Sunday, November 22, 2009
Ever changing
It was time to change over the blog. So, here's where I'm keeping the old stuff. Because I am just soooooo proficient, I managed to lose most of the pictures associated & am way too lazy to upload them all again. Moving right along. I won't be posting to this anymore, but you can see the new stuff at Apple Seeds
Friday, November 13, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
The ongoing battle
We adore the little animals which we keep incarcerated in this house. They have us very well trained and we would do just about anything to amuse them.
That said, not everyone likes them as much as we do. Their geriatric stank, squeaky demands for food and the little spiky hairs that are impossible to remove seem to occasionally turn guests off. Many people also are allergic to the aforementioned shedding.
In the ongoing battle against hairs, we have tried many different products. So far the vacuum followed by sticky rollers on furniture & swiffering on the floors work best.
Today I came across a 'Fabric Sweeper for Pet Hair' brought to us by the good people at Pledge. While expensive for a throw-away item (about $5 at the evil empire), I decided to give it a go. It did wonderful things for our sofa & upholstered chairs. This could be a great weapon in the arsenal!
In looking to see what other people thought about it, I ended up at this site. Her review seems pretty spot on. But the part that excites me most about it is the youtube at the bottom which shows how to just pop the rollers out and re-use. Awesome!
That said, not everyone likes them as much as we do. Their geriatric stank, squeaky demands for food and the little spiky hairs that are impossible to remove seem to occasionally turn guests off. Many people also are allergic to the aforementioned shedding.
In the ongoing battle against hairs, we have tried many different products. So far the vacuum followed by sticky rollers on furniture & swiffering on the floors work best.
Today I came across a 'Fabric Sweeper for Pet Hair' brought to us by the good people at Pledge. While expensive for a throw-away item (about $5 at the evil empire), I decided to give it a go. It did wonderful things for our sofa & upholstered chairs. This could be a great weapon in the arsenal!
In looking to see what other people thought about it, I ended up at this site. Her review seems pretty spot on. But the part that excites me most about it is the youtube at the bottom which shows how to just pop the rollers out and re-use. Awesome!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
A gift for Mr.
Thanks Willie, Paula & Danielle for the slab! We now have no excuse for not making candied bacon (yuuuuuuummmmmm or ewwwwwwwwwwwwww?)...
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Sr. Fuzzbutt
Poor Clovis still has dry skin. This time of year is just no fun. It has been a challenge. Even the xxx-small boots are a little big for him. These ones fit the best & seem to keep him from scratching. Between that and the salad bowl for gnawing, maybe we can keep him away from destroying himself.
More autumn
We had our first touch of frost last night. However, the basil & jalapeno plants are still going strong. Here they are + a couple of Midian in his element...
Friday, October 30, 2009
Gifted
Some say that I am 'gifted' (the only ones who mean that in a good way usually being my parents). But apparently this is a day to get gifts. This morning was a big one - Curt got me the Rosetta Stone french 123 software that I have been fantasizing about for the past year. When it arrived I nearly passed out. It is ex-pen-sive (at least by my standards) and never thought we would actually get it. So, will have to post updates as to how well it is working (or rather how well I am working using it).
Next, Dad came over and cut down several of the dead dogwoods that were worrying me (such as the one leaning against the power lines, another leaning against the neighbors fence and one about to fall across the road out front). He even cut them up so we could use the big bits as firewood for the house and the smaller branches in the big burning ring he gave us out back.
Finally, a card came across the pond to Mr. from Mum. It was clearly a birthday card sent early (he doesn't actually pass into another year until the middle of next month), but that didn't stop him from opening it up now. A nice check fell out that he jokes should just about cover the Rosetta Stone software.
Off I go to the bank and then home again to start downloading lessons. Hopefully this karma hangs around for a while - a gal could get used to days like this!
Next, Dad came over and cut down several of the dead dogwoods that were worrying me (such as the one leaning against the power lines, another leaning against the neighbors fence and one about to fall across the road out front). He even cut them up so we could use the big bits as firewood for the house and the smaller branches in the big burning ring he gave us out back.
Finally, a card came across the pond to Mr. from Mum. It was clearly a birthday card sent early (he doesn't actually pass into another year until the middle of next month), but that didn't stop him from opening it up now. A nice check fell out that he jokes should just about cover the Rosetta Stone software.
Off I go to the bank and then home again to start downloading lessons. Hopefully this karma hangs around for a while - a gal could get used to days like this!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Scratchy
Clovis has been scratching. We treated the place for fleas and gave them multiple baths/topical treatments/oral medicines. Clovis is still scratching. He made some sores on his tummy. In order to inhibit his ability to flay himself, we have been wrapping him in gauze and athletic tape. It's been helping some.
Today, Mr. got a hold of some dog booties. Unfortunately, the little guy just kicks them right off. Thus, we've had to revert back to wrapping him. At least he's all set for a Halloween costume. Here are a couple of pics. See him giving me the evil eye? Poor bugger, I'd be cursing me too....
Today, Mr. got a hold of some dog booties. Unfortunately, the little guy just kicks them right off. Thus, we've had to revert back to wrapping him. At least he's all set for a Halloween costume. Here are a couple of pics. See him giving me the evil eye? Poor bugger, I'd be cursing me too....
Punks
The punkies (with a little help from Mumma & Gammy) carved us some beauts! We're hoping they get a little soft before Saturday. The plan is to put candy inside & make the beasties reach inside the gooey cavity for their sugar. Ha - when did I get so eeeeeeeeeevil?
Thanks Judy
I love my new scarf & I looooooooooove that you finally got down here for a visit (so does Ernie)!
Postulate
I was grasping for a word yesterday. 'It's like a cross between conclude and guess and for some reason I think it sounds like proselytize' was the best description I could give Curt. Pathetic, that's not even really right. In the middle of the night, I woke up remembering the word I had been searching for. So, I spent 6 hours working on that one which is even more pathetic!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Television
We don't have a tv per se, but we do watch a few shows the next day on Hulu. Every once in a while we catch the Family Guy. I find it to be hit or miss, but for some reason this one had us in stitches...
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Saturday, October 17, 2009
Store bought vs. homemade
So I know that I'm in the minority what with no job, kids, whateva to make me lose my sanity. This gives me time (and lack of dough) to work on homemade projects.
Once upon a time, I was of the opinion that making something for someone showed a certain caring that most store bought things did not. However, this is a theory that put in to practice does not seem to hold up so well.
Sure, there are people like dear Kara who makes a fantastic lace scarf in the time it takes me to read one of my cheap thrillers, Sean who can whip out a cake like it's nobody's business or Jenny who can stage plants and pottery to look so good that I'm afraid to even stop in at the nursery (again, the lack of money thing). But these are all people with that elusive quality known as 'talent' Supposedly, everybody has some, but I'm not all that sure (this doubt is reinforced by 90% of the music I hear every time the radio is on).
Yeah, yeah, yeah, 'practice makes perfect' and all that jazz. Maybe I'm just stubborn. 4 years of Spanish = a basic understanding of curse words & random phrases. A life time of painting, drawing & still can't get a straight line without using a hard edge (stupid lines, make me mad).
Anyhow, I hope that Annelise is more forgiving than I am. Here's the birthday cake she's getting...
Once upon a time, I was of the opinion that making something for someone showed a certain caring that most store bought things did not. However, this is a theory that put in to practice does not seem to hold up so well.
Sure, there are people like dear Kara who makes a fantastic lace scarf in the time it takes me to read one of my cheap thrillers, Sean who can whip out a cake like it's nobody's business or Jenny who can stage plants and pottery to look so good that I'm afraid to even stop in at the nursery (again, the lack of money thing). But these are all people with that elusive quality known as 'talent' Supposedly, everybody has some, but I'm not all that sure (this doubt is reinforced by 90% of the music I hear every time the radio is on).
Yeah, yeah, yeah, 'practice makes perfect' and all that jazz. Maybe I'm just stubborn. 4 years of Spanish = a basic understanding of curse words & random phrases. A life time of painting, drawing & still can't get a straight line without using a hard edge (stupid lines, make me mad).
Anyhow, I hope that Annelise is more forgiving than I am. Here's the birthday cake she's getting...
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Kickin it old school, sorta
Curt was chomping at the bit to see Anvil! The Story of Anvil. Like A.O. Scott, the NY Times reviewer, at first I wasn't sure if this was a real band or a sort of Spinal Tap rip-off (esp. upon hearing the name Robb Reiner)
This documentary was decent though. I love to be pleasantly surprised by a film. Maybe 'pleasantly' is the wrong word to use though. While it was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and one must admire their tenacity, it was sort of awful at the same time. How is an 80's style heavy metal band going to make it with the recording industry now? Let alone that they aren't just 80's style, but actual 80's heavy metal (putting them in their early 50's now).
Anyhow, it's worth watching if you were ever into bands like Metallica, Slayer, Twisted Sister, Merciful Fate, etc. I was more of a Ramones, Poison, Cinderella freak, so close enough. Here's a youtube of the trailer if you're interested.
This documentary was decent though. I love to be pleasantly surprised by a film. Maybe 'pleasantly' is the wrong word to use though. While it was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and one must admire their tenacity, it was sort of awful at the same time. How is an 80's style heavy metal band going to make it with the recording industry now? Let alone that they aren't just 80's style, but actual 80's heavy metal (putting them in their early 50's now).
Anyhow, it's worth watching if you were ever into bands like Metallica, Slayer, Twisted Sister, Merciful Fate, etc. I was more of a Ramones, Poison, Cinderella freak, so close enough. Here's a youtube of the trailer if you're interested.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Local reading
After more than 4 years here, we finally went down to the main branch of the Greensboro Public Library and got cards yesterday.
I have a back-up of books (as usual) to finish. So, I just looked around and didn't take anything home. Curt got out 'Osama Van Halen' (which he thought was not as much fun as the title & blurb suggested) and the 'Book of Mormon' (no worries, he just is curious about books that get followers - I assume that's why he's read Mein Kampf, the Communist Manifesto, etc.)
It is a great space, but I was not super-impressed by the collection. For example, one of my little pipe-dreams is to learn French. So, we were looking to see if they had anything like Rosetta Stone Software or dvd/cd's to learn from. The only thing was a really old & worn looking VHS of 'the Joy of French.' Also, I like my trashy mysteries & while they have a large section, it seems like only a few authors I recognize are in the stacks.
Guess that we were spoiled by the Boston Public Library and the UMass Boston Library. Somehow, I thought all libraries would have authors & publishing companies donating great stuff to them.
Poor old Greensboro. I talked to them about donating some books & movies. They were very enthusiastic. So, my goal is that every time I buy a nice hardcover book & finish it - off it will go to the Library!
I have a back-up of books (as usual) to finish. So, I just looked around and didn't take anything home. Curt got out 'Osama Van Halen' (which he thought was not as much fun as the title & blurb suggested) and the 'Book of Mormon' (no worries, he just is curious about books that get followers - I assume that's why he's read Mein Kampf, the Communist Manifesto, etc.)
It is a great space, but I was not super-impressed by the collection. For example, one of my little pipe-dreams is to learn French. So, we were looking to see if they had anything like Rosetta Stone Software or dvd/cd's to learn from. The only thing was a really old & worn looking VHS of 'the Joy of French.' Also, I like my trashy mysteries & while they have a large section, it seems like only a few authors I recognize are in the stacks.
Guess that we were spoiled by the Boston Public Library and the UMass Boston Library. Somehow, I thought all libraries would have authors & publishing companies donating great stuff to them.
Poor old Greensboro. I talked to them about donating some books & movies. They were very enthusiastic. So, my goal is that every time I buy a nice hardcover book & finish it - off it will go to the Library!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Recipe
Let me preface this by stating that I am not nearly as creative in the kitchen as most people we know. Really, I am happiest with toast and butter - maybe a touch of honey.
Since we have the rotating dinner club though, there is the challenge of whatever theme is being called for. This month, Chad and Corinne decided on "dirty foods" (to be taken any way you please).
Curt made dirty martinis & espresso martini's (the latter of which he called dirty toilet martini's - somehow I was able to abstain).
I made a black bean salad in a glass bowl to look like soil & stuck a bunch of spring onions in around the edges with the bulb part about an inch down. It's kind of basic, but was the first time I'd made it and it came out pretty good. So, here's the recipe...
-the juice of 2 limes
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-1 scallion, chopped
-3 serrano (or jalapeno) peppers, diced
-handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
-1/2 red bell pepper, diced
-1/4 red onion, diced
-1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
-1 can black beans, washed & drained
-1 can pinto beans, washed & drained
-1 small can sliced black olives, drained
Mix all the above ingredients together with whatever other seasonings you prefer (we use about a teaspoon of Stevia to sweeten & a pinch of salt)
Drizzle a few teaspoons of olive oil over the top, cover and let marinate in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Oh yeah, I wasn't the only wuss. Only Marti & Brad really went for the gold with their penis-loaf. Tragically, I was out enjoying the sunset when they first cut into it.
Since we have the rotating dinner club though, there is the challenge of whatever theme is being called for. This month, Chad and Corinne decided on "dirty foods" (to be taken any way you please).
Curt made dirty martinis & espresso martini's (the latter of which he called dirty toilet martini's - somehow I was able to abstain).
I made a black bean salad in a glass bowl to look like soil & stuck a bunch of spring onions in around the edges with the bulb part about an inch down. It's kind of basic, but was the first time I'd made it and it came out pretty good. So, here's the recipe...
-the juice of 2 limes
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-1 scallion, chopped
-3 serrano (or jalapeno) peppers, diced
-handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
-1/2 red bell pepper, diced
-1/4 red onion, diced
-1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
-1 can black beans, washed & drained
-1 can pinto beans, washed & drained
-1 small can sliced black olives, drained
Mix all the above ingredients together with whatever other seasonings you prefer (we use about a teaspoon of Stevia to sweeten & a pinch of salt)
Drizzle a few teaspoons of olive oil over the top, cover and let marinate in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Oh yeah, I wasn't the only wuss. Only Marti & Brad really went for the gold with their penis-loaf. Tragically, I was out enjoying the sunset when they first cut into it.
New projects
I've finally posted some of my recent knitting up at Ravelry (I am known there as StackDrommar) for you yarn heads. It's not all pretty, but it is improving. So far, the most complexity has been in designing a bag (to carry all my knitting crap in). One day soon I will be courageous enough to try socks. For now, it's mostly scarves though...
Preparations
I'm in purge mode. We've been gathering lots of stuff from around the house to put out at the neighborhood yard sale in October (scroll down to 'Upcoming Events' at www.lynwoodlakes.org for more details).
Some of it is junk, but a lot are things which were interesting or useful at some point. I was hardest on the book collection - there's a lot of classics, how-to's & books about why the hell we are the way we are and whether there's any hope for change (sorry Obama, the consensus seems to be no).
Curt added a few good things (for example, a digital camera that works well, but is a few years old & we've since upgraded) & there are old vases, candlesticks, Christmas knick-knacks and such (hey, whatever floats your boat). So, come buy it all at the yard sale or look for it later in October at Goodwill. Ah, to have space in our home again - yaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!
By the way, thanks for the boxes Annelise! They seem to take the weight of all that paper and glass better than the used liquor store boxes.
Some of it is junk, but a lot are things which were interesting or useful at some point. I was hardest on the book collection - there's a lot of classics, how-to's & books about why the hell we are the way we are and whether there's any hope for change (sorry Obama, the consensus seems to be no).
Curt added a few good things (for example, a digital camera that works well, but is a few years old & we've since upgraded) & there are old vases, candlesticks, Christmas knick-knacks and such (hey, whatever floats your boat). So, come buy it all at the yard sale or look for it later in October at Goodwill. Ah, to have space in our home again - yaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!
By the way, thanks for the boxes Annelise! They seem to take the weight of all that paper and glass better than the used liquor store boxes.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Wild chihuahuas
Ernie was not quite so spectacular as we had to dice his steak up for him. Clovis doesn't have his front teeth anymore. But, he did eventually manage to show this piece of meat who the boss was...
Friday, September 4, 2009
Harvest moon
It was really remarkable when I first took Clovis out. By the time we got back and I grabbed the camera though, the moon was just disappearing. Managed to get this shot, but it doesn't really give you a great idea just how enormous and orange that sucker looked...
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Spore-ific
A whole new type of gardening opportunity made itself apparent when I was walking thru the garden the other day. After looking up online, these appear to me most like the images of oyster mushrooms. Sadly, I'm not much of an adventurous spirit. So, rather than give in to potential culinary delights, I can only imagine someone finding our poisoned bodies on the kitchen floor.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
In disguise
The wiley European fisherman is out to get me for his fish-head stew! Whatever will I do?
Friday, August 28, 2009
Yarn shopping in the Berkshires
After my trip to western MA & upstate NY, I feel compelled to mention a few places that we stopped off at.
First off, Mum, the McCalls and I decided to hit Webs in Northampton, MA. I've been buying thru their online store with great success. They have a huge inventory. It was really great to feel the textures on some of the beautiful-looking skeins pictured at the site. Also, we found some new treasures.
Next, we went up the road a short bit to Northampton Wools. It is right by the center of town and has two store fronts.
On the right side, they have a shop with all yarns & patterns for babies & children. Mum had some success there. The store to the left carried Manos Del Uruguay which I lust after with an unhealthy passion. So, restraining myself, I only bought 2 skeins. It was very tough to walk away!
The McCalls went home and the next day Mum met me in Chatham, NY. We went to lunch with Uncle. Afterwards we went to The Warm Ewe. Such a patient man, I don't think he knew the wait that he was in for when he agreed to sit outside on a bench while we took a "quick" look. We'd been there once before a year or two ago & were mightily impressed. Mum found some more baby projects for her friends soon-to-be grandchildren. I found another skein to match a unfinished project.
So, quite a success. It's good we don't live closer or we'd have all our money tied up in yarns. Anyhow, I'm adding the links to Webs & The Warm Ewe below. There doesn't seem to be a site for Northampton Wool, but I'll post a link that has directions/phone/reviews.
First off, Mum, the McCalls and I decided to hit Webs in Northampton, MA. I've been buying thru their online store with great success. They have a huge inventory. It was really great to feel the textures on some of the beautiful-looking skeins pictured at the site. Also, we found some new treasures.
Next, we went up the road a short bit to Northampton Wools. It is right by the center of town and has two store fronts.
On the right side, they have a shop with all yarns & patterns for babies & children. Mum had some success there. The store to the left carried Manos Del Uruguay which I lust after with an unhealthy passion. So, restraining myself, I only bought 2 skeins. It was very tough to walk away!
The McCalls went home and the next day Mum met me in Chatham, NY. We went to lunch with Uncle. Afterwards we went to The Warm Ewe. Such a patient man, I don't think he knew the wait that he was in for when he agreed to sit outside on a bench while we took a "quick" look. We'd been there once before a year or two ago & were mightily impressed. Mum found some more baby projects for her friends soon-to-be grandchildren. I found another skein to match a unfinished project.
So, quite a success. It's good we don't live closer or we'd have all our money tied up in yarns. Anyhow, I'm adding the links to Webs & The Warm Ewe below. There doesn't seem to be a site for Northampton Wool, but I'll post a link that has directions/phone/reviews.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Gifts from Mum
Mum is great the way she encourages my creativity. Today I got a super-useful gift in the mail. It will really help me get all this yarn we went buying into a more organized state - very cool indeed.
Cats and more cats
I've been visiting the North-East for the last week. Looking thru the photos, I am struck by how many cats have been gathering at Aunt Patty's place. At least they're outdoor cats who just come into the garage to sleep in the winter. Still, there are enough of them, I hope they never organize a revolt!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Salud
So Mr. was awake for something like 22 hours yesterday. He got up at 3:30am for work. When we were having brunch with friends around 10am there was talk about no strippers at a bachelor party. Somebody casually suggested a girl jumping out of the middle of a cake. Without missing a beat, Curt voiced his opinion that it would be more interesting to see a cake jump out of the middle of a girl.
By late afternoon he was really fading in and out. We were determined to stay awake until at least around 9pm so that he wouldn't be all outta whack for the next few days. So, he started making a play-list of favorites. We had a couple of drinks and by 11pm he was making me a late dinner of eggs & toast. What in this world is better than sitting on the kitchen counter in the middle of the night, listening to a random mix of the best songs ever, while one's adoring spouse fixes breakfast for you?
Just to give you an idea of where Mr. was at, here's part of a message he sent friends at around 2:30 in the afternoon...
"Tried to take a nap, but my brain's racing and can't get to sleep. To top it off, Serena ended up going and taking a nap, while I'm sitting here listening to Ernie hacking away and thinking of the brainless blueberry people of barmbaband who've come here to paint all houses yellow and all fences pink - no care at all for what you or I may think."
By late afternoon he was really fading in and out. We were determined to stay awake until at least around 9pm so that he wouldn't be all outta whack for the next few days. So, he started making a play-list of favorites. We had a couple of drinks and by 11pm he was making me a late dinner of eggs & toast. What in this world is better than sitting on the kitchen counter in the middle of the night, listening to a random mix of the best songs ever, while one's adoring spouse fixes breakfast for you?
Just to give you an idea of where Mr. was at, here's part of a message he sent friends at around 2:30 in the afternoon...
"Tried to take a nap, but my brain's racing and can't get to sleep. To top it off, Serena ended up going and taking a nap, while I'm sitting here listening to Ernie hacking away and thinking of the brainless blueberry people of barmbaband who've come here to paint all houses yellow and all fences pink - no care at all for what you or I may think."
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Snacks
Don't ever let anyone tell you we don't know how to snack here at the Meinhold estates. Last Saturday was SS @ the Maxfields & they chose the theme 'pasta.' We wanted to do a dessert pasta.
First, I tried making chocolate linguine. It wasn't bad, but even with a cream sauce, it just seemed rich but not desserty. So, then I moved on to chocolate ravioli's which had a sweet ricotta/mascarpone filling with orange zest. That was better, but still not quite right.
Fortunately, Mr. became inspired by the idea of making fried cones out of boiled lasagna noodles. After a few trial errors, he discovered that the could wrap the noodles around a pastry nozzle to get the desired shape and then tap out the metal piece after the outside had hardened. He created a filling & set to work. Here is his recipe...
Lasagna Cannolis
Lasagna noodles
Cooking oil
Mini chocolate chips
Butter
Toffee pieces
Mascarpone cheese
Cream cheese
Ricotta cheese
Sugar
Vanilla extract
Hazelnut syrup
1. Boil lasagna noodles per package instructions. Cut noodles into quarters.
2. Heat a couple inches of oil in medium sauce pan for deep frying. I don't actually have a thermometer for checking the temperature, but you probably want about 300 degrees.
3. Form quartered noodles into "cone" shapes (I used the tip from a pastry bag), hold with tongs and put into oil just until the surface of the pasta starts to bubble and the noodle holds that shape, maybe 20-30 seconds. Remove from the oil, remove the form that you are using (pastry bag tip), then put the noodle back in until golden in color and crispy - about another 30-45 seconds (estimated times - base it on how hot/cold your oil is)
4. Put formed noodles onto paper towels to drain cool. You can then store them in a plastic bag for who knows how long, if you aren't going to finish them right away.
5. So you can dip the "cones", combine enough chocolate and butter in a thin and tall vessel and melt/mix together. I used a small glass for this. As to amounts, you'll have to base it on how many cones you have. I probably used a good size handful of chips and a tablespoon of butter. Put toffee pieces onto a small plate.
6. Dip the bottom of each cone in the chocolate and let the excess drip away, then roll into the toffee pieces. Place on a cookie sheet with wax paper and refrigerate so the chocolate hardens again.
7. Mix cheeses, sugar, vanilla and hazelnut syrup together. For about fourteen cones, I think that I used about 8 oz. Cream cheese, 4 oz. Mascarpone, and 2 oz. Ricotta. I had a little left over, but not a ton. I probably added about a half-cup of sugar, maybe a teaspoon each of the vanilla and the hazelnut. Just mix stuff and taste it until you like it - this isn't brain surgery. Put mixture into pastry bag and use tip with relatively small opening.
8. Take cones from fridge and pipe cheese mixture into each cone.
9. Put mini chocolate chips on plate and dip cheese at top of cones into chips.
10. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Not to be totally discouraged, I made crab rangoon from this recipe. They turned out really good. The only problem was that some of them cracked & the filling escaped. So, be really careful with the wontons when you're handling them.
Here are some pictures of our efforts. As you can see, there were a lot of rangoons & not nearly enough cannoli...
First, I tried making chocolate linguine. It wasn't bad, but even with a cream sauce, it just seemed rich but not desserty. So, then I moved on to chocolate ravioli's which had a sweet ricotta/mascarpone filling with orange zest. That was better, but still not quite right.
Fortunately, Mr. became inspired by the idea of making fried cones out of boiled lasagna noodles. After a few trial errors, he discovered that the could wrap the noodles around a pastry nozzle to get the desired shape and then tap out the metal piece after the outside had hardened. He created a filling & set to work. Here is his recipe...
Lasagna Cannolis
Lasagna noodles
Cooking oil
Mini chocolate chips
Butter
Toffee pieces
Mascarpone cheese
Cream cheese
Ricotta cheese
Sugar
Vanilla extract
Hazelnut syrup
1. Boil lasagna noodles per package instructions. Cut noodles into quarters.
2. Heat a couple inches of oil in medium sauce pan for deep frying. I don't actually have a thermometer for checking the temperature, but you probably want about 300 degrees.
3. Form quartered noodles into "cone" shapes (I used the tip from a pastry bag), hold with tongs and put into oil just until the surface of the pasta starts to bubble and the noodle holds that shape, maybe 20-30 seconds. Remove from the oil, remove the form that you are using (pastry bag tip), then put the noodle back in until golden in color and crispy - about another 30-45 seconds (estimated times - base it on how hot/cold your oil is)
4. Put formed noodles onto paper towels to drain cool. You can then store them in a plastic bag for who knows how long, if you aren't going to finish them right away.
5. So you can dip the "cones", combine enough chocolate and butter in a thin and tall vessel and melt/mix together. I used a small glass for this. As to amounts, you'll have to base it on how many cones you have. I probably used a good size handful of chips and a tablespoon of butter. Put toffee pieces onto a small plate.
6. Dip the bottom of each cone in the chocolate and let the excess drip away, then roll into the toffee pieces. Place on a cookie sheet with wax paper and refrigerate so the chocolate hardens again.
7. Mix cheeses, sugar, vanilla and hazelnut syrup together. For about fourteen cones, I think that I used about 8 oz. Cream cheese, 4 oz. Mascarpone, and 2 oz. Ricotta. I had a little left over, but not a ton. I probably added about a half-cup of sugar, maybe a teaspoon each of the vanilla and the hazelnut. Just mix stuff and taste it until you like it - this isn't brain surgery. Put mixture into pastry bag and use tip with relatively small opening.
8. Take cones from fridge and pipe cheese mixture into each cone.
9. Put mini chocolate chips on plate and dip cheese at top of cones into chips.
10. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Not to be totally discouraged, I made crab rangoon from this recipe. They turned out really good. The only problem was that some of them cracked & the filling escaped. So, be really careful with the wontons when you're handling them.
Here are some pictures of our efforts. As you can see, there were a lot of rangoons & not nearly enough cannoli...
Friday, August 7, 2009
Monday, August 3, 2009
On happiness
Our reality is our own, right? Sometimes it's hard to realize that whatever you're feeling, somebody (if not everyone) else has felt too. It is interesting to come across someone who has figured out or can at least describe some internal debate which one has been struggling with for years.
What are happiness and sadness really? Is it all just a constant play for control? Maybe these emotions come thru only in retrospect. Enjoying the here & now often seems quite a challenge (how long can a wonderful time be expected to last after all?)
Tim Kreider makes an exploration along these lines in his entry 'Averted Vision' on the Happy Days blog. Check it out.
What are happiness and sadness really? Is it all just a constant play for control? Maybe these emotions come thru only in retrospect. Enjoying the here & now often seems quite a challenge (how long can a wonderful time be expected to last after all?)
Tim Kreider makes an exploration along these lines in his entry 'Averted Vision' on the Happy Days blog. Check it out.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Head chef
Mr. made a special dinner yesterday for us, Jenny, Olivia and Michael who is going away to grad school.
I made a snack plate of cheese, olives, berries & cucumber slices with baguette to start. We snacked on that for an hour with drinks. Then it was time for serious eating!
We sat down to a spinach salad with sesame vinaigrette, apple & chevre. The main course was roasted pork (rubbed down with the garlic & herbs seen below), potatoes, asparagus & sautéed mushrooms. For dessert, he made a dark chocolate ice cream (the base seen below) with spices & walnuts in it and oatmeal-cherry cookies on the side. Yuuuuuuuuuum!
It sounds heavy for the summer, but it was actually perfect. I love being with someone who cooks so well (as dangerous as that is for my waistline). Left to my own devices, I am sure there'd be a lot more meals consisting of pb&j and tater tots:)
I made a snack plate of cheese, olives, berries & cucumber slices with baguette to start. We snacked on that for an hour with drinks. Then it was time for serious eating!
We sat down to a spinach salad with sesame vinaigrette, apple & chevre. The main course was roasted pork (rubbed down with the garlic & herbs seen below), potatoes, asparagus & sautéed mushrooms. For dessert, he made a dark chocolate ice cream (the base seen below) with spices & walnuts in it and oatmeal-cherry cookies on the side. Yuuuuuuuuuum!
It sounds heavy for the summer, but it was actually perfect. I love being with someone who cooks so well (as dangerous as that is for my waistline). Left to my own devices, I am sure there'd be a lot more meals consisting of pb&j and tater tots:)
Monday, July 27, 2009
Stupid technology ruining my life!
So, Curt switched out our computers and bought me a new camera on the same day. I am a mess! I am so flustered, I couldn't even properly set up a facebook page. Anyhow, here's me getting used to the camera...
New rubbish
On my walk this morning, I couldn't resist rifling thru a garbage can with parts of an old fire pit in it. I ended up carrying back the bowl in one hand and both of my whopping 2 lb weights in the other.
Now I just have to figure out what to do with it. We already have a fire pit, so I am thinking planter, fountain, hose holder, perhaps party hat. Any other suggestions?
Now I just have to figure out what to do with it. We already have a fire pit, so I am thinking planter, fountain, hose holder, perhaps party hat. Any other suggestions?
Monday, July 20, 2009
Dumpster divers
Wow! So, here's a great idea.
In the Arts section of today's NY Times, Melena Ryzik has an article about turning old dumpsters into swimming pools. I know, it sounds kind of gross. As far as I can make out though, once the new liner is in, it's no more disgusting than a regular pool.
Anyhow, it seems like a good answer to hot summer nights in big cities. Here's a link to the article.
In the Arts section of today's NY Times, Melena Ryzik has an article about turning old dumpsters into swimming pools. I know, it sounds kind of gross. As far as I can make out though, once the new liner is in, it's no more disgusting than a regular pool.
Anyhow, it seems like a good answer to hot summer nights in big cities. Here's a link to the article.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Why I don't exercise in public
Whenever I try to go to a gym, after about 20 minutes people start circling with concerned looks. Please, just let it go. It's bad enough going there at all, never mind turning purple and sweating like it's a sauna. How about if my husband promises not to sue you should I perish from my minor exertions?
Anyhow, in lieu of concerned strangers I have left the notion of going to a gym and traded up to non-judgemental friends. We go on a daily walk and they've even given me a elliptical. Today, I woke up feeling crummier than usual and skipped (arghhhhhh) the morning walk. Feeling guilty, I pumped up from the lowest setting on the machine to a resistance 3 with intervals of 4 (out of 20:) and slogged away for a half hour. Here's the moist result (pathetic)....
Anyhow, in lieu of concerned strangers I have left the notion of going to a gym and traded up to non-judgemental friends. We go on a daily walk and they've even given me a elliptical. Today, I woke up feeling crummier than usual and skipped (arghhhhhh) the morning walk. Feeling guilty, I pumped up from the lowest setting on the machine to a resistance 3 with intervals of 4 (out of 20:) and slogged away for a half hour. Here's the moist result (pathetic)....
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
7 Worlds Collide
I always envy how musicians can just get together and have a blast. It must be some wonderful feeling when you get together and create something interesting. I came across this project thanks to a Radiohead W.A.S.T.E. update. My favourite song so far is 'there is a light that never goes out'. Here's an overview of the project....
Friday, July 3, 2009
Tanking
Reading the NY Times headlines today has me a bit down. Unemployment is up (duh, still not great to see it confirmed in print) and the prospects for our slump turning any time are dim. There's not much to be done somehow. I suppose that we've all grown so complacent about it - even when we feel the pinch of having to give up a few of our ridiculously extravagant luxuries.
It's like the lady who's been living off cigarettes, gin & bonbons for the last 60 years. She knew it was wrong all along, but it all made life so much more bearable. Now her doctor says that she'll be horribly sick for the last 20 years and she's too lethargic to get remotely upset.
It's like the lady who's been living off cigarettes, gin & bonbons for the last 60 years. She knew it was wrong all along, but it all made life so much more bearable. Now her doctor says that she'll be horribly sick for the last 20 years and she's too lethargic to get remotely upset.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
New toy
In an ongoing effort, my friends are trying to help me get back in shape. Today Annelise & Jeff brought me this elliptical.
If we spent the big bucks on it ourselves, it would end up a clothing rack. Unfortunately, I'll have to find another place to dry pillowcases and such. Since this was a gift of sorts, hopefully it will guilt me into actually using the thing.
Anyhow, I went for 5 minutes with no resistance (the manual suggests this as the beginner's warm-up before actually going into the most basic workout). Let me just say that it seems highly unlikely I'll be scaling K2 anytime (ever) or the basement stairs (for now). Who knew that my thighs were made of jell-o? Guess it should have been apparent by the nonstop jiggling.
It's off to the nutritionist on Tuesday. It will be 'interesting' (read as horrifying) to figure out all the things that need to change. At this point, taking up smoking might actually make me healthier!
If we spent the big bucks on it ourselves, it would end up a clothing rack. Unfortunately, I'll have to find another place to dry pillowcases and such. Since this was a gift of sorts, hopefully it will guilt me into actually using the thing.
Anyhow, I went for 5 minutes with no resistance (the manual suggests this as the beginner's warm-up before actually going into the most basic workout). Let me just say that it seems highly unlikely I'll be scaling K2 anytime (ever) or the basement stairs (for now). Who knew that my thighs were made of jell-o? Guess it should have been apparent by the nonstop jiggling.
It's off to the nutritionist on Tuesday. It will be 'interesting' (read as horrifying) to figure out all the things that need to change. At this point, taking up smoking might actually make me healthier!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Dogboy
Well, Jeff has a new buddy 'Arlo' to swim with. Curt has fully accepted him with open paws too...
Monday, June 15, 2009
Yeah
I look a little like over-boiled pasta here, but it was bliss!
If I ever get a high-paying job, we are getting a hot tub. I don't care if we only have the time for it once in a blue moon, they are still awesome.
If I ever get a high-paying job, we are getting a hot tub. I don't care if we only have the time for it once in a blue moon, they are still awesome.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Corolla
I know, you're thinking beer. That's Corona.
I am also not talking about the Toyota we used to have.
No, this Corolla is where we went on vacation. In season it's a crowded hell hole of a vacation land north of Kill Devil Hills, Duck, and just south of the Virginia line on the outer banks.
However, if you drive 10 miles up the beach to a beautiful rental house with a bunch of friends, it becomes paradise!
We looooooooooooooved it.
There were wild horses, dolphins and pelicans (that's alligators to Adam and penguins to Curt). There were seashells, jellyfish the size of hubcaps and small rays washed up all along the daily death march to False Cape State Park (in Virginia).
In the evenings, there was a rotating dinner responsibility and 3 couples who make their own wine. Yum!
We spent hours at night in the hot tub looking up at the stars
I polished off the Omnivore's Dilemma which left me feeling that there's no way to get around eating junk, so I might as well give up and become a full fledged coke (cola) head. I also read a Carl Hiassen book.
Curt read a book about the history of Rum (opressions galore). Deb read The Five People You Meet in Heaven and Sean got through most of a thick biography. I think Adam had us all beat though - he actually ran out of stuff to read!
It was great to unwind together and to leave the pets at home. I can't even recall the last time that Curt and I really went on vacation together without them. Maybe the New Orleans trip?
Michael did us such a huuuuuuuge favor in watching over Midian and the pups and the house, etc. I can't even begin to describe how wonderful it was to be able to just relax with a trusted friend watching over everything here. We owe him big time!
So, the week was perfection and Curt's work was only a little screwed upon our return. We are so rested and relaxed - I hope that will last us until next year when we get to go again! YAY!
I am also not talking about the Toyota we used to have.
No, this Corolla is where we went on vacation. In season it's a crowded hell hole of a vacation land north of Kill Devil Hills, Duck, and just south of the Virginia line on the outer banks.
However, if you drive 10 miles up the beach to a beautiful rental house with a bunch of friends, it becomes paradise!
We looooooooooooooved it.
There were wild horses, dolphins and pelicans (that's alligators to Adam and penguins to Curt). There were seashells, jellyfish the size of hubcaps and small rays washed up all along the daily death march to False Cape State Park (in Virginia).
In the evenings, there was a rotating dinner responsibility and 3 couples who make their own wine. Yum!
We spent hours at night in the hot tub looking up at the stars
I polished off the Omnivore's Dilemma which left me feeling that there's no way to get around eating junk, so I might as well give up and become a full fledged coke (cola) head. I also read a Carl Hiassen book.
Curt read a book about the history of Rum (opressions galore). Deb read The Five People You Meet in Heaven and Sean got through most of a thick biography. I think Adam had us all beat though - he actually ran out of stuff to read!
It was great to unwind together and to leave the pets at home. I can't even recall the last time that Curt and I really went on vacation together without them. Maybe the New Orleans trip?
Michael did us such a huuuuuuuge favor in watching over Midian and the pups and the house, etc. I can't even begin to describe how wonderful it was to be able to just relax with a trusted friend watching over everything here. We owe him big time!
So, the week was perfection and Curt's work was only a little screwed upon our return. We are so rested and relaxed - I hope that will last us until next year when we get to go again! YAY!
Undone
Before our vacation, we were in a creative mode. So, I actually picked up my brushes. As usual, I came up with a basic idea, got the under painting done and then flaked.
So, we took down the unfinished piece that had been hanging by the front door for a couple of years in order to put this new slash of guilt up.
Now we are back from our days in the sun and I can't figure how to finish out either painting!
Here's the newer mess. The sky is sort of interesting, but it needs something (people falling out of a basket, birds carrying off poodles, etc) and it'd be good to get some signs of life in the hills too. Right now, it looks like a stormy but dead place to me - not really the kind of vibe I would want to pursue somehow.
So, we took down the unfinished piece that had been hanging by the front door for a couple of years in order to put this new slash of guilt up.
Now we are back from our days in the sun and I can't figure how to finish out either painting!
Here's the newer mess. The sky is sort of interesting, but it needs something (people falling out of a basket, birds carrying off poodles, etc) and it'd be good to get some signs of life in the hills too. Right now, it looks like a stormy but dead place to me - not really the kind of vibe I would want to pursue somehow.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
The honey wagon
It's a bit nasty, but someone has to pump septic tanks. Actually, our neighbor Jim does a great job (no sign of poops escaping)! One day he'll return to his true calling - running a recycling center. Until then, here's a picture of his truck in the garden & a bit of a plug for Vann Boys...
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
My best summer day
Our anniversary is today. We've been married 9 years!
Every year just gets better and better. We have great friends and family, a beautiful home and lots of opportunities to relax together. What more could a gal ask for?
Even nature is kicking in. Here are the tiger lilies which burst into bloom today...
Every year just gets better and better. We have great friends and family, a beautiful home and lots of opportunities to relax together. What more could a gal ask for?
Even nature is kicking in. Here are the tiger lilies which burst into bloom today...
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