and grab you, and who would know? No one. Because no one is ever outside in the pitch black.

Also, my perception of driving versus walking has changed. I used to not even want to walk up the block to the corner store when I was at UC, now I'll walk right over to Newport (weather permitting). Driving any distance over a half hour is completely acceptable. But ask me to drive ten minutes to Clifton or Hyde Park? Meehhh... I'll think about it. If the trip isn't important it just seems like a waste of time.

However, the way I have changed the most definitely has to do with my tolerance for folks that don't know their way around downtown. Let me let you in on a little secret, my downtown inferior friends: If you miss your turn, you can drive around the damn block. Nothing bad will happen to you if you miss your street-- Three rights and a straight and you're headed in the right direction once again! Amazing!

Now, don't get me wrong, I am glad that people who live outside of downtown are coming to hang out, but for the sake of my safety, learn your way around, get a GPS, MapQuest it, or stop for directions.

I bring this up because as I was driving home from Bellevue a while ago I nearly died that the hands or tires, rather, of a confused man in a giant suburban. (No pun intended) Now, I realize many of you do not live downtown, so I've opened up that wonderful program called "Paint" and drawn a few diagrams to help you understand what this idiot did.

When I come home form the Bellevue Kroger (memorial Pkwy, not Newport) I take 471 to the US 50/ W 3rd St. exit, keeping straight toward I-71/ I-75 S/ Third Street. As you approach the end of the ramp this is what the intersection looks like. If you'll notice, there are SIX lanes. If you are going straight, however, it is wise to use the four center most lanes (The ones with only straight arrows).

For demonstration purposes I am represented by the bright, gold, shining star that I am. And the Idiot will be represented by the harsh, lightning bolt that he almost was. Notice, I am in the center most lane of the left side off ramp, he- the center most lane of the right side off ramp- two different entrances from two different places on the highway that even stay divided as you continue onto Third Street. In addition please not the NO LEFT TURN sign hanging directly next to his lane's traffic light- because he sure didn't

So as I am approaching Third Street I stay in my lane and continue straight through the Broadway/Third street intersection. (My arrows are pink) And the jackass in the Suburban decides FROM THE RIGHT SIDE to turn left down Broadway!! Instinct (or whatever) kicked in and I punched the gas hard, while Idiot missed me by inches from the back. If I would have hit my brakes instead, that giant car would have plowed right into the passenger side door on my teeny-tiny 2 door civic.

So, downtown aliens just in for the night: KNOW WHERE THE HELL YOU ARE GOING-- IF YOU MISS YOUR TURN, ALL IS NOT LOST, JUST DRIVE AROUND THE NEXT FREAKIN' BLOCK-- AND FOR GOODNESS SAKE OBEY THE DAMN SIGNS, THEY ARE THERE IN CASE OF A SITUATION EXACTLY LIKE THIS ONE.

Once you have mastered the complexities that are "city blocks" then, and only then, please come on down and share this awesome city with me, safely, and in one piece.

Brunch Your Heart Out

2011-02-07T09:57:00.000-05:00

I really want to say sorry to my loyal fans (ha-ha) for not posting as frequently as I should (Maria, Megan, Lora-- sorryyyyy) But all the blogs about advice for blogs tell you to never-ever do that. They all say to just simply start posting again... I guess I didn't follow the instructions that well, but what the hell? I'm sorry for my absence.. love ya all.

If you can name a meal that is as amazing as brunch, I will have to call your bluff. There is nothing quite up to par. I mean, think about it.

The acceptable time for brunch ranges anywhere from 10am to 2 (or 3 in my book) pm. So late sleepers- go a head and snooze, the eggs will still be cracking well passed noon.
The selection of foods involved in brunch are the best ones. Eggs? Absolutely. Pancakes? Hell yeah. Sweet potato, avocado, and goetta hash? You bet your ass. You can order anything. Not a breakfast fan? No problem.. its brunch so order off the lunch menu.
Its completely acceptable to order alcohol before the sun goes down. There are few times when drinking while its light out is considered the norm: Sporting events, festivals, vacations, anytime during your 4 years of college, and brunch. Automatic seal of approval.
The general leisurely air about brunch is very appealing. Everyone is living a crazy hectic life now a days. No matter what you do, its probably stressful, time consuming, disorganized (even though you don't want it to be) and unpredictable. Brunch is the more mini version of a mini vacation. Sit back, relax, sip your Bloody Mary and breathe. That is pretty awesome.

Since I love brunch so much, I've decided to go on a quest to find the best brunch I can. There are some lists, of course that I can use for reference. So wish me luck!

CityBeat's best of 2010 Reader Picks
Wine Me Dine Me
Urbanspoon's List of Spots
MetroMix List

Ya'll can help me too! Whats your favorite brunch spot?

Hidey Ho

2011-01-23T20:10:00.000-05:00

2011 has been trying, difficult, and deeply sad thus far. My family and I have been grieving the loss of our grandmother, June Boisseau, who passed away at 1:00AM on 1/11/11. She was an amazingly inspirational, strong, opinionated woman who I will always look up to.

Rest in peace, grandma B. I will see you again one day. Hidey Ho.

Mid-Week Meows featuring: Easy like Sunday morning

2010-12-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

The Grub: Cilantro

2010-12-28T13:48:00.000-05:00

I have always loved Asian inspired/ Asian fusion foods. I love the flavors, I love that I can get shrimp with almost anything, and I love that it is ALWAYS still good leftover (the cooked variety of course). My darling roommate sophomore year, Angela, and I love it so much that Kim-Chi and rice was a common afternoon snack at our lovely townhouse on Wheeler.

Given that I love Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Sushi, and Korean, I figured my chances of liking Vietnamese were pretty good. So off to Cilantro I went with my lovely friend Heather.

I got the vermicelli noodles with shrimp and had them add extra veggies.

Something about the combination of the sweet chili and house sauce really hit the spot. If I could describe exactly the meal I was in the mood for when I walked in the door, it would have been this. Everything tasted fresh and the combination of lettuce and noodles was different and delicious. My only complaint about this visit was that my veggie spring roll was not what I was expecting. The dough was pretty thick, so although the outside came out crispy, the inside had a soggy bread taste.

I will definitely go back to Cilantro, but next time I think I'll skip the spring roll.

Mid-Week Meows featuring: Pinned!

2010-12-17T15:15:00.000-05:00

The Grub: Jeni's Ice Cream

2010-12-17T13:25:00.000-05:00

Ok, Columbus Folk. Where have you been hiding this little gem?!

Last month I went to visit my little sister at school (OSU) to spend the day with her. It was about time considering she is a junior and I have never made the short trip to see her college life. We had a wonderful day, and the cherry on top was Jeni's Ice Cream. Sooo good.

The Salty Caramel gave Dojo a run for their money... Dessert War? I think so.

The Haps: Festival of Lights

2010-12-14T09:01:00.000-05:00

Surprise date night two Fridays ago found Jeff and I at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden for The Festival of Lights. All bundled up, with Jeff's hand in mine and spiked eggnog in the other we wondered the zoo gazing at the lights. Have you seen these new LED lights yet? Oh m'gawd- I thought I was going to need some sunglasses to look at them.

I was more concerned about the lights and my eggnog than I was my camera, so my pictures aren't award winning- but you can get the general idea.

The Haps: The Lackman

2010-12-13T19:17:00.000-05:00

In late September an awesome bar opened in OTR called The Lackman. Mellow vibe, good people, great beers. Can you really ask for more?

They have a great Happy Hour from 4pm to 8pm, and as you all know, since I work so far away I am always looking for Happy Hours that last longer than the norm. Specials include $2off drafts, $2 domestics, $3.50 imports, $3.50 Micro-drafts and calls, and $5 wine.

When Jeff and I checked it out, the bartender we had was really knowledgeable, and picked a great beer for me to sample, which I ended up ordering.

I just want to note that the Lackman did not ask me to write this post. Bars downtown can be so unstable, so I am always looking for a bar that I think really deserves to make it. The Lackman is one. Go check them out for their awesome Happy Hour specials or spend the whole night there. For my lovely UC readers- their car bombs are the same price as Woody's (Who I will always love!) so its totally worth the trip to OTR!

You can follow the Lackman on twitter @thelackman for updates on specials and seasonal changes :)

The Grub: 2:00 AM Burger

2010-12-12T18:20:00.000-05:00

Last week while I was at work Jeff sent me a text and asked me to pick up a few things on my way home:

Eggs
Jalapeno
Tomato
Hamburger Buns

He said he was going to make dinner for us. "What on earth might he be making us that requires this seemingly random set of ingredients!?"

When I got home- I found my answer: Bacon Cheeseburgers toped with sliced jalapeno, fried egg, lettuce, and tomato. This was the first time I had ever had a burger with an egg on it, and let me tell you something: ALL BURGERS SHOULD HAVE THIS.

It was soooo good I could even eat another right now. Literally. I mean my mouth is watering as I type.

So on Saturday night Jeff and I met up with a few other couples to go to dinner and go ice skating in the square. (word of advice: If you are going to the square to ice skate on a weekend night go at 6 or go at 11- never in between) For dinner we headed to Rock Bottom. Given the success we had with our burgers earlier in the week, Jeff ordered the 2:00 AM Burger It looked amazing:

Like I said. Every burger should come with an egg on it. Go to Rock Bottom. Order this burger. I dare you to tell me other wise.

Our night was really fun. Dinner at Rock Bottom with a round of lemon drops. Palominos for beers and then ice skating :) Great Holiday night!

The Haps: Queen City Underground Tour (Thanks Kiss107)

2010-11-12T16:26:00.000-05:00

A special shout-out needs to be made to Kiss 107 FM's morning fellas, Tim and MMCMG (my mom calls me George) for those of you who don't listen in the mornings (which you should!--They're hilarious-- you can check out their website here.)

One morning, on my normal drive up 71, I was listening to Tim and MMCMG on my way to work and they were talking about this awesome tour they did where you go UNDERNEATH THE CITY!! The tour takes you around OTR, into some buildings that were the hot spots (German beer halls) of the earlier part of last century. It is all about breweries in OTR when it was a hoppin' place. Beer and History? I'm in.

So, a few weeks ago, my Mama, uncle, and I went on the tour, which is hosted by the guys at Queen City Underground.

So first we went into a building that used to be an old German beer hall. All the wood work is original. It is really amazing to walk inside a building that I drive by weekly- almost daily- and see how amazing it is inside. From the street you would never guess that inside is a hundred years and seven floors of history.

Another stop is in St. Francis Church & Friary on the corner of Liberty and Vine. Have you ever been inside this place? It is amazing. Originally built by the Irish, the courtyard was used as a grave yard until the Germans bought the building. Some of the grave stones, dating all the way back to the 1700's are still in the building.

Next, we moved onto the best part. Over the Rhine is one of the largest historic districts in the country-- bigger than anywhere in Savannah, Charleston, or the French Quarter. At one point, there were over 130 bars and beer gardens, and a theater on every corner. In one of the buildings, some folks cut through the concrete floor in the basement and underneath they discovered thousands of square feet of tunnels. Buildings are popping up all along Vine street, McMicken, and I would venture to guess others with these cavernous tunnel systems underground. They were originally built as breweries! Underground beer heaven.

These photos hardly describe what it is like to go down there and see this. The stories told by the guides are interesting and entertaining. I would definitely recommend that you check this out-- tickets are only $15! It is no secret that Cincinnati loves drinking-- so take some pride in your city's pastime and learn a little about why it seems beer is in our blood here in the Queen City.

Mid-Week Meows featuring: the Cat in the Hat

2010-11-04T09:33:00.000-04:00

Can't find the floor? Its under all the shit.

2010-11-03T11:31:00.000-04:00

I've been spending quite a bit of time lately trying to figure out what direction I want my life to go in. I keep thinking of different possibilities, the first steps to go that direction, and what kind of possible out comes could exist.

Then from somewhere in the back of my mind the image of my messy bedroom pops into my head. And I think "I don't really know what I want out of life, but I know that none of the future Denises live in such a messy house"

One day last year, I text my sister, telling her that I wanted to be more organized, like she is. I said "How do I do it? How do I make my life more organized like yours?" Her response? "Go absolutely crazy if it's not."

There's an idea. But going crazy is just the first step. Then what?

To find out, I went to the web:
There was a ton of great advice: "What to do if you're in a slump" "Got a mess? 6 tips on how to stay organized" ETC. I noticed one similarity in the ten plus blogs and articles I checked out: All the advice was directed at "this is what YOU do". None of it was first hand. I didn't read a single article or post about "this is what I did."

While I'm sure the advice was proven to work and all that jazz I still had a problem with it. The fact that none of the tips were first hand leads me to believe that none of these people have ever had to tackle a mess like the one I have looming on my bedroom floor. You wouldn't jump out of plane if the instructor had never done it would you? Cleaning my room is going to be just as monumental.

So here's the plan:
1. Think about what has worked for me in the past. What do I do to effectively clean up?
2. Think about what DIDN'T work. Why does it always eventually get messy again?

Here are my steps:
1. Stay Focused: Too often I get distracted looking through old photos, trying on clothes I haven't worn in a long time, or just watching t.v.
2. Clear the Clutter: This has always helped me cover some ground: I need to ask myself: Have you used this in the last year? Will you ever use it again? If the answer is no, get rid of it.
3. Work in Stages: Divide the work up into smaller jobs so each job gives me a sense of accomplishment and more motivation to keep going!
4. Don't give up: Undoubtedly, half way through I will look around and think "Well, that's good enough" NO IT'S NOT. (This is the going crazy part-- sometimes its okay to be a little neurotic.)
5. Follow Up: As with any task, up keep is important. It only stays clean if I make it stay clean. Everyday when I get home from work, the first fifteen minutes I am home will be dedicated to simple pick-up.

In the grand scheme of things, this is a very small goal to accomplish and maintain, but for some reason I have never been very good at staying organized. As a result, my messy room has been the source of stress for me that, once controlled, will make me feel much more on top of life.

What are some tips and tricks you use to stay organized? Obviously, I could use the help!

Mid-Week Meows featuring: Mischief

2010-10-28T11:00:00.000-04:00

The Haps: Neltner Farm's Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-26T12:52:00.000-04:00

Cross another fall festivity off the to-do list!! Over the weekend Jeff and I went on a search for the best pumpkin in all thee land. Initially, we wanted to go to Sunrock Farm, just off of 471 because his old fraternity did their hay-rides there so he was familiar.

If only we had thought to call the place before we go in the car. About five (of the ten) minutes into our drive, we decided to call in and find out about their offerings. Only to discover that they only offer scheduled hay-rides out to the pumpkin patch and the next one wasn't until 4. (It was 1:30).

But then-- I REMEMBERED!! I had grabbed a flier from the corner deli under 4nP for Neltner's Farm. The flier boasted a corn maze, fresh baked goods and produce, pumpkins, and a petting zoo!!!! Now, I love anything that has the word zoo in it. I still mentally think "CooooLLL!!!!" in a little kid's voice whenever Jeff takes me somewhere with animals. I love it. So, naturally, I was sold. We called up for directions and info to discover that not only were all of the things promised on the flier real, but pumpkins would run us 34 cents a pound and the corn maze was only 3 bucks. Score.

Set in the hills of Kentucky, this farm was so cute, and very family friendly

The best part of the "petting-zoo" were the horses. They also had turkeys, goats, sheep, donkeys, etc.

A horse drawn wagon was set up to take people out to the pumpkin patch.

Jeff and I got away with two great pumpkins for under 10 bucks. Which is good since us city folk didn't consider that the farm might not take credit cards and 10 bucks was all we had.

The produce and fresh baked goods inside the barn looked awesome. There were yams, cucumbers, and a plethora of other garden veggies. As well as jams, assorted gourds, pickles, and fresh cider.

I really enjoyed this day.

And our pumpkins turned out great!

Mid-Week Meows featuring: Cat Naps

2010-10-21T10:01:00.000-04:00

Walk 40 miles in someone else's shoes

2010-10-15T10:36:00.001-04:00

Ok, this is pretty cool. Today and tomorrow the men of Kappa Alpha Psi from Miami Oxford will be WALKING from the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to Oxford today and tomorrow. The roughly 40 mile Freedom Walk is to raise awareness of the Freedom Center's mission to promote equality, freedom, and the reduction of human suppression worldwide.

8 members of the fraternity and a few alumni members will participate in the walk that starts today in Northern Kentucky and continues tomorrow from the Freedom Center to Oxford, Ohio. The route is along a historic Underground Railroad path. The walkers are asking for pledge donations of 1$ per mile, which can be made at undergroundrailroad.org

Special thanks to Kate for correcting my mistake!! To make donations visit freedomcenter.org Oops! Blame it on Friday!