On a Lobster Placemat

Just a Reminder

2009-05-18T12:15:00.000-07:00

This is just a reminder that I've changed my blog address to http://onalobsterplacemat.com/. There are some people I haven't heard from in a while - so I thought it might be a good time to update the old blog. Hope you like the newer look!

An Update for Google Readers

2009-03-02T19:19:00.000-08:00

In case you tried subscribing to my new blog and had problems, be sure to type in this address when managing your subscriptions: http://onalobsterplacemat.com/feed.

If the title does not appear in your Google Reader, click on "title unknown" and then "Feed Settings" and then "Rename Subscription" - then type in my blog name, On a Lobster Placemat.

Sorry for those of you who already knew this - but I had a little trouble when configuring tonight and thought I might pass it on!

NEW BLOG ADDRESS! Update your Reader!

2009-03-02T12:19:00.000-08:00

Hey all - more on lunch later, but for now I wanted to make a big announcement. I have finally bought my own domain name and have a brand new site: http://onalobsterplacemat.com. Please update your readers and follow me over there! I really hope to see you!

The site is still a work in progress, but I am getting there - slowly but surely. I was going to wait a little longer, but I'm too excited to use all the gadgets on Wordpress. I will no longer be posting on blogger, though this blog will stay alive for backup purposes. At least for a short while.

Thanks for all your support and look forward to seeing you :)

Snowed-in Oatmeal

2009-03-02T08:52:00.001-08:00

It's been a busy morning in La Casa de Lobster Placemat. One of my responsibilities for my job is making weather updates on various external websites, so I spent the bulk of the morning receiving calls from 5 - 9 a.m. regarding weather updates. We were delayed until 10 a.m., then delayed until noon and finally the university shut down for the day. I also heard word that there is no class tonight, so I am snowed-in and loving today!

In honor of this occasion, I made a bowl of snowed-in oats.

I was hoping the blueberries would pop a little more and make this bowl a little bluer, but they stuck to their guns today. I added my recent favorite combination - cool whip and pecans as toppings.

The perfect snowed-in oatmeal. I savored every bite. Now I'm busy planning what to do with this wonderful day off. It's a rarity for me.

I'm using today as a catch-up on some projects I've left slide to the wayside:

freelance brochure (I've been working on for months!)
blog migration (details on this to come!)
preparing for the launch of my online portfolio (again, more details on this to come!)
looking into Turbo Tax
getting in at least 20 minutes of yoga
working on my memoir piece for Thursday's class

What's the weather like where you? Are you off for the day? What are you up to?

Gaining Inspiration from Blogland

2009-03-01T18:08:00.001-08:00

This morning, after sleeping in and watching bad movies on TV for a while, Bill and I decided to visit a deli we've driven by probably more than 200 times: the Woodside Deli Restaurant.

It never occurred to us to visit this venue because of outside appearance. It's crammed in between a gas station and another building, and it's an easy miss if you're driving quickly. Friends Brian and Amy recently visited the Deli while looking for houses and raved about how good the food was. Since our favorite breakfast spot, Kirsten's Cafe, closed down recently - we thought this might be a nice alternative - and it's right across the street.

I was in an omelette mood, so I ordered one filled with spinach, mushrooms and feta cheese. I also got a side of grits (that I only took a bite of - and gave the rest to Bill). I also had a side of wheat toast (not featured).

Bill got the Eggs Benedict with hash browns. I thought they looked pretty on the plate, so I snapped a picture.

After brunch, we drove to Bed, Bath and Beyond to buy some coffee for the Keurig and then (ironically) went and visited a new coffee shop in town. I didn't get any pictures because the place was packed - and I needed to get some serious schoolwork done. But I did order an iced latte with skim milk and a banana nut muffin.

Around 5 p.m., I headed to the gym - which was only a short walk from the coffee shop. I had it in my mind to run 5 miles and really get on with my training. After reading both Caitlin's posts and Meghann's posts about their awesome racing weekends - I felt pretty inspired.

STATS! So happy about these!

5 miles
60ish minutes (I am ok with being slow!)
545 calories burned
My legs felt SO good... first time in a long time!
I had a side cramp and stopped to walk a few times... but that was ok because my legs were happy!

When I got home, I felt inspired by another blogger out there - Tina over at Carrots N' Cake. She's doing a 31-Days of Yoga Challenge, and I was excited to participate. I ended up doing 20 minutes of the Core Yoga #1 for 20 minutes.

It.was.SO.hard.

I haven't done yoga in five years. I could barely bend in the positions, and my arms were so tired. But I felt so good by the end! I'm looking forward to more yoga sessions in the future.

After yoga, I cooked up some lunches for the week and made this random dinner.

I made a salad with a four-bean mix (to be featured on a lunch post later this week), some mixed greens, kale and turkey.

Whole wheat bread slathered in Sabra hummus.

Now I'm working on finishing up some homework (though I'm rooting for a snow day and some cancellations!). I have a writing exercise due tomorrow and another memoir story due on Thursday for workshop. Plus I have to read This Boy's Life.

Yikes. Must jet!

Rob's 2nd Annual Beer Tasting

2009-03-01T07:49:00.001-08:00

When our friend Rob mentioned he'd be having another beer tasting in February, I was pretty excited. I'm not huge on beer, but I like tastings (of course), and Rob prepares to the utmost for his.

Everyone had a beer tasting glass and water glass (labeled with our names by Kate). There was Brita water to rinse the glass between tastings and seltzer water to cleanse our palates.

The food was also displayed when we got there. Because we were drinking a lot of stout beers, Rob had a lot of dessert including: brownies, truffles (not pictured), pecan pie, cake and chocolate cheesecake - brought by me.

But the secret about the chocolate cheesecake is that I choked and ended up not making one - but instead buying these 7 individual cakes. I need to be braver sometimes...

Here's my plate all loaded up, which in the end - was way too much. I didn't touch the piece of cake and only had a small bite of the cheesecake. Too much sweets for me... my belly was hurting!

And now the beer samplings. Since they all look similar, I created a gallery of sorts. Here was our menu:

1) Rogue Shakespeare Stout - Rogue Ales, Newport, OR., 6% ABV

2) Sam Smith Oatmeal Stout - Samuel Smith, Tadcaster, England 5% ABV

3) Rogue Chocolate Stout - Rogue Ales, Newport, OR., 6.3% ABV

4) Bell's Special Double Cream Stout - Bell's Brewery, Kalamazoo, MI., 6.1% ABV

5) Mikkeller Beer Geek Breakfast - Mikkeller Brewery, Copenhagen, Denmark, 7.5% ABV

6) Rob and Brian's "Absurdity" Imperial Stout - Existential Brewing, Arlington, VA., 10.2% ABV

7) Victory Storm King Imperial Stout - Victory Brewing Co., Downingtown, PA, 9.1%ABV

8) Bell's Expedition Stout - Bell's Brewery, Kalamazoo, MI, 10.5% ABV

9) Dogfish Head World Wide Stout - Dogfish Head Brewery, Milton, DE 18% ABV

10) Mystery beer Rob brought out - don't remember the name

And here are some photos...

I ended up tasting most of the beers, but at one point my stomach started really feeling upset, so I took a break. I ended up sipping a few and giving the rest to Bill. I think I overdid it too quickly - and ended up paying for it. Even though the stomach issues happened, I still had a great time and enjoyed trying the different beers. The first and last ones were my favorite.

Here are some photos from the night:

Rob pouring us each a glass.

Preparation + Socializing

More friends :)

A Whole Lotta Brian in this shot (see left)

Billy and I... we decided to finally get a picture together (we always forget to do this at parties!)

An hour or so after the tasting, everyone was craving some non-dessert food. Kate went out to a Peruvian chicken place and brought back some grub. I thought the food might help my stomach (plus I was really hungry), so I grabbed a sampling of chicken, coleslaw, a few french fries, and different beans.

There was also (of course) some music being played, and I secretly captured about 30 seconds of Rob and Keith.

We hit the road around 10:30 p.m. - which is pretty early for us, but I got a call from work that worried me and the weather was getting bad. We got home around 11:15 p.m. or so and pretty much crashed.

All in all, I really enjoyed the beer tasting and hope Rob has more in the future! I can only see them getting bigger and better :)

Bagel Towne Deli

2009-02-28T11:39:00.001-08:00

One thing I love about Bill is that he's always willing to take a driving adventure to find different eateries. Today's lunch included a drive to nearby Rockville to the Bagel Towne Deli.

The place was different than I expected. It was in a developed sort of area that was trying to look like a town (but wasn't), but the inside had a nice, cozy atmosphere with a hometown feel.

I decided to get the Yenta which was a bagel sandwich with hummus, carrots, sprouts, cucumbers and munster cheese (I omitted the tomato). For my side, I chose fruit and a pickle.

Talk about a loaded bagel. It was needed after this morning's workout - that's for sure.

Now I'm off to spend the rest of the afternoon doing some of this:

Totally disinterested in me. I may go read a book. We are heading to Rob and Kate's house for his 2nd Annual Beer Tasting. Should be an exciting post with lots of photos + some video tomorrow!

And thanks to everyone who read my morning post about running. It was nice to share my thoughts with you and see that others have been in the same situation. I wanted to add (in case it was unclear) that I do enjoy running. I just need to set better and more achievable goals for this point in my life :)

On Being an Ex-Runner

2009-02-28T09:19:00.000-08:00

I had a very reflective gym experience today. Because my batteries are dead in my camera - I thought now would be the perfect time to do an Exercise Installment on On a Lobster Placemat.

I love working out on Saturdays. This morning I woke up, went to the gym around 9:30 a.m., lifted for 20 minutes, took a step class and ran a mile - and burned 625 calories. I was so excited by the number on my HRM, I ignored how good my legs felt when I ran and how much better I can keep up in step class. I like knowing how many calories I burn (especially on days where I know I'll be eating out), but I realized that I was losing sight of why I do what I do and how it makes me feel. I lift because of the way I feel after. I take step class because it's so much fun. And I run because I like knowing I can travel far distances like that, on my own two legs.

I don't talk about exercise that much on this blog. I've been thinking about that recently. I guess there are a couple reasons and a lot of it goes back to my days of being a runner.

In high school, I did the unthinkable for someone in my (genetically overweight/obese) family. I signed up for the cross country team. I didn't think I'd do well at soccer, and I knew I wanted to play a sport that would challenge me. I ran all four years in high school and set my all-time PR when I was 17. I continued running in college but by my senior year, it had tapered off dramatically. When I moved down to DC, I vowed I would become a runner again.

But I really didn't.

And I still don't think I am a runner. And maybe that's why I skim over it in blog posts. I haven't run more than 6 miles in several years. I haven't raced in four years. My average run is 3 miles, at best, and I'm much slower than I used to be. I feel like an ex-runner most of the time.

I'm not writing all this for it to be a pity party. I'm writing it because look at my attitude. (!) It's no wonder that when my friend Katie asked if I would run a half marathon with her in May 2009, I sheepishly said, "maybe" and told her that I'd "fake-train" (meaning I'd try and run, but I wouldn't sign up until the last minute). I still haven't signed up for the race. And it still feels incredibly far away in terms of goals. And maybe it is. Maybe I'm setting goals that are too high for where I'm at right now. I don't know.

My food mindset changed dramatically when I started this blog. I can finally appreciate food and use it to nourish my body. But it's taken a while for my exercise mindset to catch up. I know if I think positively and train hard, I can succeed. But how do you get over the initial hump and start believing in yourself?

I'm not sure if I've come to any revelations yet about running or exercise. I just wanted to share these thoughts with you.

Talk about Lunch Links

2009-02-27T13:47:00.001-08:00

My lunch is so boring in comparison the amount of fun things happening on the blog world.

First there’s the challenges: Tina’s doing a 31-Days Of Yoga Challenge, and Chandra’s doing the March Booty Buster Challenge. Neither compares to this sando with hummus.

Lucky Taste Buds is giving out some Barney Butter (and I couldn’t be more happy), and Mara is doing a little chocolate giveaway on her blog. Again, neither compares to this salad (though it had a spectacular crunch factor).

And we certainly can’t forget about Foods that Fit’s really great idea about creating a bloggie cookbook. Click here to learn more and submit!

OK. Confession time.

After I ate lunch, I went for another lunch to Chick Fil-A with my coworkers. I ate some waffle fries and drank a HUGE Hi-C. It was so delicious. I haven’t had Hi-C since I worked at Burger King when I was 17 years old.

Delicious and Addictive. Most definitely well worth it, though I had a serious sugar let-down in the afternoon.

I’m off to guzzle some H2o now. It’s Friday!!!!!!

Mango-nana-berry Smoothie

2009-02-27T06:48:00.001-08:00

I made another smoothie this morning.

So far, all of my smoothies have essentially looked the same. I think it’s because of my key ingredients (including blueberries!) I need to get some strawberries in this blender so I can have something fun and pink.

I love watching how the Vita-Mix can take something that looks like this:

And turn it into this in about 20 seconds:

And by the way – this was A LOT of smoothie. I made enough for two people, so I’m taking some to work for a morning snack.

I love this Vita-Mix machine!

You may have noticed that I didn’t blog last night. I had book club and didn’t get home until about 9:15 p.m. I was exhausted and just wanted to spend time with Bill and Scone, so I called it a night and enjoyed some 30 Rock. I want to review the book we read for book club – but I’m out of time, so we’ll save that for later :)

So I’m curious: What are your weekend plans?

My friend Rob is having another beer tasting like the one he had last July. I can’t wait to blog about it!

Horned Melon Oatmeal

2009-02-26T05:08:00.001-08:00

On a Lobster Placemat is featuring a very special guest for breakfast today: the horned melon.

If you've ever done research on the horned melon, you'll find that it doesn't matter which way you cut it. Just make sure your melon is fresh and ready to eat - which can be judged by its outside appearance.

I sort of think this is the type of fruit that gets a bad rap due to its slimy and green interior. But it can do wonderful things to a bowl of oatmeal.

I squeezed one half of the melon into my oats while cooking and used the other half for garnish. I then ate one of the leftover pieces - just to see what it was like. It didn't have a strong taste to me, just more of a strong texture.

From what I've read, you can eat the seeds. But it still felt weird to me, seeing them boppin' about in my oats. I ate 'em just the same and again, didn't notice a huge burst or change of flavor in my oats.

Many other people in the blog world have been experimenting with horned melons too. My review is pretty in line with the rest.

Definitely beautiful. But not worth the effort (of eating) and money ($5/melon!).

What is a food item you've been wanting to try and haven't? OR What is the most exotic food you've ever had?

Lemon Pepper Chicken + Random Tid Bits

2009-02-25T18:03:00.001-08:00

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers this morning. You guys are seriously the best. It's been a strange day - thinking back to what was taking place one year ago. As I said earlier, I wasn't super close with my uncle, but it's tough watching your family go through something like that. Please know how much your thoughts were appreciated.

After work I scooted my butt to the gym for a run. It was TERRIBLE. I ran 3.75 miles in 40 minutes and burned 431 calories. Sounds good - but again, my legs felt like bricks on that treadmill, and I think the culprit is a lack of real, solid stretching. Runners in the house: how do you stretch and how often?

I whipped up a quick dinner post gym with some chicken I'd been marinating in lemon pepper sauce + a big ole' whopping salad.

Check out the bubbly bubbly in the frying pan.

Then I added some leftover couscous that had been hiding in the fridge for a few days. Notice my broken spoon holder (that was a gift from my grandmother, I might add) that Bill accidentally broke the other day :(

Then I mixed up a nice salad with:

mixed greens
arugula
carrots
cucumbers
mushrooms
artichokes

And then splashed some new dressing on the greens.

I liked it!

I also thought I'd show you where I actually eat all my meals. Sadly, the lobster placemats just don't do justice to our table.

And Bill turned his meal into a wrap with a Flat-Out, which I thought was inventive, so I took a quick pic.

Baltimore Blogger Meet-up

Some of you have emailed or commented about this, and I thought I'd give you a head's up. I'm thinking sometime in late March (mainly because I'm busy every weekend until then), and I was thinking about a Friday or Saturday night. Again, please email me at onalobsterplacemat AT gmail DOT com if you'd like to join. More details to follow!

Time for Lost + The Top Chef Finale. Who's excited? If you're a Top Chef fan like me, who's your pick? I'm pulling for Carla - DC females represent!

Family Oatmeal

2009-02-25T04:40:00.001-08:00

There seems to be a story in this bowl of oatmeal, though I don't know what. Don't worry. I'll get to it... if I let it out.

There are many different shapes and textures to the bowl. Almost like they don't all belong. Almost like a family, sometimes.

My family is huge, and I don't know everyone as much as I should - but that's what happens when there's so many.

All of this is leading right up to the real story, the heart of today's post: today is the one-year anniversary of my uncle's accidental death in the mines. We were not very close prior to his death, but he did have a profound effect on my childhood and the memories I hold from that time.

Would you mind keeping my family in your good thoughts today? Especially my mother?

Thanks.

A-mazing Tofu Tuesday

2009-02-24T17:19:00.001-08:00

There are two things that amaze me tonight:

My ability to have motivation to go to the gym when completely exhausted (though if I'm hungry - forget it)
Bill's tofu cooking skills

I went to the gym right after work today and ran 4 miles on the treadmill followed by 20 minutes of lifting. One hour of exercise: 531 calories. I was so excited by the progress I've actually been making with my running. The half marathon is seriously feeling more feasible lately.

And the other thing I was really excited about? This dinner that was waiting for me when I got home.

This was seriously some of the best tofu he's ever made. I am going to credit this bottle, which I've seen on various blogs and had to try:

They're not kidding. This sauce is serious. Check out the before burn:

and after some serious burn:

And what goes better with tofu than some butternut squash fries? Which I didn't realize was a butternut squash until I was finished - I definitely thought this was a sweet potato.

Beautiful golden glow.

This is seriously one of the best dinners post run. I went back for seconds on the fries, and I am definitely considering a fudge pop in my future.

I'm exhausted so this is looking like a night of bad TV, a bit of reading and early to bed. What are you up to?

PS: MAJOR CONGRATS TO MY FRIENDS (we're staying anonymous here, folks) WHO ARE SUPER SUPER SUPER CLOSE TO BUYING A HOUSE! SUPER SUPER SUPER CLOSE TO US!

Chicken-Orzo Salad

2009-02-24T10:38:00.001-08:00

I love this recipe, and I loved this lunch – even though I didn’t have goat cheese on hand (like the recipe called for) to sprinkle on top.

Cooking Light’s Chicken-Orzo Salad with (out) Goat Cheese

I even used fake chicken, and although the first few bites were weird – I ended up sort of liking it (though I don’t think I’ll buy it again.)

I should also note that the recipe calls for some tomatoes (ugh) and random peppers (double ugh) so I just subbed with chickpeas (yay!).

… and now, a shout-out to my good friend Jenn over at Eating Bender, who gave me a lovely award a few days ago.

Well isn’t that just super sweet? Thanks so much, Jenn! And who will I be giving this award to? Just a handful of some of my favorite bloggers (sorry if you were double-tagged!)

LUNCH LINKS-O-RAMA

The blog world is exploding with fun contests and prizes.

Carrots ‘n Cake is doing another Scavenger Photo Hunt
For the Love of Oats is hosting her first giveaway with fun prizes to celebrate her blog birthday
Jackson’s World is giving away some Country Bob’s Sauce

Oh, and if you haven’t checked out my girl Heather’s post about her interview with Stephanie Izard – be sure to do so!

Pecan Plum Parfait

2009-02-24T05:09:00.001-08:00

I am pretty sure I almost died this morning - and went directly to oatmeal heaven.

Let me explain... or rather, let me back up for a minute, so you can see the richness of this business.

Yes. I totally ate most of that bowl. Yes. I did put too much cool whip on. Yes. I doused the bowl in pecans.

.... Yes. It was so freaking good that it almost gave me a belly ache.

Can you remember the richest dish you've ever tasted? That question is open and up to interpretation; could be $$ or could be belly-aching full.

Next to this bowl of oatmeal (see above), one of my richest oatmeal experiences was the time I added chocolate ice cream and called it Chocolate Covered Banana Oatmeal. My tummy was in a strange mood that day.

Exclusive Interview with Season 4 Top Chef Winner Stephanie Izard

2009-02-23T14:22:00.001-08:00

When a Quaker Oats representative contacted me, asking if I’d be up for doing an interview with Season 4 Top Chef Winner Stephanie Izard – I was completely speechless. Would I? You mean me, right? Rose from On a Lobster Placemat? Of course I’d interview Stephanie. I’d be more than honored!

We worked around schedules, and before I knew it – a phone interview was scheduled (with Stephanie. yes, the real Stephanie Izard, the Top Chef winner!) I couldn’t believe it! I am still in awe right now!

Needless to say, Stephanie’s phone personality was identical to her Top Chef persona from last year: she was completely down-to-earth and super fun to speak with. I heard pots and pans in the background, she laughed at my lame jokes – it was a great time! In the heat of the moment, I realized that I forget to ask her one of my most important questions – but that’s OK. These will do just fine!

What have you eaten so far today?
I’ve actually been munching on some bacon today because I’m using it in a recipe.

I eat a lot of oatmeal on my blog, so that is my breakfast of choice. What is your ideal breakfast?
I eat a lot of yogurt with plain oats or just some other cereal mixed in there.

What is the best dish you’ve ever cooked with oats?
I really like to use oats as a breading. I just made a stuffed pepper and used some oats in there. I like using and substituting it in different dishes. I like replacing different things, like lentils, and giving oats a try instead.

Since starting my blog, “On a Lobster Placemat,” I've lost whatever taste I had for lobsters by having them be always a part of my daily life. Is there anything you've worked with so much that your conception has changed or you no longer have a taste for it?
I just love eating so much that it really hasn’t happened to me. However, I am going to a pig farm this weekend, and I’m sure that I’ll feel bad eating pork products when I get back. But I think it’s good to know what you’re eating and where it comes from. I think we should all be more involved with that process.

Are you cooking right now? I think I hear the pots and pans.
Oh, yeah! Some friends are having a beer dinner in Chicago, and I’m making the cheese course.

Sounds good. How’s the weather in Chicago right now?
It’s a little bit chilly today.

I was actually just in Chicago for a conference, and I couldn’t really eat the pizza because I’m allergic to red sauce. What Chicago food would you recommend for someone who can’t eat pizza?
You know, the culinary scene has gotten really good. Some great places have opened up that I go to a lot like The Bristol and the Republic. There is just some really tasty food in Chicago.

I like to play with my food. What’s the most visually creative dish you’ve ever made?
For me, it’s all about colors on a plate. I’m not into stacking the plate super high or making it super crazy. I just really enjoy using natural fruits and vegetables and really showing off the season.

I’m really into reading. What’s the last book you’ve read?
Well, I read a lot of cookbooks…

That’s ok. Cookbooks are books too!
Haha. Well, I just read My Last Supper, which is about the final meals of 50 great chefs. It’s really good.

Ok, now what is your favorite book or cookbook?
I would have to say Culinary Artistry. It’s a really great reference book for chefs.

Now on to some Top Chef questions. Related to the last episode, what would your last meal be?
I really love sushi and French fries. So I would have some nice sashimi and churros with ranch dressing.

Ranch dressing is always good…Since winning Top Chef, what have you been up to and how has your life changed?
My main project has been my new restaurant which is opening in Fall 2009 and is called the Drunken Goat. I also launched my own website - http://www.stephanieizard.com/, where I have posted recipes, podcasts and a little bit of everything else. I also have a new podcast series on my site called The Tasty Life. I’m also working on a cookbook and just doing a little bit of everything.

So what’s your story with Top Chef? What made you decide to go for it?
I had been cooking for 12 years and had owned my own restaurant. My coworkers kept saying, “You should really go on Top Chef. You should really give it a shot.” They ended up calling, and I thought that I might as well try.

Were you always interested in cooking growing up?
I grew up in a household where my mother cooked cuisines from all over the world. I started getting in the kitchen when I was eight. I was just more interested in Julia Child than TV or video games or things other kids liked.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to audition for Top Chef?
Honestly, just be true to yourself and go to have fun. That’s really what cooking is all about. Just don’t forget that it is a competition, and you really need to focus on the food.

What is the craziest thing that ever happened while you were on Top Chef?
I think the craziest challenge was the Wedding Wars challenge, where we were awake for two days straight. I think I drank about ten Diet Cokes in those two days. We were all just pushing ourselves to stay awake. It was so crazy.

Were there things done to cause drama on Top Chef or did they just happen naturally?
You know, the situation itself causes drama. It’s just a high pressure situation; they don’t create that drama – though the show does create that world. I think we could chalk a lot of it up to the fact that we were lacking sleep for five weeks and that situation just inevitably can cause some drama.

Who is your pick for the Top Chef Season Five Season Finale?My pick… Well, Carla definitely has won the most improved award. It seems like Hosea and Stefan are neck in neck, though Stefan hasn’t been too hot lately. You know, I think it’s really anyone’s game. They just have to be careful in the finale. One mistake will really get you. No matter what, I’m excited for whoever wins, and I look forward to catching up with them in Aspen.

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NOTE: Do you think you have what it takes to be a Top Chef? Check out the Quaker Oats Viewer Quickfire Challenge and submit your recipe!

Be sure to check out Hangry Pants and Heather Bakes for more exclusive interviews with Stephanie!

Chicken, Carrot and Cucumber Salad + Top Chef Exclusive!

2009-02-23T09:44:00.001-08:00

I have about five minutes to spare, so this is going to be snappy! For lunch today, I had what I made last night around dinner time: Chicken, Carrot and Cucumber Salad.

I DO recommend this salad. I DO NOT recommend making it the day before – the mayonaise liqui-fied over night. Eek!

Anyway, here are the ingredients for this beast. A very simple salad, I promise you!

See, check out yesterday’s version:

And today’s:

See the slightly watery difference? That’s ok. I still ate it!

Lunch Links

A couple fun things popped up in my email today.

News of the Day

If you’ve checked out my twitter or facebook page, then you might have noticed that (along with Hangry Pants and Heather Bakes) I am interviewing Stephanie Izard – winner of Top Chef, Season 4. I had intended on keeping this a secret, but since HP and HB announced it on their blogs – I couldn’t help but join in the fun :)

I have conferenced with HP about this, and we are making sure to not overlap questions. BUT, if you do have any last minute items you’re dying to ask, feel free to post them here! I will do my best to ask Stephanie today.

What’s your news of the day??

Peanut Butter Jelly Oatmeal

2009-02-23T05:08:00.001-08:00

I think Bill eats a PB & J every day of the week. I know this because the peanut butter jar is constantly almost out, and we almost never have bread. I also saw him eat one the other day.

Seeing him eat all these PB&Js made me crave them all the more. So I decided to make on in oat form.

The granola was half of this free sample that I received in the mail quite some time ago.

This bowl of oatmeal was perfect. In the oats I used a banana, one teaspoon of jelly, and one teaspoon of peanut butter (along with cinnamon and vanilla). The combination and the consistency were just what I wanted this morning.

Did you all watch the Oscars last night? I did - in between reading chapters of books. When Bill got home, he sat down to watch it with me and decided to take some black and white photos. Check out our dining room (It looks much better than in real life).

And then Scone was sitting on his lap, and I decided to give the ole camera a try. Welcome to my everyday.

So I have two questions for you to mull over this morning:

1) What was your opinion of the Oscars?

2) What is your favorite go-to sandwich? (Is it PB & J too?)

Let's get through Monday!

Give me back the weekend (!)

2009-02-22T18:05:00.001-08:00

I am in awe that it's Sunday night already. Seriously. What just happened to my weekend? I got most of the things done I wanted to - and had some time to relax + be with friends - but not nearly enough.

Last night we went out to dinner with Rob, Kate + a few more new friends - seven of us total. We headed over to Tap & Vine in Arlington, who catered Rob & Kate's wedding in December.

We started off with a hummus plate - which I got a photo of.

And we also shared a basket of truffle fries (french fries made with truffle oil) - which I did not get a photo of.

For dinner, I got the Greek Pita with mixed vegetables. I almost got a hamburger (to which everyone cheered) but decided to stick with veggies instead.

Bill and I didn't eat lunch yesterday which, in hindsight, was really stupid. I plowed through this plate and was still hungry. Kate and I ended up going to Whole Foods after dinner and got a ton of sweet treats for everyone. We went back to R & K's place, ate cupcakes and played board games for the rest of the night. I got a tummy ache and felt a little sick - so we left around 12:30 a.m. Even though it was a weird stomach night - I still had a great time and enjoyed celebrating R & K's 2-month wedding anniversary :)

SUNDAY

This morning I woke up craving eggs in a bad way. But I also wanted oatmeal because I wanted to feel full. So I made savory/sweet oats.

This egg was so beautiful. I had to take a close up shot.

Breakfast was good - and satisfying, but banana oats + an egg do not mix. I ended up removing the egg and eating it separately.

Bill and I went grocery shopping, and when we got home I wanted something quick for lunch. I bought these a few weeks ago and thought I'd give them a try.

They were pretty good. I decided to have two - since they were small - and paired them with broccoli. A totally overboard veggie lunch.

Close-up shot for those who are curious.

Because I'm supposedly training for a half-marathon, I decided to do my "long run" of the week around 4:30 p.m. today. I wasn't sure about the weather, but I knew it was windy - so Bill loaned me his under armor. I decided to wear the most ridiculous outfit ever and admire my muscles before I left:

I look completely idiotic in this photo, and I know it. Consider this my public confession of ridiculousness.

The run was good! I ran for 42 minutes, which I am going to assume (based on my normal speed) is 4 miles (I didn't have my Nike system on), and I burned 398 calories. Woo! I felt really could today and could have ran for much longer - which makes me feel positive about actually running this race in May. The only problem with today was that DC IS VERY COLD, and that under armor/t-shirt combo didn't cut it.

After my run, I made a few dishes for lunches this week - and decided to have one for dinner:

Chicken, Carrot and Cucumber Salad

I will post process pictures at lunch tomorrow, but I decided to have mine wrapped up - with a few water crackers on the side for fun.

NEWS ITEMS

I am conducting a very important interview tomorrow, and if you've read Hangry Pants blog, then you should have an idea of who it is - more details on this on Tuesday
I am still taking names for the potential Baltimore blogger meetup. Email me!
I am v. busy with school items this week, so blogging may be more sporadic.

OSCAR TIME!

Mango Berry Banana Smoothie

2009-02-21T09:54:00.001-08:00

I have so much to do today, and I don't know how or if I'll get it all done, but here's hoping! Thankfully, I started the day out with a wonderfully sweaty gym session.

1-hour step class
25-minutes of lifting
total calories burned: 604
highest heart rate: 183
lowest heart rate: 145

It felt so nice to spend a good hour and a half at the gym - free of interruptions or needing to be somewhere else. I loved it!

When I got home, I made myself up a nice smoothie.

It was definitely refreshing after a gym workout, but I think I had a little too much ice and not enough liquid because it wasn't as smoothie like as my last try.

Here are some process photos:

Ingredients:

blueberries
mango
banana
oatmeal
ice
milk
peanut butter

Voila!

So now it's time to tackle the major to-do list:

Clean kitchen, living room and bedroom
Follow up with some rent/apartment issues
Drop off Blockbuster tapes
Car wash
Groceries??
Be ready by 5:45 p.m. to go out to dinner with Rob, Kate and the rest of the gang @ 6:30 p.m.

What are you doing this weekend?

DC Restaurant Week: Lavandou

2009-02-20T19:21:00.001-08:00

Tonight Bill and I decided to take advantage of DC's Restaurant Week. I always seem to find out about these events at the last minute - so I was happy I knew about this a little in advance so we could pick the perfect place to go: Lavandou in Cleveland Park.

Lavandou was such a cozy little place with nice atmosphere. It was small but filled and reminded me of my nights waiting tables in college at the small Italian restaurant in town.

I started off with the Frisée Salad topped with Warm Goat Cheese.

This salad was not what I expected and mainly because I didn't have Google to look up what "Frisee" meant. The goat cheese was very rich, and I ended up splitting it with Bill.

For my entree, I went with Grilled Salmon, Dill Sauce, Vegetable Julienne.

The portions would be considered "small" by many, but they were the perfect amount for me. I have been starving all week and though I could have eaten much more, I'm glad they were small and kept me at a comfortable full feeling - rather than completely stuffed.

For dessert, I decided to have the Apple Tart.

Another great choice. Very sweet - but light and almost refreshing after the meal was finished.

Although we spent a lot on dinner tonight (much more than our usual Panera), I was happy that Bill and I went out - especially since we didn't on Valentine's Day. We were at the restaurant for over two overs and had really great conversation. It's nice to just talk to Bill without the interruptions of homework, the TV or work-related items.

Blogger Meet-Up

I got such an overwhelming response from this morning's blogger meet-up post. It's so great to hear from some of you that don't have time to comment - I would love so much to meet you! It turns out that Anna from Meals from the Girl in the Little Black Dress and Quinn from Daily Moderation have already planned a little get together in DC. I missed the initial post due to my trip in Chicago, so if you're interested in the DC blogger meet-up - visit this post.

I thought maybe the Baltimore folks would still want to get together in Bmore, so if you do - feel free to shoot me an email at onalobsterplacemat AT gmail DOT com, and we can discuss further.

Time for Burn After Reading. Night all!

Baltimore/DC Blogger Meetup?

2009-02-20T06:10:00.000-08:00

I was running super late this morning, so I didn't have time to post my blah-boring bowl of Good Friends cereal with skim milk. I'm 99% sure I'll be hungry by 10 a.m. I need to start walking up earlier!!!

In lieu of the exciting oatmeal post I had wanted to share (I have a horned melon in the crisper), I wanted to ask a random question about a potential blogger meet-up!

1) How many of you live in Baltimore and would want to meet up?
2) How many of you live in DC and would want to meet up?

I spend most of my time in both places so I'm thinking about finally organizing not one - but two meet-ups. Let me know!

You can also email me at onalobsterplacemat@gmail.com if you want to discuss one-on-one.

Product Review: Diet Dr. Pepper and Kettle Chips

2009-02-19T19:08:00.000-08:00

Tonight I'm interrupting my usual dinner post to do something a little different: a video product review!

I was the lucky winner of a free bag of Kettle Chips from Off Her Cork's first blog contest, and I also received a free 2-liter bottle of Diet Dr. Pepper after seeing a link on Hangry Pants a few weeks back.

I actually brought the video camera home from work tonight to practice for an interview I have tomorrow and thought - why not use my practice for the blog? I decided to do a one-on-one interview with Boyfriend Bill, who was more than happy to help the camera-shy me.

Enjoy! And if you don't have time to watch all three minutes, at least scroll to the end to see a mini meltdown by me.

Good Friends, All Around

2009-02-19T05:04:00.001-08:00

I stayed up much too late last night reading Ann Patchett's Truth & Beauty. I just needed to finish it, and when I did - my heart was so heavy, almost sort of aching. I guess I didn't expect the ending to happen like that.

For those of you who've read Truth & Beauty, I would recommend that you also read Autobiography of a Face. I think reading these books one after another really aided in my understanding of this relationship. I personally think you should read Lucy's book first.

I wasn't the only one all wrapped up in this friendship:

Scone indulged in little "reading" himself last night while I watched Top Chef (speaking of which - who has thoughts?! I am upset!)

Breakfast this morning was simple and featured one of my favorite cereals of past - and it fit in quite well with the reading I've been doing:

I used to eat this stuff all the time. I really wanted to be on the cover instead of these people. Knowing cereal doesn't feel me up like oatmeal, I decided to use it as an add-in.

This bowl of oatmeal was really good because it was just so simple. Sometimes I forget that I don't need to be ultra creative every day for something to just taste really good.

Have you ever eaten this cereal? What did you think?

On the subject of friendship: What qualities do your best friend/s have that you admire/enjoy? Why is he/she a best friend to you?

My best friends really care about people, and I admire their quest to fulfill the needs of others. A lot of people would give up or would think it was too hard - but not Cat or Kelly.

Two of my lifelong friends, Katie and Leanna, have dedication that is so inspiring to me. They never give up, and I wish I could have constant dedication like that. They are such hard workers.

Quick and Easy + Teeth Whitening?

2009-02-18T16:47:00.001-08:00

Hey friends! Tonight's post has got to be short n' sweet. I have a paper due tomorrow that's still not finished plus 100 pages + of reading to do. Yikes. Sometimes I am such a procrastinator.

After work, I went to the gym and worked it out on both the elliptical and treadmill. I did 10 minutes of ellipiticizing, followed by a 36-minute treadmill run. I got three miles in, and my legs felt like bricks the entire time. I'm really not so sure about this half marathon in May. I feel so far from the goal. Not sure how many calories I burned tonight as I forget my HRM at home (speaking of running - be sure to check out Caitlin's recent blog post about the importance of wearing a Road ID).

Dinner was quick and easy:

The sweet potatoes were fantastic, tons of different spices including salt, pepper, garlic powder, seasoning salt and parsley.

Plus some hearty broccoli cooked a la microwave.

And my favorite - chicken patty on whole wheat bread with lettuce and cheese.

I had a very happy mouth and stomach due to this plate full:

For dessert I had two pieces of dove chocolate and now I'm sipping on coffee - which I shouldn't do, but I totally need the energy.

This leads me to my question of the night:

I drink coffee. A lot. 12 ounces a day or more. And because of that, I can see that my teeth have started yellowing. Any tips on whitening up? What tooth-whitening agents have you tried?

Day 3 of Lunch Rehab: Leftovers + A Product Review

2009-02-18T09:51:00.001-08:00

I guess I never “officially” put the word out there that I’m in the midst of a Lunch Rehab week. It’s more than just lunch, it really stretches beyond into other meals throughout my day, but I’m just trying to get back to basics with fruits and vegetables (a Crap-Free Week like others have been doing). Looking through former posts, I began noticing that lunch was an issue for me. I tossed whatever (if anything) into a bag and hurriedly ate it while working. I decided to give cooking and eating slowly a chance this week, and I’m doing ok.

Today was focused all on leftovers. As part of my lunch rehab plan, my goal is not only to cook my lunch each day – but to make sure and eat my leftovers.

I took my salad from Monday and transformed it into a messy sandwich. This was certainly harder to eat than a traditional sandwich with meat, lettuce and cheese, but I’d say this was more enjoyable because of the crunch factor.

Plus the rest of my salad from Tuesday that I simply adore.

This was one of the first times in a while that I was actually looking forward to leftovers. Now I hope they keep me throughout the afternoon.

Product Review: Mrs. May’s Almond Crunch

By now you’ve probably figured out that I’m not one for product reviews. I like reading them, I like writing them up when I receive a product in the mail, but I generally choose to write about other things instead. I guess I have just waiting to try the right product and be inspired.

…. and today I was! by Mrs. May’s Naturals

I got this bag as a gift from a foodie friend and snacked on it this morning around 11 a.m. I didn’t intend on writing a review, so I didn’t actually get a picture of the crunch itself – sorry – but I am writing to say that this is a wonderful and healthy treat. Check out the nutrition facts:

There are few ingredients, but the flavor is incredible. I was also thrilled with how low the calories were. And this mix really fills you up. The texture, however, can be a bit hard. I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone who has sensitive teeth.

I noticed you can buy a bag of almond crunch for $1.69. I assume it’s in your local Whole Foods for maybe cheaper (?), but even at $1.69 online – that’s not a bad price. It’s certainly worth checking out.

Blueberry Banana Oatmeal Smoothie

2009-02-18T05:02:00.001-08:00

Since winning the Vita-Mix 5200 from an Eating Bender contest, I have been terrified to use it. I don't know what my problem was. I guess I made that bean dip and the blender was super loud, and I thought I was breaking it. Either way, I decided to get over my fears this morning.

Lately I've been rushing to get it all done in the mornings, and my oatmeal-eating been lacking. Because the oats are too hot, I don't have enough time to finish a bowl. So I figured hey, a smoothie might be a better way to go today - let's experiment.

In the mix:

1 banana
1/4 cup blueberries
1 tbsp. PB
1/3 cup oats
milk
ice

I blended for about a minute and came up with this:

Now my question is: why was I so scared to use this blender? I whipped this up in about one minute, and even Scone wasn't scared (though he's still fascinated by the sounds in the kitchen).

Do you like blended drinks?

Reading, Writing and Tofu Tuesday

2009-02-17T19:07:00.001-08:00

I had planned on going to the gym right after work, but my new veggie-filled life made me quite the hangry girl by 5 p.m. I texted Bill, asked if he could cook something up for Tofu Tuesday and he willingly obliged. It's so nice to have someone cook for you.

I think patience really is the key when cooking tofu. I am never patient enough to stand there and watch the tofu cook. I talked to Bill while he flipped tofu and watched how he just let it cook until it was ready. This is a skill I'm dying to steal.

We lay the tofu on a bed of whole wheat couscous and broiled asparagus. I'm not sure how he cooked the tofu but I know it involved sesame oil and soy sauce. Those are two items in which you can never go wrong.

Tonight has been filled with reading and writing for my Thursday class. I am completely behind on my reading, and I have a memoir piece due on Thursday in which I only have two pages written. I can tell I've been writing tonight because this post is much more prose-like than normal.

Bill and I went to the gym together around 8:30 p.m. tonight and I burned 300 calories on the elliptical while reading Truth and Beauty by Ann Patchett. I love this book. I recommend you all putting it on your reading list soon.

Speaking of creativity, do you consider yourself a writer? An avid reader? What type of work do you enjoy? Memoir? Poetry? Fiction? Journalistic writing? Let me know!

Day 2 of Lunch Rehab: A Funky Veg Salad

2009-02-17T09:35:00.001-08:00

First – a welcome to any and all new readers! I appreciate you stopping by to see what’s on my placemat. I have successfully added most of you to my Google Reader + Blog list, so hopefully I can start learning more about you too! Thanks again for commenting.

Second – I was so excited to eat lunch today!

Lunch packed a veggie-filled punch as I made this funky and fresh salad. I had fun last night just seeing what in the fridge and deciding what to toss together. Check out my mix:

Edamame
Chickpeas
Cucumbers
Carrots
Peppers
Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning, Parsley
2 tsp. Olive Oil

I have decided that my life is not spicy enough.

I cut and peeled and mixed these ingredients together and within 20 minutes I had a nice vegetable salad to bring with me to work today:

The carrots were a little hard to eat because of their shape – next time I’ll slice ‘em. Oh, and I can’t forget that today was my first blogger experience with a flat-out wrap!

I have had these before, but it was literally years ago. I was happy to try them again! I can’t believe how low in calories these wraps are! Plus, I also ate the other half of my orange from this morning’s breakfast:

I’m not sure who I’m becoming with all these fruits and veggies, but I am certainly loving it.

Lunch Link!

For the Love of Oats has really been helping me get through the week and reminding me to learn how to love myself! So far her posts have been about breathing and invoking joy, and I have found both very useful! She definitely deserves a shout-out for being ultra-inspirational this week.

I also found this article last week and never had time to post it. In, “Add Nuts to Your Diet with Sauces, Not Snacks,” The New York Times suggests eating nuts in spreads – rather than as a snack – to ensure you don’t eat too many. I like the sounds of that.

Question: How do you eat nuts? Snack or spread?

Clockwork Orange Oatmeal

2009-02-17T04:54:00.001-08:00

I have never seen A Clockwork Orange, but I'm pretty sure I accidentally made one out of my oatmeal this morning.

I was trying to do something fun with the inside and outside of an orange when I decided to line the bowl with blueberries. Bam, an idea was born, and I included 12 perfect blueberries to represent a clock. (I wonder if it matters that I never saw this movie?)

Clockwork: 12 p.m.

Clockwork: 6 p.m.

Clockwork: Orange

And for posterity, a lobster placemat pic:

As much as I love my lobster placemat, I think it's detracting from my photos - and not detracting in a bad way on the blog but more detracting from photos when I want to use them elsewhere. (How many times could I possibly say detracting?)

Question: Have you ever seen A Clockwork Orange? Isn't it a book and movie? Isn't it scary? What's the deal, and why haven't I seen this movie? (Ok, maybe you can't answer the last one....)

Grilled Polenta with Whole Wheat Couscous, White Beans, Spinach and Capers

2009-02-16T14:35:00.001-08:00

I know what you’re thinking - “Doesn’t Rose normally have class on Monday nights?” Well, yes, I do – and “Normally doesn’t Rose work until 7 p.m.?” Yes, I do and am – but in keeping with my own “Crap-Free Week” goals I decided to take a simple five minutes to quickly post a delicious dinner I made yesterday to bring with me tonight. I am so proud to have proud a non-sandwich or soup item!

I present you with: Grilled Polenta with Whole Wheat Couscous, White Beans, Spinach and Capers

I wish Tupperware could be more stylish. I am definitely missing my fantastic plates and bowls from home. But a working/school girl has to do what she has to do.

Ingredients

2 tsp. olive oil
garlic, to taste
1 can of white beans
3 cups of spinach
2 tsp capers
salt, pepper
garlic pepper, Italian seasonings
ready-to-cook polenta (or you could make your own)
whole wheat couscous (I used Harris Teeter brand)

Directions

I heated olive oil and garlic in a pan and then sautéed the spinach until wilted. After draining and rinsing the white beans, I added them to the mix along with the additional spices and capers. Meanwhile, I got started on my 5-minute couscous. I added the couscous to the spinach/white beans once it was finished. Because I wasn’t eating this dinner until the next day, I removed the spinach and white bean mixture from the pan. I then cooked the polenta separately and added it to the top of my containers when finished.

The results? This tasted pretty good! I love capers in just about anything. It was a bit oily – so I probably could have cut back a bit on the olive oil. This was a really nice dinner before a long night of class.

Oh, Mondays: What was the best (or worst) thing that happened to you today?

The best thing was the food I ate. The worst is something I can’t share, but don’t worry – it’s nothing too bad. Just my paranoid overactive brain :)

Day 1 of Lunch Rehab: Kath’s Salmon Salad

2009-02-16T09:29:00.001-08:00

My lobster placemat was happy to see my Kath-inspired lunch today.

That’s right. I finally whipped up Kath’s favorite salmon salad recipe. I have been ~~drooling over~~ eyeing this up for months now. Knowing I wanted to focus on fruits and vegetables this week, I thought this would be the perfect recipe to try to get me out of my canned-soup rut.

After our Sunday grocery trip, I got all of my ingredients together.

I made a double batch so I could have enough for two lunches. I also substituted fat free mayo for the reduced fat version. I don’t remember the last time I ate or had a bottle of Spicy Mustard.

I was pretty stoked to peel some carrots because 1) I haven’t bought non-baby carrots in forever and 2) I love my handy palm peeler.

You wear it like a ring. Function and pretty!

I tossed all of the ingredients together in the bowl and came up with this:

And now an obligatory close-up shot:

Final thoughts: I knew I’d love this recipe, and I did! Eating lunch took much longer than usual due to the crunch of this salad. It was nice to eat a little slower – rather than devouring food in liquid form. I was also happy that I brought a few crackers with me. Although I want to cut back on carbs, I certainly can’t cut them out. So eating this salad on a cracker was sort of nice.

Great job on this recipe, Kath, and thanks for sharing it with the blogging community!

Question: What’s your favorite type of salad?

Apricot Berry Oatmeal

2009-02-16T05:07:00.001-08:00

Today's bowl of oatmeal featured a fruit never-before-seen on a morning episode of OALP.

That's right - the ever elusive, ever-hard-to-find APRICOT!

Thanks to Harris Teeter (my new favorite store), I might be hooked on this little fruit. I think the apricot bonded quite well with its OALP surroundings.

It was expected that its colorful nature would most certainly make it a showstopper.

Welcome to the gang, Apricot!

How often do you eat apricots? Do you have a favorite apricot-related recipe?

Andy's Going-Away Party / Amy's Birthday / Oh yeah, and Valentine's Day

2009-02-15T17:14:00.001-08:00

As you can see, I did not have the typical Valentine's Day after I returned from my Chicago trip - but it was all for the better! Bill and I aren't big on V-day, seeing as how every day is a love day for us both.

But Bill did get me some nice gifts - one being that he hung some shelves up on our living room wall (something he's been meaning to do, oh, since we moved here in June), and he also wrote me a really sweet letter that I can't share on the blog world :) There is one entry I can share though:

We should sit at the dining room table more often

I couldn't agree more!

We got to our friends' house around 7 p.m. and spent the night surrounded by such wonderful friends. I loved every minute of it! Plus we had some good food and good fun!

I was more than happy to start the night off with a glass of vino.

And then we all devoured the spinach artichoke dip that the lovely Ms. Kate made up.

....followed by the most amazing dinner cooked by Amy and Brian. I was so excited to eat something healthy after my trip to Chicago!

Bill and Andy dig in while Kate sips on some wine.

One of my favorite photos for the night. Is Brian pouring wine into his ear? I think so!

We sat around the table for a while after dinner telling fun stories about the first concerts we had ever gone to, the best concerts we'd ever gone to, and our first album purchases.

Mine, which I was embarrassed to say include:

Kenney Chesney, though in hindsight I think it was actually Reba McIntyre
Daniel Johnston
Ace of Base - I Saw the Sign!

This is probably a picture of everyone making fun of me. Though since they are not looking in my direction, I am probably just paranoid :)

Now it's time for my favorite part of the post: Embarrassing photos my friend Rob. How does one quickly go from this:

to this?

I don't know, but it was Valentine's Day. So he can show his love however he wants!

Then it was time for some belated birthday action for Amy. Here she is blowing out her candles....

...of one of the best cakes I have seriously ever eaten. Well worth the calories.

The night progressed into serious conversations at the table and sleeping....

... to a Dance Dance Revolution party!

Check out 11 seconds of my sweet moves, if you dare!

A fantastic night! Too much wine was drunk on my behalf, and I got pretty tired - so we hit the road around 1 a.m. It was sad to say goodbye to Andy who will be leaving for a month, but hopefully he will come back to the city - unless the road takes him elsewhere.

This morning I woke craving nothing but toast and water. Bill obliged with some PB & J for me. Isn't he sweet?

Then I couldn't find Scone, and where was he? Oh yeah, in the shower.

He's still so cute. I don't even care!

My day basically consisted of lounging on the couch watching episodes of 30 Rock and the Office followed by a massive grocery run to Harris Teeter.

We got these fruits and veg......

.... and other essential items.....

.... and all for $150, which is pretty good I think. We got a TON of food that we desperately needed.

Including this little lunch I got at the deli that cost me a total of $3. Stellar deal!

This wrap was stuffed with some mighty fine tuna!

I cooked up a storm when we got home, making lunches to be featured later this week on the blog. I am about to embark on a Crap-Free sort of week that other bloggers have been doing. I have been eating terribly, haven't exercised in much too long - and I'm ready to get on with it! I was so proud that I made lunches for at least 3 days this week! I am so on top of my game. For once!

I just reviewed the homework I need to do for the week - and realized I have to read a book and write an essay for my Thursday class. Yikes! I am so behind. Time to catch up!

Goodnight ya'all!

How was your V-day?

Chicago Recap + Blogger Dinner Meetup!

2009-02-15T16:38:00.001-08:00

I'm baaaaaack! Did you guys miss me? Cause I missed you! I was going out of my mind without internet access. I couldn't blog or read blogs - or even check email! Wow, I have a lot to recap in this post seeing as how I've been gone since Wednesday!

SURPRISE! BE SURE TO SCROLL THROUGH THIS POST TO SEE PHOTOS OF A BLOGGER MEETUP!

WEDNESDAY: En route to Chicago from Bmore

My flight left around 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, so I skipped out of work around 2 p.m. and headed to the airport. I could tell I was already on vacation mode because (while walking to my gate), I saw a huge sign for milkshakes at Potbelly. I haven't had a milkshake in ages, I was hungry and I knew we wouldn't be eating dinner for a while - so I splurged and bought one right away. Here's my oreo shake, complete with cookies!

Our flight went from Baltimore to Detroit, where we had a one-hour layover. However, when we got there - we discovered out flight had been canceled, and we couldn't get on another one for several hours. We were starving, so we all decided to get a quick bite at Chili's. I ordered a "Guilt-free Chicken Salad" - clearly I was feeling guilty after the shake! It wasn't the best salad in the world, but I was hungry - so it didn't matter.

We finally got to our hotel around 11:30 p.m., and we were all dead. We got to sleep early, knowing we had to get up around 6 a.m. the next day for the conference. Plus we weren't used to the change in time zones!

THURSDAY: First day of the AWP 2009 Conference

The hotel we were staying at was about a mile away from the conference site, which was good because it added built-in exercise to our trip. We got up nice and early, showered up and hit the road to get there in time to register. While walking, who did I see - but some Quaker reps handing out True Delights bars! These granola bars are EVERYWHERE now. I was so excited because I didn't pack snacks, so this was a nice treat!

For breakfast, we made a quick pit stop at Corner Bakery. I couldn't resist the loaded oatmeal. Delicious!

We got to the conference with enough time to (barely) register and get to our first sessions at 9 a.m. The panels each lasted an hour and fifteen minutes, and I had a booked day.

Check out my schedule:

9 a.m. - Fictionalizing Family
10:30 a.m. - First Books of Fiction
12 p.m. - Pitching Poetry as Citizens' Journalism: A New Approach to Festivals and Media
1:30 p.m. - The New-Media Novel: The Intersection of Film, E-Lit, & Story
3 p.m. - Is There Balm In Cyberspace? The Online Creative Writing Workshop

As you can see - I had a packed day. I went non-stop from 9 a.m. clear up until 4:15 p.m. Luckily, my friend Lindsey was nice enough to go out and buy us all some sandwiches for lunch. I didn't take a photo because there were a lot of writers around - and I didn't want to wind up in one of their stories as the loon taking photos of food!

Of all the panel discussions I went to, I think Fictionalizing Family was the best. This panel gave suggestions to writers who use family as a basis for their stories in terms of hurting or upsetting family members, properly portraying the truth versus fiction, etc. The moderator was on top of things.

I really enjoyed the other sessions as well - and learned a lot about different forms of teaching that I didn't know were happening.

I regrouped with the girls around 4:15 p.m., and we were all STARVING. We decided to go out Chicago style - and get some stuffed deep dish pizza at Giordano's!

I was a little sad to see the menu at Giordano's did not include any non-red sauce pizzas. I asked the waitress if I could have mine without sauce, and she was totally accommodating. They even put a nice little top crust on my Spinach/Mozzarella pizza.

Baked to perfection:

It was huge. I ended up having two slices and taking the rest home in a box:

After Giordano's, we were all pretty exhausted. It turns out non of us slept well the night before because of the HOWLING wind outside our hotel room. I only got about two hours of sleep, so we walked around the city a bit and then called it a night.

FRIDAY: Day 2 of AWP

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. We went to Corner Bakery again for breakfast where I got a nice Swiss Oatmeal cup.

My school had a table set up at the Bookfair at AWP, so I offered to sit and talk with people for an hour Friday morning. I was there from 9-10:15 a.m. and spoke with a lot of undergraduates thinking about pursuing an MFA.

Check out our crazy-messy-but-beautifully-quirky table display:

My program's motto: Play + Work = Plork

Catchy, no? Everything in life should be plorky!

My schedule was much more relaxed on Day 2 of the conference, mainly because I wanted to spend time walking through the Bookfair/Exhibition.

10:30 a.m. - Why Would You Say That?: Issues of Nonfiction and Fiction in Young Writers' Lives
12 p.m. - Digi-Analog: Bringing Together Print, Online, and Alternative Delivery Methods for Literary Journals
1:30 p.m. - LUNCH (no photos)
2-3 - Bookfair
3 - Celebrating the Vermont Studio Center: A 25th Anniversary Reading

I went to the "Celebrating the Vermont Studio Center" to see one of my favorite authors, Amy Hempel, read some of her work. She ended up not being there - so I skipped out of the session early. I had some important plans at 4 p.m..............

A BLOGGER DINNER MEETUP! with:

Jenn from Eating Bender, Mara from What's for Dinner? and another foodie friend!

Jenn, me and Mara

You might have read about it here or here already, but here's my spin on the evening!

We all met up at Thai Spoon and Sushi, a convenient little restaurant close to my conference site. The girls were nice enough to drive in and meet me - and I am so glad they did!

I ended up getting my favorite - Pad Thai with Tofu. It was delicious and so cost-friendly. This "small plate" was $5.50. I couldn't believe my eyes. Plus it was a good plate of thai - one of my favorites so far.

My photos are much blurrier than Jenn and Mara's - it must have been my darn camera! They have such schnazzy cameras - I was jealous!

We had such good conversation over dinner. I almost forgot to eat! We covered everything from food to blogs to boyfriends/significant others to the working world and all in between! I know I would definitely hang out with these ladies often if we all lived closer. They are so sweet, they even brought me some foodie presents! How nice is that?

We were at Thai Spoon & Sushi for about an hour and a half, and then Mara offered to drive me to meet up with the girls. They were almost finished with dinner when I got there - so I just chilled out. We then took a stroll through the Chicago streets and stopped at Garrett's, an amazing popcorn eatery - per Lindsey's suggestion. Check out this place:

This guy probably wondered what was up with me....

Can you believe that massive amount of popcorn?!?! I ended up getting a medium bag of "The Mix" - which was cheese and caramel. I had half the bag by the end of the next day! Yikes.

After our popcorn excursion, we headed back to the conference site to check out one of the readings featuring ZZ Packer, Joe Meno and Dorothy Allison. I honestly enjoyed them all.

While there I had a hankering from some soda. You'll never guess how much this fancy glass cost me.

Um. $4.50. Ridiculous!

The reading ended around 10ish and we then headed back to the hotel. We were leaving early Saturday morning and again - were exhausted by all the festivities!

SATURDAY MORNING: On the road again, en route to Bmore

For breakfast at the airport - I had a nice skim Starbucks Latte on ice.

And a raisin bran muffin

Later, I was running low on cash and resorted to McDonalds - Ugh. I ended up getting a grilled chicken sandwich and small fry that I was too guilty to take a photo of.

I arrived back in Washington around 5:30 p.m. and headed straight over to a friend's house for dinner. My friend is heading to New Orleans for a month to volunteer, so it was his going away party. I have tons of pictures (and a video), but I'm going to save it for another post later on tonight.

Hope you all had a good week! It's so good to be back :)

Shoooot - this post took me 45 minutes to write! Wow!

C-H-I-C-A-G-O

2009-02-11T07:32:00.001-08:00

I'm off to Chicago for AWP 2009 until Saturday!

I promise you an exciting recap this weekend, complete with some of Chicago's finest food/foodies.

And in the meantime, why don't you go over to Meghann's blog and enter to win a free sports bra? It has a pocket in the front. I'd say that's pretty nifty.

Cheerio, blog world.

Food Rut

2009-02-10T09:13:00.001-08:00

Hello. My name is Rose, and I’m in a food rut.

The thought of eating another can of Amy’s soup for lunch just about put me over the edge today. So what did I do? I bought some quick food at the sandwich shop in my building.

I’ve been trying to figure out how this food rut started and why I’ve let it go on for so long. I’m blaming February. Like last year, this February just isn’t good for me. And here’s why:

The “water weight” I thought I gained at Christmas has become actual weight gain. I am still up five pounds from where I was two months ago.
I have been sick. And being sick has put a huge halt in my exercise abilities for the past week and a half.
School has started. Again it’s as if I have no time.
It’s February. A month of doom and gloom. So close to spring, but we’re still in winter.

Have you been in a food rut? How did you snap yourself out of it? I think we better make a list right here and now.

Just for Fun

On a non-food related note, I just received an email from Toyota about this little gem of the future. Electric cars? Closer than we think.

Crazy, Busy, Blah – but a Valentine surprise!

2009-02-10T06:11:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was a crazy busy day. I just didn’t feel like blogging at 11:30 p.m. when I got home from class. And I had a lot on my mind – and just wanted to talk to Bill / play with my Cat.

I was totally stoked for my oatmeal pictures yesterday! But lately I have been so rushed in the morning – I don’t know what the deal is. I have not been back on my game since I’ve been sick.

A tribal symbol?

While I was taking photos of my oatmeal, someone got curious and came over.

I love him – and taking photos of him and putting them on the blog.

The morning rushed on through as I had two back-to-back meetings at work. At one of them – we had pizza, but since I am still weird on the red sauce I decided to wait and eat the taco salad I brought from home.

Eh, a little blurry. Sorry about that!

My busy day continued at my desk. I didn’t leave the office until sometime after 6 for my class, so I had a can of Amy’s Soup before I left. I also packed a sandwich that I never ate – I just wasn’t hungry for some reason.

Class was good, but the night was long. We had to bring in experimental writing we had done over the past week. I am so not used to focusing on words so much. I know I’m a writer, and that’s what I do – but as a fiction writer I become so immersed in plot that I fail to just have fun with words and riff on and on.

When I got home, I had a lovely Valentine’s Blogger Exchange surprise waiting for me!!!!

An Edible Arrangement from Ms. VeggieGirl!!!

And inside!

Talk about divine!

I’m not going to lie. I was starving when I got home and had not only a strawberry but also a slice of apple! They were so so good. Thank you so much, VeggieGirl!! Do you think these will keep in the fridge? I’m going away for a few days, and I don’t think I can (or should) eat them all in one sitting tonight!

Today’s bowl of oatmeal was sort of boring. Again, I was running late because I stayed up so late talking to Bill. I just had a basic bowl with pecans and PB.

Ah!! I am totally stressing out about my upcoming trip. Tonight I need to:

go to Target
go for a run
do laundry
PACK, PACK, PACK

Any advice on things on packing for a three-day trip? I am sure I’ll forget something. Feel free to leave a comment with some reminders of what I’m sure to miss!

No camera cord!

2009-02-09T06:26:00.000-08:00

I took some lovely photos of oatmeal this morning and was pretty excited to share them with you - but I accidentally forgot my camera cord at home. I normally post at home but was in a rush today - and obviously forgot the cord.

Expect a full recap tonight, I hope. Assuming I'm not too tired from class.

Another Pennsylvania Weekend

2009-02-08T18:10:00.001-08:00

Is it really 9 p.m. on Sunday night? Did the weekend have to move so quickly? I can't believe it's back to work in the morning, back to my killer Monday schedule (with class until 10:45 p.m.). Ugh! I need another day.

I guess feeling this way only means that I had an amazing weekend. Yep, a.m.a.z.i.n.g.

I didn't take many food photos over the weekend. Bill and I went up to visit the family (new baby included!) in Pennsylvania followed by a show at a bar in our old college town. I did snap a few good ones at the bar the night of the show:

You know how Bill rolls. He rocks the harmonica like nobody's bizness. I am so proud of him!

We got home today around 3 p.m., and I've been working on homework + lounging. Bill's out at dinner with some of his professors (they are interviewing someone for a job at his school), so I'm hanging solo. I was actually really happy about this because I was finally able to cook up some of those Morning Star Crumbles - Bill hates 'em, so I thought this was a perfect opportunity to make up some taco delight.

I wrapped it up after the photo was taken, but that turned out to be a bad idea. The wraps I bought don't hold together well - so I ended up eating it with a fork and knife anyway.

I am still pretty tired from last night's late night activities. I'm so happy I went - I got to hang with my stepbrother and sister-in-law, so numerous new and old friends, connected with BFF Cat for a little while - an all around good social time.

This week is special because I'm headed to Chicago on Wednesday for the AWP Annual Conference. I'm so scared and nervous and excited. I need to buy things and pack. I'm so behind! Tuesday will be a massive organizational night.

Have you ever been to Chicago? What did you think of it?

PS: Super big thanks to everyone who supported me in my confession post. It meant so much to read your opinions and thoughts on the idea of "lazy nights." I certainly appreciate it!

Lunch Confessional

2009-02-06T09:36:00.001-08:00

I have a confession to make. You know how last night I went to bed early and didn’t blog? Well, 1) Yes, I was very tired and tucked myself in early and 2) I was embarrassed to post my dinner photos. Yes, you heard me right. Embarrassed.

This is ironic because my lunch photos from today are technically leftovers from my Pad Thai attack last night.

Why would I be embarrassed? It’s just food, right? It’s not like I ate an 17 cakes in one sitting or five gallons of ice cream. In fact, what I did have for dinner wasn’t really that bad at all – it was more my mentality toward the Pad Thai in general. Let’s replay a conversation from last night, shall we?

Me: I don’t feel like cooking. But I should really save money and make something healthy, like that tofu in the fridge. I’ve been eating horribly lately.
Bill: Whatever you want to do is fine with me. I’m not starving or anything.
Me: Meh. I don’t feel like cooking. Maybe we should go to Panera. Ah, never mind, you’re not feeling good.
Bill: Not really (This back and forth exchange happened more than once about debating whether to go to Panera)
Me: Maybe we should order in. I’ll order in if you pay for it.
Bill: I always pay for take-out.
Me: OK. I’ll order the food and pay for it. But I should really cook that tofu.

Observations

One can make several observations from this dialogue exchange.

1) Bill had little to do with our decision to get take-out.

2) I was clearly just being lazy.

3) My laziness was so extreme that I didn’t even want to pay for the food or even offer to pay half (who’s the one in graduate school full-time?)

4) I have come to rely to heavily on Panera Bread and other food-made-on-the-flash establishments.

Let’s Set Things Straight

Before this post makes anyone think otherwise, let me set a few things straight. I did not (nor do I now) feel guilty about eating Pad Thai. It was food, and it was good. What I do feel guilty about is feeling embarrassed about what I ate – so embarrassed that I didn’t want to share it on my healthy-living food blog (what kind of blogger am I?). I think that, in combination with my week-of-sickness-lack-of-exercise-lack-of-good-cooking just made me feel all down in the dumps about the entire night. But to me – it’s no excuse. Why was I so hesitant to share it? Was I afraid of what you’d think about me? I think deep down the answer is yes.

Lessons Learned

1) I’m not going to eat perfectly all the time.

2) I’m not going to have the motivation to cook something wonderful every night, especially after working and going to class.

3) Sometimes I am going to think spending $20 on food and waiting for it to be delivered is somehow more time-saving and economical than cooking.

4) When I am sick, I should not be at the gym. End of subject.

5) People reading this blog have the ability to judge me based on what I eat. I am putting this out there for the world to see, and I have to be OK with that.

Phew. That felt good.

Blogspiration Oatmeal

2009-02-06T05:16:00.001-08:00

Today's bowl of oatmeal reminded me once again why I love playing with my food.

It's creative! It's fun! It's like building a puzzle and trying to figure out where the pieces go.

Today's oatmeal included the most perfect combination: milk, oats, water, banana, cinnamon, plum slices and blueberries. I haven't eaten a plum in months. It was simply delish.

Ah! In writing this post, I think I am back to my old self after being sick. I guess that 9 hours + of sleeping last night did the trick. I feel renewed again!

In thinking about writing this blog entry, a question sparked that I wanted to ask all of you:

How would you describe your own food blog in one sentence? Or a few words?

Sooo sleepy!

2009-02-05T18:17:00.000-08:00

Hey all - I am hitting the hay super early tonight in order to finally ward off the end of this sickness. I am OH SO READY to get back on the good sleep/good eats/workout train, so I want to rest up for tomorrow. I am feeling just major yuck all over!

But first, some news! The random integrator generator has spoken and the following two bloggers will be interviewed by me soon!

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

6 16

Get ready, Lee and Mel!

Raspberry Peach Oatmeal

2009-02-05T04:58:00.001-08:00

I thought this bowl of oatmeal would be rather beautiful - but it turned out to be a big mess. I'm not sure what kind of theme I was going for.

Wheat Germ will do that to a bowl. But even though my fruit was a little disheveled, the taste was still super good. I guess this is a nice reminder that looks don't matter.

Look at Mr. Peach, ready to start the day off on the right foot. I wish I could be as excited as him for this day to start, but I'm still a bit congested.

Is it too early to start thinking about the weekend? What are your plans?

I had hoped on meeting my niece Ava for the first time, but with this sickness - I'm not sure I should go near a new born.

In Other News

Be sure to stop by this post and check out my interview with Caitlin. Care to be interviewed yourself? Be sure to comment on that post!

Polenta + An Interview

2009-02-04T19:29:00.001-08:00

Dinner may look small, but I assure you that it's only mirroring my lack of an appetite:

I really don't feel like eating. I can't taste food. I don't have an appetite in the least. It's not a fun day for a foodie blogger. I will say that this polenta/mushroom/cheese mix did hit the very small empty spot I did have tonight.

I have a story due in my memoir class tomorrow - so tonight has been a mix of working on that (in a medicated state, which hasn't been easy). I am hoping that tomorrow is a much better day!

INTERVIEW

I was randomly chosen to be interviewed by the lovely Ms. Caitlin over at Healthy Tipping Point today. Here questions were so unique; I loved answering them! If you'd like to be the next person to be interviewed, leave a comment on this post by 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, and I will chose the next interviewee! Be sure to include an email address, if you can!

1. Describe the most perfect moment of your life thus far.
When Bill and I went to Charlottesville, Virginia, for vacation in 2008, we woke up to the most beautiful sunrise I have ever seen. We were on our way to hike Old Rag at Shenandoah, and we were driving with the sunrise. Nothing remarkable had really happened yet – except for the fact that I was awake and ready for a 13-mile hike. There was just something so beautiful about that moment - I felt completely at ease with my life. Here's a little visual stimulation:

2. If you played the lottery and won the $10 million jackpot, what would you do with the money?
Without creating a long and detailed list (which I would do if I actually did win $10 million), I will say this: most of my money would be spent on academia. I would pay off my school loans (and Bill's), pay for my mother and brothers to go to school, start a scholarship at my alma mater and ponder opening up a writing/bookmaking center. I would also buy a house with a porch, completely re-do my wardrobe and buy more than one pair of running shoes.

3. What's the lamest class you've ever taken? The best?The lamest class I ever took was a New Orleans seminar. The information was interesting and timely (due to Hurricane Katrina) but the professor was nearing 70 years old and made us dress up in costumes for our midterm.

The best class I've ever taken (in undergrad) was an independent study in which I worked on the writing I submitted when applying to graduate school. I think I really became a writer in that semester and learned how to tell a story in as few words as possible using flash fiction.

The best class I've ever taken (in graduate school) was Literary Publications. It opened the door to my love of art and creation, specifically bookmaking.

4. Describe your book making hobby for everyone and link a fun picture.
Bookmaking is a huge component in my MFA program as I'm earning a degree in Creative Writing & Publishing. As a student in this program, I've learned that writing is as important visually as it is contextually. Bookmaking allows you complete control over the way your writing is contained. It gives you the freedom to create a cover unique to a certain story or individual. It's like this: why would you buy apples if you had an apple tree? Why would I buy a journal for myself when I could make one that suited my perfectly?

My most elaborate project so far was my Swallow book – a microfiction cookbook comparing oatmeal to people in my life. Check it out!

Also, if you would like more detail about bookmaking (the nitty gritty stuff), let me know and I can certainly give you a tutorial either written or video.

5. What's your favorite workout and why? Your least favorite?
My favorite workout is a combination of cardio + strength training, more specifically: I like a good run (4.0 miles is a nice distance for me), followed by weight lifting. There is something so perfect about the combination. I feel ultimately stronger, especially after lifting.

My least favorite workout is yoga. It has nothing to do with the idea of yoga but more about the level of sweat. I feel best when I really break a sweat during a workout. I don't get that same feeling when I do yoga, though I do see the benefits. Maybe I just haven't fully jumped on the yoga train?

To play along:

1. Leave me a comment saying, "Interview me." If a few people want interviews, I will randomly pick 2.
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. (I get to pick the questions).
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview others in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.

SCONE PHOTO-OF-THE-NIGHT

Looks like my little kitty (who kept me in good company last night when I couldn't sleep) has found another fun place to relax: under my work station!

Sweet dreams all!

Facebook Turns 5?

2009-02-04T10:25:00.001-08:00

Eating lunch this afternoon was just downright painful. There is nothing worse than 1) not being able to breathe correctly and 2) not being able to breathe correctly while eating some Amy’s soup.

I am quite the fan of this Tuscan soup – even if I couldn’t really taste the flavors this time. I paired my soup with a deli-chicken wrap with spinach and Sabra hummus (I now understand all the cheer and praise for this brand!)

De.lic.ious. ! Not to be confused with delicious, which I just noticed finally changed their awful website name. Thank goodness they’ve gotten rid of all those periods; I could never remember how to spell it.

And speaking of other web 2.0ish types of things, did you know that Facebook Turned 5 today?

I remember a girl in my dorm talking about Facebook in Fall 2004. I didn’t really understand what she was saying – a picture of myself like a yearbook? What’s the point? One thing led to another and a few weeks later I found myself building a profile. Now it’s been five years, I have acquired close to 1,000 tagged photos (most of which I’m still embarrassed about), more than 700 friends (most of whom I never see in real life) and I’m learning the importance of using facebook and other social media at work (most of which has been useful).

Times are crazy.

This of course begs me to ask the question – when did you first join facebook and if you haven’t, what’s holding you back?

Barely There Oatmeal

2009-02-04T05:47:00.001-08:00

I'm finally going back to work after taking two days off sick. I'm not sure how much better I feel, but I know this oatmeal isn't hurting.

I bought so many "supplies" for oatmeal making this week, and I'm afraid they're all spoiling in the refrigerator. Hopefully I'll be able to use my peaches and plums by the end of the week.

I'm so happy to have raspberries on this snowy day. Something bright to cheer me up (while I cough uncontrollably).

I think I'm still a little groggy from a very sleepless night + medication. What have I missed in the blog world? What's going on in your life?

Immune System: Majorly Down

2009-02-02T13:52:00.001-08:00

My immune system is down this winter! More proof that I should have gotten a flu shot. I stayed home sick from work today and have been lounging on the couch, trying to breathe properly. I am so congested, and I have a terrible cough that won't quit. I'm hoping this eases up throughout the night. I HATE being sick.

The last thing I've felt like doing is eating, but I decided it would be best for me if I gave it a go. Around 11 a.m., I made myself some basic oats with a cup of tea and orange juice. I have really been pounding the liquids today.

After several hours of doing nothing, I then had lunch (again not really hungry at all). I made myself a wrap on the foreman. When I'm sick like this - soup helps, but I also almost like when something rougher goes down my throat. It feels like it opens it up a bit more.

I am reading Autobiography of a Face for my Memoir class. I thought today would be a good day to get the bulk of my reading done for Thursday - though I will admit that I was falling asleep off and own throughout the entire reading session.

Blahhh...

Sorry this post is so lame. I am just not feeling creative or at all alive at the moment. Hopefully I'll catch you tomorrow in better spirits.

How is/was your Monday?

Birthday Weekend Recap

2009-02-01T17:18:00.001-08:00

Hey friends! I had a great time hanging with my mom on her birthday yesterday, but the bad news is that now I'm definitely SICK with a cold and sore throat. I don't know how I caught it, but I did - and I'm feeling a bit miserable tonight. I've been drinking tea/taking meds and have had some relief but not much. Boo to being sick on a beautiful day! I've been stuck inside under a blanket :(

Ok... so now it's time to rewind a little bit through the weekend!

FRIDAY

I was in a fun mood on Friday and wanted to go out on the town. Bill and I haven't been out to dinner in a long time, so we found a random place online and decided to go for it. My "suburb mentality" was in swing so we stuck with Oro Pomodoro in Rockville, MD, so I didn't have to drive/metro into the city :) (I'm so old!)

I started the night off with a glass of wine. (It was a long week.)

My meal also came with a Caesar salad. It was good!

I can't eat tomato sauce, so it was slim pick'ns in this Italian restaurant. I decided to get the salmon on a bed of spinach with some plain pasta on the side.

I ate almost this entire fillet and the spinach, but I ended up giving my pasta to Bill. I could tell that it had come from a box, so why eat it? Especially because I wasn't hungry after eating the fillet. I like my calories to count if I'm going out :)

The rest of the night involved tons of baking and bookmaking for my mom's birthday. Then we watched Pineapple Express and called it a night around 1 a.m.

SATURDAY

I tried getting up early to go running on Saturday morning, but I totally slept through my alarm. I must have been really tired. I ended up having to rush to get ready and make the drive up to Pennsylvania for my mom's big birthday day. Every year, January 31 is a big deal. I think my mom and I have only spent her birthday apart maybe once, and I've been baking a cake for her every year since I was about eight years old or so. You know how traditions go :) I love this one!

I did end up making her a pretty book as a present:

I'll be posting more details on that over on Lobster Books, when I get a minute. She seemed to like it, which was good!

We got there around 3 p.m., and it ended up being a party! My grandparents were there and brought some snacks for the table.

My grandma made some stuffed mushrooms. I had a couple of these - they were good!

My stepfather made tacos for dinner, and I made mine into a salad. This is also something my mom and I have been doing for a couple of years now - we like to bulk up our tacos with lettuce. My mom also started putting balsamic dressing on her tacos, which I originally thought was a bit strange but it tastes SO GOOD. Don't knock it until you try it!

Not too pretty but tacos are supposed to be messy!

After dinner, it was soon time for some birthday cake! 4 + 8 = 48 years old. Isn't my mom so young??? I kept trying to tell her that!

There's a funny story about the cake. Mom sent me an email a few days ago saying she REALLY wanted banana cake. I checked online to see which store had the cake mix and the closest was about 25 miles away. I thought, ok, no problem - I'll just make one from scratch. But I was totally intimidated. I didn't want to mess anything up for the big day - so I stuck with chocolate on chocolate. And then, for fun - I made banana bread :)

... which ended up being a good thing, because my grandfather doesn't eat chocolate anymore.

I love this picture of my grandma and mother. Look how excited they are for the cake to be lit!

My mama with her cake! She looks a bit tired - but I think I took the picture late :)

And let me tell you what. That cake was GOOD. I kept the icing to a thin layer and was glad I did. I thought others might want more icing - but everyone seemed happy with the amount I used.

Delish.

And now an obligatory Three Generations picture - because I really wanted one :)

Do you think I look anything like my mom? She doesn't think so. If you saw my dad, you'd understand :) But I think we have some similar characteristics - height being a big one! We are all a bunch of shorties here, each standing about 5'0ish tall.

We spent the rest of the night hanging out, talking, watching Office Space and then crashing! It was a great time.

SUNDAY

We got up early to hit the road - around 8:30 a.m. or so, and I was pleasantly surprised to find my mom making us each a bowl of banana oats. How sweet is that!

Bill and I got back home around 1 p.m. and got back to the grind. We've been doing homework, went grocery shopping, a bit of laundry - all that boring Sunday stuff. Scone accompanied me while I worked on a reading response for Experimental Forms.

He didn't notice me at first.

Until the first picture was taken....

Now we're watching the Superbowl, and Bruce is on! I have been waiting for this all night, so I'm going to make the rest speedy!

For din din, I decided to go quick and easy with some sweet potato fries....

And a chicken patty delight!

GO STEELERS!

(I have to say that being from western PA... but I don't actually like football. Shame, shame, I know!)

How was your weekend???

Happy Birthday Mom!

2009-01-31T08:05:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

I was out last night and busy when I got home, so I didn't feel like blogging. And now I'm in a rush because I'm off to see my mom for her birthday. Needless to say, I'll be posting a full weekend recap on Sunday. Hope you all have a good weekend!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

Crowded Oatmeal

2009-01-30T04:48:00.001-08:00

I woke up starving this morning, so I decided to stick with the basics concerning my oatmeal. I have a quince in the fridge, but I'm going to save it for another oatmeal experiment :)

Nothing fills my stomach better than an all-nut variety of oatmeal. In this batch, I (of course) added those Quaker Oatmeal Squares. I swear those are going to be the end of me.

I'm trying to exert better portion control over my spoon of PB. Sometimes it's just like the PB jumps right on there without me knowing about it :)

You know, looking at this bowl sort of reminds me of my Inauguration experience. Everyone all on top each other, no room to breathe. See what I mean?

Are you OK in crowds? Or does the whole scene bother you?

I am, for the most part, pretty OK in a crowd. I end up getting more annoyed with other people's behavior than anything else. There's just no reason to push and scream; it doesn't solve anything.

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!

Live from Panera Bread!

2009-01-29T17:12:00.000-08:00

You guys all know how we've been rolling on Thursday nights lately. I don't know if it's because the weekend is so close or what - but we like going out for quick dinners on Thursday nights. I especially wanted to come to Panera because my work/class schedule has changed. I am now taking a class on Thursdays from 2-4:30 p.m., so I need to catch up on work-related things in the evening. I thought going to Panera would be a nice way to get away from the TV and distractions, though I will admit I'm missing Scone!

I had a big ole' salad for dinner: Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

I was really craving greens. I went to the gym after class and had a really great workout. I am in the midst of "fake-training" for a half-marathon. Crazy, I know? And by fake-training I mean - getting back into the swing of running on a regular schedule and determining my current pace.

Here were my stats today:

4.0 miles in 44:35 mins
Lifting - 20 minutes
Calories Burned: 555

My pace isn't great, and I know that. But the half-marathon isn't until May 3, so I think I have plenty of time to train and get my time back down to 10-minute miles.

If you're wondering how all of this half-marathon talk came up, it's because of my good friend Katie who's getting married in June and has been a runner for a long time. We both ran on the Cross Country team in high school and were both co-captains our senior year (along with good friend Leanna!). She has inspired me to take on this task - it's something she really wants to do, and I think it would be a nice bonding experience before her big day. We had a great conversation about it via phone last night, and she is really motivating me to try!

What do you all think about running great distances? Any advice for the scared and slow?

Lemonberry Oatmeal

2009-01-29T04:58:00.001-08:00

This may not look appealing to all of you, but I think lemon juice in oatmeal every so often does a body good.

The lemon walkway is surrounded by the sometimes-bitter blueberry clan. Should they stay, or should they go now?

That path is slippery when wet, and the blueberry friends aren't sure they want to make the trip. So they hang out on the side.

They don't see the point of journeying ahead - until a new element enters the picture.

Who wouldn't travel the path if it led to peanut butter?

What path have you traveled that's led to something wonderful?

And now for our Scone photo of the day..... I was going to resist doing this, but I found extra pictures of Scone on my camera from last night - and they are super cute! Boyfriend Bill took this photo last night while he was up studying. Looks like Scone is definitely a night owl.

Speedy Dinner Post

2009-01-28T18:36:00.001-08:00

Tonight has gone about as fast as my day as gone - I've been racing around the clock since 6 a.m. today with all the weather updates and additional tasks @ work.

After work, I debated on which gym to use (my membership, the gym @ work, or the gym @ the apt.) and decided on the apt. gym. I wanted to stay close to home because I am just plain sick of walking in sleet and ice. I ended up doing 45 minutes on the elliptical and burned 375 calories. Woo!

I texted Bill and asked if he'd cook dinner tonight. It turns out he made almost the same dish as last Wednesday night.

A nice chicken stir fry with mixed vegetables and whole wheat pasta. I guess this must be our "Wednesday Favorite."

Time for me to watch Lost + work on a project. More details about the project to come!

What was your favorite part about today?

Mammoth Bowl of Oats + More

2009-01-28T06:20:00.001-08:00

Looks like Scone wasn't the only one to fall asleep during Nip / Tuck last night.

I was right along there with him near his kitty bed and saw proof on my camera this morning! I've found this is what happens when you get a pet; you willingly give up your normal position on the couch to make sure they're comfortable. I love him!

I received a call at 6 a.m. that the university was opening at 10 a.m., so I updated the website and quickly jumped back in bed. I thought about going to the gym and getting my workout one in the morning, but it was FREEZING in our bedroom, and I only wanted under the covers. Plus isn't that how it's supposed to be on a delay day?

I had a mammoth bowl of oats this morning with three main fix'ins:

strawberries
blueberries
oatmeal squares cereal

I bought this Oatmeal Squares cereal on Sunday and now I'm hooked. So good.

Bill is out scraping my car for me so I can get to work - I better go assist. Catch ya later!

Loaded Pizza in Ice-Land

2009-01-27T18:27:00.001-08:00

Greetings from ice-land! It is slowly (but surely) icing up all over the DC/MD metro area. I can hear the ice hitting the window and see it covering the parking lot - it's looking to me like a delay or day off tomorrow! Fingers crossed :) The only bad part is that I'm the one to update the university website at work - so I'll be one of the people up at 5 a.m. to make the change. At least I'll know first :)

I totally wasn't in the mood for the gym after work today. I had been dealing with some computer issues at work and was just frustrated. I gave myself a good ole' pep talk on the way home and by 6 p.m. I was in the gym and on the treadmill.

STATS

Tina's 45-minute treadmill workout
Lifting - 20 minutes
Calories Burned: 499

I did my "jogging version" of Tina's workout and ended up burning less calories than normal - not sure why? I must have not been pushing myself as hard as the first time.

Loaded Pizza

We decided to have some loaded pizza for dinner tonight. Here were our toppings:

garlic, olive oil, spices
mozzarella cheese
marinated artichokes
spinach
fresh mushroom

Muy tasty.

I have just brewed myself up a hot chocolate in the Keurig and am about to settle in for some TV watching. I better enjoy it while I can - I have to read a book for Monday's class and should get to work - but I don't have the book yet. I think that calls for one last night of freedom :)

Question of the Night: How do you spend your weekday evenings ("school nights") ?

Product Review: Quaker True Delights

2009-01-27T10:03:00.001-08:00

As a participant in the Foodbuzz Tastemaker program, I get the opportunity to taste and write reviews of various products – some before they even come out. I must admit - I have never been big on product reviews in terms of actually writing them, so I thought singing up for the Foodbuzz Tastemaker program would be a good opportunity to highlight some different eats on the blog.

I got a special package in the mail yesterday from Foodbuzz, all wrapped up with a ribbon.

Some of my favorite bloggers had received a very similar package – so I knew what was inside. The new Quaker True Delights granola bars!

I received three varieties – two bars each:

Dark Chocolate Raspberry Almond
Honey Roasted Cashew Mixed Fruit
Toasted Coconut Banana Macadamia Nut

I decided that I would sample the DCRA as an “after-lunch treat.” Here’s what I saw after I opened the package:

I loved the flavor combination in this bar. On the first bite, I immediately tasted raspberry. As I kept eating, the chocolate (you can see the chunk in the middle) mixed well with the raspberry and created a unique, sweet taste. I do agree with Hangry Pants on this one: this chocolate isn’t fake and has a nice taste to it!

The nutritionals for the bar aren’t bad either:

Calories: 140
Total Fat: 4.5 grams
Sugars: 8 grams

The only downfall to this bar is that I felt the ingredients weren’t evenly distributed – and that’s not necessarily how all the bars are, but maybe just the one I received. I loved the meshing of chocolate + raspberry and wanted that throughout the bar-eating-experience, not only during the middle.

In regards to public relations (and I have to comment since I work in the field!), this Quaker True Delights website is really cute. Do yourself a favor and write in your true delight (just be sure to keep it short!). The result is something beautiful.

Snowfall Oats

2009-01-27T05:11:00.001-08:00

It's the first official snowfall in Maryland/Washington, DC. I say "official" because the snow is actually sticking to the ground.

I must say I am not a fan of winter. I think that's why trying to replicate the snowstorm outside in my oatmeal didn't work out so well. That and the fact that I have very few white ingredients in my house right now. But I tried!

Today's new ingredient (serving as snow) was Wheat Bran. I have had a bag in my pantry for months and never touched it. I thought I'd give it a whirl for something different.

The flaky appearance and texture of wheat bran is appealing to me. I think it's pretty in its own way. I also mixed in some blueberries with my oats, hence the darker oat bottom of the bowl.

Question: What's your favorite winter/snow activity? Any good memories of past?

When I was a kid, we used to sled ride down the road near my grandmother's house on runner sleds. We'd wax the blades to get them as sharp as possible, and one of us would be a look out at the end of the road to yell if there were cars. We would sled ride down that road for hours - especially at night. That was our favorite time to go. It was completely dangerous (we suffered a few injuries), but fun and it is one of my most vivid memories from childhood.

Flower for Monday Oatmeal

2009-01-26T05:05:00.001-08:00

I think every one of you deserves a flower on this Monday morning.

Mondays can be tough. The start of a new week. Getting back to work after a fun and relaxing weekend. Just that all-over "want-to-stay-in-bed" feeling. Why not receive flowers on Mondays? I'd be OK with that :)

And this flower is special - it's lying on a bed of strawberry-banana oatmeal. You couldn't make your Monday any better!

And speaking of Monday morning, I better get on with it and get myself to work. It's time for my SUPER LONG Monday. Catch you either @ lunch or @ breakfast tomorrow morning.

Question: How do you feel about Mondays?

I don't hate 'em. But I certainly don't love 'em. I have a regular meeting on Monday mornings, and that gets me right in the zone from the get-go, so that's good at least :)

My Harris Teeter

2009-01-25T17:33:00.001-08:00

Today has been a super busy day. I'm not even sure how it happened, but Bill and I were out shopping for nearly four hours today. We only had a few items we needed to get plus some grocery shopping - but we got held up in a Petco, looking at toys for Scone. I think we are way too into our cat.

A new Harris Teeter opened up about 15 minutes away from us, and I wanted to give it a try. Thus, tonight's meal includes only items bought there.

We bought some pre-stuffed chicken breasts, which we baked in the oven. They were good - but the rice stuffing burned quite a bit and was hard to eat.

We also had some garlic couscous and veggies on the side.

A nice little quickie meal for sure.

Uggghhhh. I am so dreading tomorrow. It's my first day of classes. It's not that I am dreading going back to school or anything like that - it's more the time of night that I have class now. Check out my schedule:

Experimental Forms - Monday: 8:15 - 10:45 p.m.
Memoir Workshop - Thursday: 2-4:30 p.m.

That's right. Mondays are not going to be a fun day. I highly doubt that I'll be blogging my dinner that night as I won't get home until nearly midnight. I am sure to be dragging on Tuesdays. But hey! This is what one must do when one is in graduate school part time.

Sigh.

Goodnight all :)

Blogless on a Saturday Night

2009-01-25T10:48:00.001-08:00

Sorry for being blog-MIA last night. We had a long, fun-filled day at my cousin's house, followed by some bonding with Scone and then went out to the Pour House for a little while to watch the USA soccer game. By the time I got home, I was crashing.

We got to Deb and Chip's house around 1 p.m. yesterday and were immediately greeted with quite a spread of food on the table.

There was:

Roasted Chicken
Green Beans
Salad
"Marshmallow Potatoes"
Stuffing
Garlic bread

I loaded up my plate with a little bit from each category. Those marshmallow potatoes were so, so good. And the chicken was super moist.

After our big lunch/dinner, Deb brought out some carrot cake. I swear there hasn't been a time that I've been to her house and not had a piece of cake - along with bringing a sliver of it home. This was a really nice treat. I haven't had carrot cake in a long time.

We hung out at Deb and Chip's until about 6 p.m., mainly talking over coffee, having a tea party with the girls, dancing around, watching a bit of TV - the whole nine yards. I got involved in a Hannah Montana dance party - and let me tell you: it.was.fun. No regrets on that one.

We got home around 7 p.m. and decided that we'd spend some time with Scone, then go out for a bit to watch the game. I decided to eat before going out so I could avoid over-doing it on greasy food. I stuck with a Morning Star Chik Patty - my usual quickie favorite.

We got to the bar around 8:30 p.m. and stayed until about 11 p.m. I ended up forgetting my camera - but I did have two glasses of wine and pierogies (it was a Pittsburgh bar - yay!), though the pierogies tasted like they came out of a frozen box. Boo. I know a good pierogie when I see one. The game was good - though I will admit that I did not watch fully once everyone got there. I got a little distracted by good conversation :)

SUNDAY

Remember how I took that Club Strength class yesterday? Well, let's just say I feel every bit of it today. I could barely get out of bed this morning. I ended up lounging on the couch and getting sucked into watching Titanic for at least an hour. I think it's still on now... that movie is so long!

I was craving cereal this morning, which is really odd for me. Knowing it wouldn't fill me up as long as oatmeal, I decided to make something new: A cereal-inspired oatmeal.

I topped this bowl of oatmeal with blueberries, some walnuts and crushed-up Kashi Autumn Wheat. Delicious - especially with PB on the spoon.

My goodness. How is it 2 p.m. already? I have to get started on my errands - mainly revolving around shopping. For now, I'll leave you with my Scone Picture of the Day.

I swear I won't post a picture of him every day. But isn't he wonderful? I am such a proud first-time pet owner!

Do you have a pet? Tell me about him/her!

Do you have "Club Strength"?

2009-01-24T08:09:00.001-08:00

I finally got my butt out of bed and promptly to the gym this morning around 9 a.m. I am so not a morning person, so Saturdays are about the only day of the week I workout in the morning. But due to the Inauguration madness and our new family member coming home, I haven't been to the gym in a while and knew I needed to go.

I took the "Club Strength" class today, and I was pleasantly surprised by what we did there (I had never taken the class before). I was having a dilemma about lifting because I knew I didn't have enough time to do both (we're expected to be somewhere around 1 p.m. today and need to leave at noon). But luckily, Club Strength was exactly what you'd expect: lifting. Here are my stats:

Duration: 1 hour
Calories: 374 burned
Highest Heart Rate: 165

Upon returning home, I quickly made myself a bowl of oatmeal. I was so hungry.

Contents:

blueberries
1/4 granola plank
wheat germ
1/2 cup oats
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup water
1/2 banana
Perfection!

We're heading to my cousin's house soon for an afternoon of fun with her family. She and her husband have three young little girls -so dancing always ensues at their place. I'm sure I'll come home nice and tired :)

Happy Saturday!

Welcome Home Scone

2009-01-23T18:37:00.001-08:00

Scone is home! Below is a video I made from some shots Bill took when he first brought him home, around noon today. Check out this short video!

We decided to stay in tonight since it's Scone's first night at home. We ordered Thai food in. Bill and I split an order of spring rolls, and I had Pad Thai with Chicken.

I'm pretty sure Scone is happy. After dinner, he lounged on the couch beside me. He was constantly on alert about every noise he heard in the apartment above us. Look how smart and distinguished he looks.

I'm in kitty heaven!

Time to go watch Towelhead, followed by a good night's rest and an early gym appointment tomorrow morning.

Canned Soup: You’re Too Good To Me

2009-01-23T09:55:00.001-08:00

Please forgive me for showing you yet another can of Amy’s Organic Soups! Let alone another lentil lunch on a Friday. Lunch is my on-going problem meal of the day, and I do realize that I can’t live on soup and sandwich alone – but Amy’s Soups are just so.freaking.good.

Today I decided to just have soup and crackers. I’m not sure why I didn’t pack a sandwich, but I think it had something to with being in a rush to get to bed last night. I’m wondering if I can survive for the rest of the work day on simply this? I do have apple + a Chobani, so I might be OK.

Question: What do you pack for lunch?

I am simply out of ideas. I am such a sucker for leftovers and the obvious soup/sandwich combo. There has to be more to lunch!

LUNCH LINK

If you haven’t stepped over and donated to Meghann’s fundraising page, please do so. She’s a member of the The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Team In Training, so all proceeds will go there. I know times are tough, but any donation is still a donation – even if it’s just $1. Plus the donating process is super fast and easy – I was done within three minutes.

Pear's Vacation Oatmeal

2009-01-23T04:56:00.001-08:00

(Ready for a goofy oatmeal story???)

Vacation for a pear is not as different as one might suspect.

They are a huge fan of sunbathing and go to the pool as often as they can. The paleness of their exposed skin bothers them sometimes.

They always get premiere seating at the pool, even if there are a bunch of little ones running around.

And there's always one of them who thinks he's too cool for school. He just hangs back, watches everyone and doesn't say much of anything.

Question: When it's warmer out, do you go to the pool? Are you a sunbather or swimmer?

I very rarely go swimming, but I am usually more of a sunbather. I usually only jump in the pool to cool down on a hot summer day. Wow, it's been so long since I've said there's been a hot summer day. I miss warm weather!

Catless in Silver Spring, Part 2

2009-01-22T18:06:00.001-08:00

We had everything ready. We vacuumed the place, we got Scone's litter box ready and we even filled up his food dish.I also sacrificed a seat cushion so he'd have a place to sit, if he wanted.

But we are still catless because we got to the humane society at 6:50 p.m., and they closed at 7 p.m. They said the adoption process takes 30 minutes (the first time we'd ever heard that), and so we had to turn around and go home - after 45 minutes of battling traffic, trying to make it on time. Two of the volunteers were very nice, and I could tell they were willing to stay late to help us get Scone home. But their manager was quite short, almost bordering rude - and kept reminding them that they had to close.

We were going to come home and make dinner, but we decided to continue our Thursday tradition of going to Panera Bread. It's not an understatement to say we were feeling dejected.

I got a You-Pick-Two (my usual) with an Asian Sesame Chicken Salad and French Onion Soup.

The highlight of my night was when Bill tried to explain to me what the line meant in this supply and demand graph. Riveting stuff.

Not but seriously - it actually was quite interesting, and I'd say that I learned something.

I didn't make it to the gym tonight because I rushed home in an attempt at picking up Scone - but that's OK. I'm planning a nice workout tomorrow night and Saturday morning to make up for my lack of exercise recently.

OH - and for those who asked about us keeping his name Scone instead of Oat - here is our reasoning. 1) He is four years old and has had the name Scone for a long time. 2) We don't want to shock him.

Maybe someday I will have a cat named Oat!

Disaster Oatmeal

2009-01-22T05:04:00.001-08:00

Sure, this bowl of oatmeal looks pretty. But If you could see how much cinnamon I accidentally dumped into this bowl of oatmeal, you'd be appalled.

So much cinnamon that I had to choke down the last several bites. I never thought I'd have to "choke down" anything involving oatmeal.

There are two sides to every coin: it looks like I just discovered the evil side of oatmeal. Too much cinnamon= too much to handle.

Good thing I had my friends come over to the save the day: Hullabaloo trail mix, blueberries and wheat germ. They can disguise anything.

What was your worst mishap in the kitchen?

Although this is pretty bad, I wouldn't say it's the worst thing that's ever happened to me while cooking. There was one time that I was baking muffins or cookies (I can't remember now), and I switched the salt and sugar measurements. What a disaster! It was the fastest I ever spit something out of my mouth. Disgusting!

Inauguration 2009

2009-01-21T18:34:00.001-08:00

We ate, we drank, we were merry. And I made this Obama Fruit Plate.

Now watch a short four-minute-video of our experience. If you want to skip to Obama's speech, go about three minutes in. If you want to see our crazy antics, watch from the beginning. Enjoy!

Lost Chicken Stir Fry

2009-01-21T16:34:00.001-08:00

Hey friends! This picture serves as proof that I officially ~~barely~~ survived Inauguration 2009. I have a video in-the-works to show you (hopefully) a little later on tonight, but for now - there's your teaser.

And here's another little dinner teaser. What's perfect to have the night of the Lost Season Premiere according to not only me but also Erica at Itzy's Kitchen? You may (or may not) have guessed it:

Chicken Stir Fry with Chinese Vegetables

Dinner was made just-for-one tonight as a certain boyfriend was working overtime. I feel bad that his version of overtime includes making tons and tons of copies for undergraduate students.

More Obama coverage to come! As soon as Bill arrives with his Macbook I'll get right to work.

Who's ready for Lost tonight?

Pecan Cinna-stick Oatmeal

2009-01-19T08:18:00.001-08:00

I've been busy as a bee this morning cleaning the apartment. A certain humane society will be stopping by the place some night this week to make sure we're "fit parents" for Scone. I've been vacuuming, scrubbing the kitchen floors, cleaning out cabinets, etc. since about 9 a.m. this morning. I finally paused for a late breakfast around 11 a.m.

I ran out of cinnamon mid-oatmeal making this morning, so I decided to improvise and throw in a cinnamon stick. It actually makes a difference!

We are leaving in a couple hours for the all-day Obama eve party, so this will be my last post until tomorrow night. Thanks to everyone who provided suggestions (and double suggestions - thanks Hangry Pants!) on what to take to the party. We actually decided upon a red, white and blue fruit platter (strawberries, apples and blueberries). Our friends have the basics covered - pizza, hot dogs, coleslaw, various desserts, American wine and beer, etc., and it seems we were lacking in the fruit/veg department. I think a fruit platter with some Cool Whip will be perfect.

Question: For those of you who've made Gina's breakfast cookie, does the cookie stay together pretty well? I am thinking about using her recipe in an art-related context. Let me know what you think!

Workspace: Check!

2009-01-18T19:28:00.001-08:00

Thank you all for your sweet comments about my new haircut on my last post! You're all wonderful and made me feel pretty :) It's day two, and I'm still loving the hair - SO glad I got this done. I didn't realize how much better you can look after a good haircut!

Oh... and welcome new readers! I noticed a lot of new folks commenting on the last couple posts. Thanks for popping over to my lobster placemat :) I will check out your blogs shortly!

Wow. What a day! I definitely tried to jam-pack too many activities into today, and what made it hard was that I didn't feel well all day :( Now I am just relaxing and resting up before the big party tomorrow night + Inauguration on Tuesday. Our friends Brian and Amy live near the capitol - so we'll be staying there for an Obama-themed evening followed by an early morning in the city. I can't wait! Except lots of photos + video!

I woke up super late today - around 10:30 a.m. and quickly made a nice bowl of oatmeal.

This bowl had a little bit of:

walnuts
blueberries
wheat germ
banana oatmeal
yum!

So delicious. So good.

After oatmeal eating, I took a quick shower and Bill and I headed to another humane society to look at cats. We were there for about two hours! We met a very nice cat named Scone, who we had a good visit with.... and that's all I'm saying for now. Stay tuned for details!

We made a stop @ Whole Foods after the humane society, and we picked up some grub for dinner.

We started off with some crackers, crab dip and hummus.

And then followed with crabcakes and some broiled asparagus.

We burned the crabcakes a bit - oops. They were still good though.

Since dinner I've been (slowly) working on organizing the bedroom - particularly my new workspace. I felt terrible the entire time I was moving items, but I just worked on adrenaline. I just wanted to get it done. I'm like that with projects - I can't quit until I'm finished.

Without further ado... check out my new hang out - organized (for the most part) just the way I had wanted:

Words can't even convey how happy I am with this area. I'm so excited to work on my writing, create books, make art and just live in this space. I am so happy with my Christmas present from Bill :)

Hey all! One last thing before I go - I am going to the Obama-themed party tomorrow tonight, and I offered to bring an appetizer. The theme is Chicago/Hawaiian/Americana. Does anyone have any ideas for easy-to-transport-on-the-subway food? I should know this by now, but I'm totally stuck! Please help!

Catless in Silver Spring

2009-01-17T19:44:00.001-08:00

I got many things accomplished on my to-do list today... except buying a cat and naming it Oat. But that's ok! We went into the humane society knowing we probably wouldn't get one today. We just wanted more information so we could prepare (budget-wise) and see if it was affordable. We have decided, however, to definitely name him/her Oat, when the time comes :) And we might call him/her Oatie (thanks for the suggestion, Mom!)

#1 on my to-do list was getting a hair cut. Do you prefer...

Before? (aka: a grown out haircut)

After?

I love my new haircut! I went to a new stylist, and he was great - very receptive, understanding and an-all around good listener (both with hair-related issues and chit and general!) I will definitely go back to him next time I need a cut.

After my haircut, I decided to grab a quick lunch before heading out to shop/look at cats. I decided on a chik patty on an everything bagel with a nice side salad with balsamic vinegar.

Grilled to perfection!

We went over to REI today because they were having big sales. I ended up getting a few items for classes @ the gym and a nice Northface pullover fleece that matches Bill's - all on sale! Now I will finally be in style at the gym with this cute pair of Nike capris and a maroon shirt.

After REI, we headed over to IKEA to buy another table for my workspace. While there, I saw this set of drawers that would be perfect for under the table. I ended up buying both that and the table - though I didn't hit a sale with the table :(

We went to Panera for dinner (I know, again!) and when we came home, we set up the set of drawers together. Although this picture conveys that only one person finished it:

I'm just not a handy-man. I get bored quickly.

Time to watch Sex and the City - the Movie! Catch you all tomorrow!

Flomar or Oat?

2009-01-17T10:00:00.001-08:00

Hey peeps! I was blogless last night due to the fact that Bill had a show in Baltimore. After work, I had a little snack (pita chips and hummus) and then immediately hit the road.

Care to sample a bit of the show? Click play below. I must warn you - the lighting is bad, and I was sort of only filming Bill because I knew he had a few solos in this song. He starts rocking the harmonica about 45 seconds in:

And here's another better video of the entire band playing a Pixies cover.

The show was fun! I met a few very cool people and had a good time. The space was small, so I was a bit claustrophobic at points. I was also exhausted because it was a Friday night, and I'm old :( I can't stay out as late as I used to!

SATURDAY

I somehow left the warmth of my comfortable bed for a different kind of warmth: a nice morning workout at the gym. Here are my stats:

20 minutes of lifting
55 minutes - Step Aerobics (my fav! I am getting better!)
Total Calories: 507

While in class I actually started craving oatmeal and thinking about what I was going to make once I got home. I decided on a lot of mixed nuts for my topping:

This was so good! I had some PB on a spoon and also a glass of orange juice. I'm now sipping on some coffee and getting ready to take a shower:

I love Gloria Jean's Hazelnut Coffee! It's the only K-cup flavor we have in which I don't need an artificial sweetner. I am really trying to wean myself off those small packets. Also, a fun fact! Did you know Bill used to work at the WWF? That's how we got that mug. I used to love it when people thought he worked for the World Wrestling Federation :)

We have many plans for the day! Want to hear em'?

I'm getting a haircut at 2 p.m.
We're hoping to go to IKEA and buy a table
.... we might stop by the cat shelter
.... and look at cats
.... maybe buy one?
.... and name it Flomar?
.... or our other choice....
.... which is OAT

Have a good Saturday!

Double Lentil Lunch

2009-01-16T09:46:00.001-08:00

After art class this morning, I’ve moved on to agriculture for lunch. Today’s specimen is the mysterious (sometimes exciting!) lentil! I started off by examining how the lentil interacts with other veggies with this can o’ soup.

I wasn’t convinced after the first bite. But then I kept going. It was pretty good!

To further my experiment, I decided to test out how they’d act with greens – and other beans including the garbanzo and white bean.

So I reached my maximum bean capacity after that salad. Phew. Good thing I have dessert (not to be mixed with any sort of lentil). I never bring chocolate to work, but it’s Friday. And I’m happy.

Looks like I’m not the only one who’s got love for the lentil – and you should too!

Bananaberry Oatmeal with Grated Apple

2009-01-16T05:03:00.001-08:00

Today's bowl of oatmeal was inspired by art class.

In today's oatmeal classroom, I decided to use the primary colors. Do you remember them?

I used an apple for red.

Some blueberries for blue (even though they're actually purple.)

And a banana for "yellow" (even though it's turning brown).

With some hardwork and elbow grease, I produced this final product:

Included with the grated apple were some pecans and wheat germ. I cooked the blueberries right in with the oatmeal.

In making (and eating) this grated apple, I discovered why I hate coconut so much - the texture! Even though this looked, tasted and smelled like an apple, I felt like I was eating coconut, and I wasn't a huge fan. I ended up mixing everything in my bowl around so the other textures might mask it a bit. It sort of did the trick.

Questions!

1 - Do you like coconut?

2 - Are/Were you ever an "artist"? The term is open-ended. If so, of what?

45-minute Jog Plan? And Panera

2009-01-15T18:22:00.001-08:00

Shooooot. Guess who's super sore from Tina's 45-minute treadmill workout? Talk about a burn! She wasn't kidding when she wrote it would sculpt your legs and butt. Wow, I am so sore right now - but a good kind of sore. I ended up not following either the running or the walking option - but sort of made up my own version called the "jogging" option. I'm not as fast as Tina and don't work my way up to 7.0 mph on a treadmill just yet, so I basically took her suggestions down by .5 mph. It worked out quite well! I burned 557 calories and ended up walking an extra 15 minutes to give me a complete 60-minute workout.

After the gym, I decided to text Bill and see if he wanted to go to Panera. He confirmed but said he wouldn't be home for 30 minutes. It was killing me not to eat a snack - but I wanted to save up my hunger and not spoil my dinner.

(Wow. Sometimes I think my cell phone camera is better than my actual camera in low lighting. That's not a good thing.)

I ended up getting a You-Pick-Two with a chicken salad, black bean soup and a multi-grain roll. Delicious! I love going to Panera because it's cheap, convenient and it gives Bill and I time to talk while not watching TV or being distracted by anything else.

Question of the Night: Do you eat all meals at the table?

I'll fess up and say that I don't - but I should. Sometimes watching a little TV while eating is good for decompressing for me. But I do make a big effort though to eat most meals at the table - with my lobster placemat.

PS: I'm SOOOOOO CLOSE to my four-day weekend!!!!

Open-faced Sammy

2009-01-15T09:54:00.001-08:00

Remember last night when I ate a sandwich that could have been a chik’n patty but wasn’t? Well, I think that made me crave one even more. So today for lunch I had one, open-faced style with Babybel cheese and ketchup.

Wondering about the open-faced part? I only had one piece of bread left in the bag – and that was the crusty end. Must make due with what you have. I also had some Amy’s Organic Soup – Vegetable Barley. Check out the lighted affect (similar to Kath’s chandelier coffee!) I didn’t know that happened until I uploaded my photos to the computer; I think it looks sort of cool.

Here is my meal, in it’s entirety…. sans a lobster placemat because I was starving and totally forgot to reach for it.

I have an apple and yogurt packed for afternoon snacks that I’m pretty excited about. Can’t blog for long – have a busy afternoon trying to tie up some loose strings. Then I’m hitting the gym after work for Tina’s 45-minute Treadmill Workout – I’m so jazzed about it. I never thought I’d say that about anything involving a treadmill.

Lunch Link

You may have seen this already but Oh She Glows is having an Honest Foods Giveaway. Scoot yourself over there not only for the contest – but also for this great blog about food, fitness and shopping!

Smiley Oatmeal

2009-01-15T04:57:00.001-08:00

Raise your hand if you think I went off the deep end!

I really hope this picture doesn't frighten ~~anyone~~ small children. My intention was to make a cute smiley face using blueberries and a peach. There are only so many things you can do.

Is it weird that his eyes are also his lips? Probably. But I need to use my blueberries!

Bill just walked by and said it does look creepy. Shoot! Maybe I should have given him a nose. Would that have helped?

Question of the Day: Do you prefer face-to-face interaction over email, IM, or otherwise?

For me it depends on the person and place. At work, I tend to be an email person because I don't like interrupting people while they're working (unless I know it's ok). But when it comes to catching up with friends, I'd probably never "chat" online with my best friend but instead would call or drive up to see her.

Three-Nut Burgers

2009-01-14T18:30:00.001-08:00

Tonight's gym session was meh. It wasn't that I didn't do well or was sore or anything. I basically just took the wrong class for my mood. For some reason, I didn't realize that Total Body Conditioning meant lifting and squatting. The title should have tipped me off. The problem was that I lifted before the class, so lifting again wasn't on my mind. I really wanted some sweaty cardio. My stats were still good though, and I know it was good for my body. Maybe next time I'll skip my normal lifting routine and go straight for the class?

20 minutes - lifting
15 minutes - abs class
55 minutes - Total Body Conditioning
Total Calories: 530
Woo!

Dinner

Judging from my obsession with Morning Star Chik'n patties, one may think this meal was one of my quickie sandwiches:

But upon further investigation, you might see that these were actually homemade burgers. We made Three-Nut burgers from the Vegan Planet. The "nuts" of the burger were lentils, walnuts and cashews - talk about crazy. I toasted mine on the George Foreman with a little cheese and spinach. Can you see the nut varieties in this close-up?

To tell you the truth, I wasn't too crazy about these burgers - and neither was Bill. In fact, he only ate half of his. There was definitely a texture issue going on with this meal. It sort of tasted just like mashed up lentils. I didn't hate it, but I wouldn't say I'd be making it every month or anything. The melty cheese was a nice distraction, at least.

So who's ready for Top Chef tonight? I am totally stoked to see some good ~~fighting~~ cooking. Check you in the morning for some oatmeal delight!

Question of the Night: Do you like knowing how many calories you burn during a workout?

I've found with my HRM, I have become addicted to it - but in a good way. More that I like knowing how hard I'm working when doing certain activities and whether I'm slacking or going too hard.

Spritzer!

2009-01-14T10:18:00.001-08:00

Lunch may be a repeat of last night’s dinner (all mixed up, of course) but today’s midday nosh had a different flavor to it thanks to this guy:

I’m not sure what made me do this; I just had a hunch it might be good – and it was! Here’s my pre-sprayed meal:

Muy delicious and filling! Sometimes I wonder why I never ate a squash (in squash form) until 2008? Can you believe that? I mean, sure, I’ve eaten squash ravioli and things like that prior to ‘08 – but last year was the first time in which I took a knife to a squash, seeded it and cooked it. I think I’ve eaten almost 10 this year. So happy I discovered this wintry veg!

Lunch Link

A friend of mine has a friend who works at Better Homes and Gardens Magazine, and she sent me a link for a hip, new facebook-meets-cooking connection website. Sort of like Foodbuzz but a tad different.

I haven’t had much time to check out The Mixing Bowl, but thought I’d pass it around to you all for some lunchtime reviewing. My loyalty stays with Foodbuzz, but it doesn’t hurt to be ultra-connected in this layered world known as the interweb .

Grapeberrry Oatmeal

2009-01-14T05:02:00.001-08:00

This morning's oatmeal combination was one my favorites - mainly because of the colors.

I mixed grapes with blueberries and topped with walnuts and wheat germ. Something about the whole thing just looked beautiful to me.

You may have noticed that I've been using blueberries pretty regularly for my oatmeal. Check out Mr. Booberry himself.

... There's no other reason for this than 1) I love blueberries and 2) I'm trying hard to waste fruit.

Does any food "go to waste" in your household?

I am notorious for wasting fresh fruits. I always buy too many (usually for oatmeal toppings) and then too much time passes, and I can't use them.

Squashed

2009-01-13T17:48:00.001-08:00

Did you ever have one of those mentally-exhausting days and then it turns physical? That's how I felt after leaving work today. I was starving, sore and all-around tired, so I decided to just come home (and skip the gym) for some rest and good food.

Bill had band practice tonight, so I was on my own for Tofu Tuesday. After trying to squeeze out the tofu liquid with a stack of books, I realized Bill is a much better tofu cook than I.

Does anyone do this? I swear I read this on a blog, but I felt ridiculous after I took this picture. It did the trick - though it flattened the tofu quite a bit.

Since Bill wasn't around for dinner, I decided to cook up a three-bean special. Here's my random recipe for the night:

Three-Bean Stuffed Acorn Squash with Tofu

This was a classic case of me being overly hungry and wanting five things at once. The good news? It tasted pretty good, even though I didn't finish it.

I stuffed the acorn squash with chickpeas, white beans, lentils and brown rice. I also used oregano, italian herbs, garlic, olive oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

I used the same spices for the tofu. It didn't turn out half bad - especially since I was doing it on my own. If I make this recipe again, I think I'll omit the tofu. My original plan was to toss it into the rice and beans - but it was too much for that little squash.

What are you up to tonight? I am about to relax on the couch with some coffee. I'm definitely going to push myself hard at the gym tomorrow since I skipped today. I'm already looking forward to it!

Serving up stackers

2009-01-13T04:51:00.001-08:00

If I had a restaurant, there's no way I wouldn't serve pearberry stackers:

Could you imagine the possibilities of this sandwich? You could add peanut butter to the layers, maybe drizzle a touch of honey on top - or maybe you could grill the whole sandwich. That would be interesting and different.

I decided to place my nicely on top oatmeal with some pecans and wheat germ. I definitely played it safe in case I didn't like the stacked up feel.

There's also something about this bowl. I don't know why, but the yellow of this bowl makes me so happy. Like this is the perfect Tuesday for me to do what I do - despite the weird fogginess in the background.

Have you ever had a perfect day? What was so good about it?