tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40312962763590935412024-03-18T14:17:45.741-04:00A Precious Environment"if you make a precious environment, then what's inside is precious, too."Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.comBlogger296125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-21809252023558697382012-09-07T10:15:00.000-04:002012-09-07T10:15:00.326-04:00Say Goodbye to Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gentle readers, it's been a long hot and supremely busy summer. And we've had little time for this blog.</div>
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But don't worry! Our environment is still precious - we've even been making some changes to make it even more inviting and, ultimately, more practical.</div>
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So.</div>
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What have we been doing that's kept us away?</div>
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We went to the park</div>
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We had some adult beverages</div>
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We saw some friends play music</div>
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We went to a whole slew (<b>five!!!</b>) of weddings</div>
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We ate some tasty food</div>
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We got away</div>
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And kitten slept</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-20396455934824599682012-06-01T09:30:00.000-04:002012-06-01T09:30:02.567-04:00Responsibility: It's Just A Kitten?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As you read on Tuesday your MatchGirl and I have a new addition to our family. We adopted a kitten from the local shelter.<br />
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This has me thinking about responsibility. <br />
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There is a lot to be said on the topic.<br />
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Here is my take.<br />
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Responsibility is hard, it is often not taking the easy route, it is also something that is very important when others are involved. <br />
Responsibility means sometimes you have to come straight home because someone (Kitten, not Girlfriend) needs to be let out of her day-prison (the bathroom, only until she becomes acquainted with our home).<br />
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Responsibility also means setting aside money for a rainy day instead of buying bike stuff.<br />
Responsibility means putting the well being of the whole ahead of one's self. I can safely safe I've reached this point in my life.<br />
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I might be painting an ugly picture of myself but, yes, these are things that have come to mind just this week. I have been an irresponsible person at times in my life. As I get older, I realize this is not the way one acts when they care about and want someone to share a life with them or take care of a little helpless creature. <br />
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It could be said that I should have reached this point years ago and I wont argue with that. Except to say: I didn't. I guess, better late then never.<br />
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I know I've got some catching up to do but I truly want to be where I am, with the person (and kitten) I'm there with. Here's to the next stage...<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: Charlotte-Kitten and your MatchGirl surfing the web</span></i><br />
<br />jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610879665478059836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-68063855261394943042012-05-30T09:02:00.000-04:002012-05-30T09:02:00.381-04:00New Addition: Welcome, Charlotte!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Boyfriend and your MatchGirl welcomed a new addition to our little family over the weekend - our little kitten, Charlotte.</div>
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Keep scrolling for more cuteness!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbwuACFjf8W-G9ytvb4CmJxl3T4r-tDlY7_ncIRicuf4ybaMmNnn96htgeeUpZj5cJ6RniSRqc4vK0APOleT7llU8C2-mX5Owx8MvyCoUSu1KM_TWJfELFapSIvfBgT4_a46S3NuEbIU/s640/blogger-image-1207323060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbwuACFjf8W-G9ytvb4CmJxl3T4r-tDlY7_ncIRicuf4ybaMmNnn96htgeeUpZj5cJ6RniSRqc4vK0APOleT7llU8C2-mX5Owx8MvyCoUSu1KM_TWJfELFapSIvfBgT4_a46S3NuEbIU/s640/blogger-image-1207323060.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-91224025982106354092012-05-29T09:02:00.000-04:002012-05-29T09:02:00.355-04:00Menu Plan: Week Fifty-Four<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gentle readers, Memorial Day weekend brings us to week fifty-four (can you believe it!?) of menu planning.<br />
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If you are regular readers of this blog, you'll notice that as I settle into my new gig it's the only thing we've kept consistent. The menu plan was even the <a href="http://www.precious-environment.com/2012/05/menu-plan-week-fifty-three.html" target="_blank">only post</a> last week!<br />
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Monday was Memorial Day - we picnicked in the park after a lazy morning and ate a steak salad for dinner.<br />
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Tuesday: I've got CM Meetup. Boyfriend says he'll eat fried chicken<br />
Wednesday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/316169/two-pea-pasta-with-ricotta-and-tarragon" target="_blank">Pasta with peas and ricotta</a><br />
Thursday: We'll try this vegetarian <a href="http://thewimpyvegetarian.com/2012/04/warm-farro-salad-with-spring-vegetables/" target="_blank">farro salad</a><br />
Friday: A light meal out before we head to Johnny and Angelica's wedding reception<br />
Saturday: Country Captain Chicken ... maybe <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/30-minute-southern-classic-country-captain-chicken-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">this recipe</a>, maybe another...<br />
Sunday: Boyfriend loves Mexican food - I'm thinking Sunday will be taco night<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo: shades of pink from our Memorial Day picnic</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-39574605840464122862012-05-21T09:00:00.000-04:002012-05-21T09:00:15.729-04:00Menu Plan: Week Fifty-Three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We're entering year one, week one of menu planning, gentle readers.<br />
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It's been a great year and we're excited to keep pushing forward, trying new foods and sharing new things with you.<br />
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Girlfriend spent Sunday with a terrible headache, so I'm on menu planning duty (which is OK, since I do most of the cooking anyway).<br />
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Monday: Girlfriend demands "awesome Kale salad"<br />
Tuesday: This <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bistro-bacon-salad-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">bacon and poached egg</a> salad<br />
Wednesday: Thai Peanut noodles<br />
Thursday: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/roman-style-chicken-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">Roman chicken salad</a><br />
Friday: Take-Out Night<br />
Saturday/Sunday: We're still figuring out Memorial Day weekend plans ... so we'll leave this up in the air for a little while longer.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: I made a lasagne that would make even Garfield excited...</span></i>jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610879665478059836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-81769273256648749422012-05-15T09:02:00.000-04:002012-05-15T09:02:00.392-04:00Fifty Two Weeks! Now What?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yesterday we share the <a href="http://www.precious-environment.com/2012/05/happy-anniversary-menu-plan.html" target="_blank"><b>ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY</b></a> of the Menu Plan with you, dear readers.<br />
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And you may be asking yourself, now what?<br />
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Will they continue on this path of planning?<br />
Or will they join the rest of the working 30-somethings they know and come home from work, staring into the fridge, unclear as to what they are going to make for dinner?<br />
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Gentle readers, I can assure you that the menu plan will continue.<br />
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We're always looking for exciting new things to share with you here, so if it changes a bit and that's for the better - then that's what will happen.<br />
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But, until that evolution happens, we'll be cooking away in our little blue kitchen.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: our kitchen</span></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-52894772736924001002012-05-14T09:15:00.000-04:002012-05-14T09:15:00.225-04:00Happy Anniversary, Menu Plan!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gentle readers, this marks the one year anniversary of menu planning.<br />
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It's amazing to see how far we've come since we first started <a href="http://www.precious-environment.com/2011/04/menu-plan-week-one.html" target="_blank">menu planning fifty-two weeks ago</a>.<br />
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We'd love to do some fancy planning here, something amazing and special, but, the fact of the matter is that we started menu planning because we are two very busy people on a fairly tight budget.<br />
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And this week is no different.<br />
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Monday: For burrito night last week, Boyfriend made chili-verde chicken (with leftover chicken from Sunday's supper), and we've still got some of that hanging out.<br />
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Tuesday: We're going to an early show at The Living Room, to see my dear old friend <a href="http://marcpinansky.bandcamp.com/" target="_blank">Marc Pinansky</a> play some awesome tunes, so we'll eat out in the LES.<br />
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Wednesday: I've got plans for drinks with some friends, and Boyfriend has plans as well ... we're on our own for food.<br />
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Thursday: Niçoise Salad<br />
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Friday: We're always exhausted by the time Friday rolls around, so Anita's <a href="http://www.food52.com/recipes/16434_beet_capellini_with_pistachios" target="_blank">Beet Pasta</a> recipe will be perfect.<br />
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Saturday: It's our friend Nina's 30th Birthday party, and it starts early. We'll grab a bite out in the 'hood on our way over.<br />
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Sunday: Boyfriend says he wants to have a proper Italian Sunday Supper - whether this involves a pasta dish with meatballs or something along the lines of lasagne, he's not sure yet...<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo: Coffee and water, from a Sunday brunch at Enid's in Greenpoint</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-67848763158421547882012-05-10T09:01:00.000-04:002012-05-10T09:01:00.101-04:00Mother's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPM66wzK82yUMvEkUbN5uWjPMP_NhZwnk3OVfIFkjzj_AwnkrqCNA0BEHmMM8PT03_vKGavOTvkod80iiC6qLo3MOzfyRb2fL9oHo8q3P4-lnboeCMXwHL5qXI773PnHM8IlRBsjB5yIE/s1600/1281048716105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPM66wzK82yUMvEkUbN5uWjPMP_NhZwnk3OVfIFkjzj_AwnkrqCNA0BEHmMM8PT03_vKGavOTvkod80iiC6qLo3MOzfyRb2fL9oHo8q3P4-lnboeCMXwHL5qXI773PnHM8IlRBsjB5yIE/s320/1281048716105.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This Sunday is Mother's Day. I'm a mother's boy, I won't deny it.<br />
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I can only think of two Mother's Days I haven't spent with my mom.<br />
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This will be the third and since this blog is huge with moms I present a Mother's Day tribute.<br />
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Mom, you and I know that you did the best you could with what you had. The situation was not always ideal. Guess what - you helped form three really amazing kids. We are for the most part, smart, responsible (my sisters, anyway), thoughtful, caring, good people. This doesn't just happen. Maybe once, but not three times. This is the result of some amazing parenting.<br />
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Mom, you taught us to care about others, appreciate art and culture, be dignified people, and most of all try to do the right thing always. As usual I would like to say more but it is easier to say less so I will leave it at this.<br />
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Mom, I love you.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: a floral arrangement from a Martha Stewart event your MatchGirl attended a while back...</span></i>jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610879665478059836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-24674246181188097982012-05-08T09:01:00.000-04:002012-05-08T09:01:00.408-04:00Stocking Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gentle readers, as you well know, your MatchGirl and Boyfriend have been <a href="http://www.precious-environment.com/search/label/menu%20planning%20for%20two" target="_blank">menu planning</a> for almost a year.<br />
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You'd think that because of this, we're pretty organized and have an awesomely stocked pantry.<br />
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We don't have a ton of space in our kitchen so we tend not to stock up on a lot of things.<br />
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But there are some things that we always have.<br />
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Pasta, two or three open boxes.<br />
Brown rice.<br />
A couple of boxes of <a href="http://www.pomi.us.com/home.php" target="_blank">Pomi tomatoes</a>.<br />
Oatmeal.<br />
Soy milk in the fridge.<br />
A couple of quarts of Boyfriend's homemade stock in the freezer.<br />
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When I used to bake a lot, I always made sure to have a pound of butter, a carton of eggs and plenty of flour and sugar on hand for any experiments I might want to whip up. The small kitchen and my busy work and online life mean I spend a lot less time baking ... whether we're stocked up on those things or not.<br />
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Not a lot, huh?<br />
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We're lucky to have a variety of markets nearby. And while part of the reason for making the menu plan is to save some money and plan ahead, we don't always find the time to do that "stocking up" shopping in advance.<br />
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So? What are the staples in your pantry?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-8776594951613872792012-05-07T09:01:00.000-04:002012-05-07T09:01:00.467-04:00Menu Plan: Week Fifty-One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gentle readers ... next week marks one year of menu planning! Can you believe how far we've come?<div>
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Nearly a year into our little project, we're still getting the hang of things, figuring out how to best shop for the week at hand and learning the patterns of what we will and won't bother to make when the end of the week nears...</div>
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Anyway! We'll talk more about that next week. </div>
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Thanks to Sunday's chicken roast, we've got some yummy leftovers for the week ahead.</div>
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Monday: I will make a stir-fry with panut sauce - rice noodle and tofu</div>
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Tuesday: We're going to a birthday party, so we'll eat quick and easy at home. The perfect evening for some leftover Bolognese that Boyfriend took out of the freezer.</div>
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Wednesday: I have an event and will be home after dinner time. Boyfriend will have a) a sandwich b) tacos or c) pizza ... one never knows. ;)</div>
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Thursday: Veggie lasagne</div>
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Friday: Boyfriend wants to make tostadas either with chicken or <a href="http://www.melissas.com/Products/Products/Soyrizo.aspx" target="_blank">soyrizo</a>, we're undecided</div>
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Saturday: Boyfriend calls date night</div>
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Sunday: Pulled pork a la Boyfriend</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo: a simple little snack of hummus and a cucumber, tomato and feta salad - awesome after hot yoga!</i></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-87608969549299717612012-05-03T09:15:00.000-04:002012-05-03T09:15:00.079-04:00The First Saturday in May<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2vtg9NyQ1E064SFvcDcAVM_47Oual3FSPtNPbwYr0uEcfa_a-k2qfGHILaPItQxyj9L-FARU0ayHQnwvFsh3V8zRdweu8OfpRkq5erwc8tc_c-KKuO83LQ6GHxPssdDLcHoPpbbrzOk/s1600/ChurchillDowns2-0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2vtg9NyQ1E064SFvcDcAVM_47Oual3FSPtNPbwYr0uEcfa_a-k2qfGHILaPItQxyj9L-FARU0ayHQnwvFsh3V8zRdweu8OfpRkq5erwc8tc_c-KKuO83LQ6GHxPssdDLcHoPpbbrzOk/s400/ChurchillDowns2-0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This Saturday is the Kentucky Derby. The most exciting two minutes in sports. Perhaps my favorite sporting event of the year to base a party around. Sure, some, if not most, love a good Super Bowl party- but not this guy. I'm a Derby party man.<br />
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I can remember being into the Derby as a kid. Even though I didn't understand the odds and thought 250-1 was a good thing, I loved how thrilling it was to watch the horses battle for the lead. I've some fond memories of watching on TV with my mother. Needless to say, the Derby holds a warm place in my heart.<br />
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In what must have been 2005 or 2006, I set myself to hosting a Kentucky Derby party. I did my homework and crafted a Mint Julep recipe, bought some snacks and invited some friends over for the race. Let's just say that I was more prepared than anyone else. I neglected to realize that most of my friends were not as nerdy about this sort of thing as I. Nobody wore hats, there was much confusion as to how long the race would last, and worst of all, most preferred beer to Juleps. We all had a good time that year and subsequent years got better. Never the dandy southern fest I would have imagined, but good times amongst friends are really all you can ask for.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to 2009 and I'm on the verge of moving across the country to a huge city where I know about three people. One of them I had only just met, your MatchGirl. Being the paradigm of class and manners, she invited me to attend the annual Derby party hosted by her Kentucky born and raised roommate and herself. I was thrilled at the prospect of being invited to a social event even BEFORE arriving in the Big Apple. The day came and I arrived in all my scruffy doesn't-everyone-in-Brooklyn-look-like-a-homeless-lumberjack glory. I was a bit underwhelming to say the least. I did, however, have a great time and met some people who would later become friends. I also will say, whether we want to admit it or not, that was the day the real foundation of our relationship was laid down. I didn't go to the party looking for love, your MatchGirl didn't invite me to the party because she was into me (she, in fact, will say she thought I was less than appealing), she did it because she wanted to bring people together.<br />
<br />
That party did bring us together in a way. It turned a friend of a friend into a friend. From there things took a bit of a winding course, but here we are. As I think about this Saturday's upcoming Derby party I can't help but smile at the way things work out.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Image via <a href="http://www.oldlouisville.com/" target="_blank">Old Louisville Guide</a></i></span>jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610879665478059836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-49376701068416194052012-04-30T09:01:00.000-04:002012-04-30T09:01:00.559-04:00Menu Plan: Week Fifty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We're in the home stretch now, gentle readers, only two more weeks till we hit a year of menu plans!<br />
<br />
Last week, Boyfriend posted the <a href="http://www.precious-environment.com/2012/04/menu-plan-week-forty-nine.html" target="_blank">menu plan</a>. We didn't do so good ... but, I've got to say, you're MatchGirl is not disappointed. The substitutions that we were made were pretty tasty, for sure. And some of those substitutions were made due to me having to work later than expected.<br />
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For instance, look at the picture here - your MatchGirl came home from a long day at her new gig and these mussels were waiting when she arrived home! Surprise favorite meal at the end of a long day!<br />
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Your MatchGirl has also been buying lunch every day - not too smart in midtown - it's a pricey expenditure. This week, I hope to make the menu plan also cover some leftovers for lunch!<br />
<br />
Monday: Stoked on this pasta recipe with turkey and broccoli and orecchiette from <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/pasta-turkey-broccoli-00100000074825/index.html?xid=dailyrecnews-04-25-2012" target="_blank">Real Simple</a>.<br />
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Tuesday: Sweet potato tacos - I used to make these years ago, with sweet potato, tofu and cheddar ... I can't find the recipe, but they're pretty simple, filling and really tasty.<br />
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Wednesday: Boyfriend's famous arugula and steak salad.<br />
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Thursday: We are going to see some music at <a href="http://www.google.com/local_url?q=http://sycamorebrooklyn.com/&dq=+1118+Cortelyou+Rd+Brooklyn,+NY+11218&f=q&source=s_q&output=js&hl=en&geocode=&abauth=4f9d9f1fBbJ-aBza5Z_DQkG_OEc11vY4lks&authuser=0&aq=&vps=1&jsv=409c&sll=40.63988,-73.96744&sspn=0.303764,0.584335&vpsrc=6&dirflg=r&ttype=now&noexp=0&noal=0&sort=def&oi=miw&sa=X&ct=miw_link&cd=1&cad=homepage,cid:1016183713783511138&ei=rK6dT6XFOYmv8gbl5rjPAg&s=ANYYN7k9o9Z9GipZc3NOMFRTJ1uF4xE28g" target="_blank">Sycamore</a>, I have a plan of making it a date night and eating somewhere along the way.<br />
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Friday: Pasta primavera with shrimp.<br />
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Saturday: Cinco de Mayo! And the Kentucky Derby! We;ll be spending the day celebrating and snacking!<br />
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Sunday: I like the idea of a roast chicken with some sides. Which will hopefully leave some leftovers for my Monday lunch ...<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: awesome mussels a la Boyfriend!</span></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-92034951512629991492012-04-27T09:01:00.000-04:002012-04-27T09:01:00.500-04:00Thirty-Eight Years Down ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is your MatchGirl's parent's 38th wedding anniversary.<br />
<br />
Your MatchGirl would like to take this space to thank them - because no matter how tough or amazing things were - economically, personally, physically, you know... how life goes - over the years, they have always showed me a shining example of what a marriage is supposed to be about.<br />
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Friendship. Partnership. And most of all, love throughout it all.<br />
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Knowing what can be. That's what matters. Thanks for giving me the best gift that any girl could ask for.<br />
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I love you, Mom and Dad.<br />
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I hope you have a beautiful day!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo: your MatchGirl's mom and dad at a cousin's wedding circa 1999</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-86976334309542549672012-04-26T09:01:00.000-04:002012-04-26T09:01:00.397-04:00Raising the Bar: Martini<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This week, readers, we will return to the cocktail.<br />
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I would like to address the mother of all cocktails, the Martini.<br />
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A simple drink with many complexities, the martini is my go-to at home drink.<br />
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Here are my rules:<br />
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Gin, always gin - Shaken not stirred.<br />
Don't worry about "bruising" the gin. Wherever this term came from I don't know but it's pretty dumb if you think about it.<br />
I like my martini really shaken hard. This breaks up the ice and really chills the drink, giving you more leisurely sipping time.<br />
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Olives are delicious but I don't want them in my drink. Just a twist if there is some lemon around. If not I don't mind.<br />
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Here it is! The recipe for Jon's Perfect Martini<br />
2oz Gin<br />
.5 oz Dry Vermouth<br />
Pour into a shaker with 3-4 big ice cubes and shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.<br />
Pour into chilled cocktail glass and enjoy as soon as you get home from a long day.<br />
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- Boyfriend</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo: Boyfriend's perfect martini</i></span></div>jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610879665478059836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-68578700063196770482012-04-25T09:19:00.000-04:002012-04-25T09:19:00.289-04:00Cheers!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4cblvNe-qcI3_lrTQQHkNKaC85bn5HBH9ZnBVGBTa5ojceE1LGXMv7TMFtCaVhszpoCj7Mj7GhlQOqRUCTK3qkIBf7FUkYhgUljnJDKpSurrK-Cc-sKZ6kKHfy07aBjejnKLVK8-Agc/s1600/IMG_0584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4cblvNe-qcI3_lrTQQHkNKaC85bn5HBH9ZnBVGBTa5ojceE1LGXMv7TMFtCaVhszpoCj7Mj7GhlQOqRUCTK3qkIBf7FUkYhgUljnJDKpSurrK-Cc-sKZ6kKHfy07aBjejnKLVK8-Agc/s400/IMG_0584.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Happy Wednesday, gentle readers!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-27442692471203205562012-04-24T09:02:00.000-04:002012-04-24T09:02:00.186-04:00Day by Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2OVe5i1TE1tD7ATQg1whDLd-3aZ5fTeqRETBVNtqBEzTj3IhwygZZdKY0F_cHs7H1Grvu0Dihw6ukA3PshJ_ew-199uB_IzKb_AAnX6j7FQNW1K7FHBCSD8PHaPWhIVzZd-xtVNEQUg0/s1600/IMG_0577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2OVe5i1TE1tD7ATQg1whDLd-3aZ5fTeqRETBVNtqBEzTj3IhwygZZdKY0F_cHs7H1Grvu0Dihw6ukA3PshJ_ew-199uB_IzKb_AAnX6j7FQNW1K7FHBCSD8PHaPWhIVzZd-xtVNEQUg0/s320/IMG_0577.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
How cool was that, gentle readers? Boyfriend posting the <a href="http://www.precious-environment.com/2012/04/menu-plan-week-forty-nine.html" target="_blank">menu plan</a> when I was ... well ... indisposed is the polite way to say it, your MatchGirl supposes.<br />
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It's nice to know that when I'm sick, I can rely on Boyfriend to carry the heavy load - everything from making sure there is plenty of fizzy water and a sleeve of Saltines to my making sure my computer is charged and that the menu plan gets posted in time. Day by day ... I'm a lucky girl.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo: that's what Boyfriend looks like when I kiss him.</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-86203489133403100832012-04-23T09:00:00.000-04:002012-04-23T09:00:02.472-04:00Menu Plan: Week Forty-Nine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Girlfriend is out sick, gentle readers so I am here to fill in the menu plan.<br />
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As much as I would like to populate the menu with "boy food" I will not take advantage of my lovely girlfriend's illness.<br />
<br />
So here goes.<br />
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Monday: We are going to see a concert so dinner will be taken on the go. There has been a lot of this lately and as much as New York has some of the best eating in the world I am very tired of eating out. I really love cooking and eating at home.<br />
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Tuesday: It's been a while so lets bring back kale/white bean/protein delight. This was a dish that got a little overplayed this winter but I'm feeling in the mood. Also, Tuesday is the first mellow night at home we've had in a couple weeks so the ease factor is important.<br />
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Wednesday: Salmon Burgers w/a nice salad<br />
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Thursday: I have a close friend who is going to be in town for a couple days so we will probably be out with him<br />
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Friday: Burger Night. I have a mix of ground meats in the freezer from last week's meatloaf so let's get burgery on a Friday night.<br />
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Saturday: I want to do something good and time consuming that will involve pulled pork.<br />
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Sunday: Hopefully we can have the rescheduled(derailed by girlfriends illness) Sunday dinner with or friends the Mullersons.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo: revamped Mugs Bloody Mary</span></i>jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610879665478059836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-57978390922822766742012-04-19T09:34:00.001-04:002012-04-19T09:45:12.264-04:00The Little ThingsAnother Thursday Post from Boyfriend. <br />
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I really hate my job. <br />
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It is a physical and mental strain just to be there, unfortunately this is what I have right now. As I toil away at the old salt mine I have to take pleasure in small things. Recently your MatchGirl started to freelance at a firm with an office near my cafe. This means I get an almost daily visit from my love. <br />
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It is amazing how much this cheers me up. Even though we spend a lot of time together at home we have always worked in different parts of the city and on pretty different schedules. It's funny how these 5-10 minute visits can brighten even the gloomiest day.<br />
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Thanks, Girlfriend. <br />
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Gentle readers, do you recall that website, <a href="http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.com/" target="_blank">Stuff White People Like</a>?<br />
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Well, Boyfriend and your MatchGirl seem to have become two of those yuppie-fied white people. Our new couple's activity? Hot yoga.<br />
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Yep. You read it right. We've started going to <a href="http://yogatothepeople.com/" target="_blank">Yoga To The People</a> in Williamsburg. Boyfriend says it's the only type of yoga he likes...<br />
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How long do you think we'll be able to keep it up?<br />
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True to form, I like to dress awesome for yoga. In a room that is over 107° F, that's not easy. I'm lucky that my friends at <a href="http://shop.theonzie.com/" target="_blank">Onzie</a> have super cute patterns and cuts. Boyfriend likes to wear the best performance gear possible, too. But he's not quite ready for these short shorts...<br />
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Oh, and if you're interested in how you can stay healthy - check out <a href="http://wellness0418.eventbrite.com/" target="_blank">this event</a> I'm hosting TONIGHT in Brooklyn!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo: labeled free to use from this <a href="http://juicefeasting.blogspot.com/2008_05_01_archive.html" target="_blank">blog</a>.</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-71080900877923199592012-04-17T09:00:00.000-04:002012-04-17T09:00:03.918-04:00Do You ...Last week Boyfriend and your MatchGirl went to see Pulp not once, but twice!<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Here is how the show began - right before the broke into <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTo7wKumolU" target="_blank">Do You Remember the First Time</a>?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUH-FjQQkCs9LSARXRxrpp1JBAlBZ5Ot4KdR31DoJwWGIFSVmKnh4oWZv1pv4DeUSouv_6lwhW_lfY0dVHZjoWd_D1QDUneKyutRp-KaY2W8hcg8Y4kbujxSFz0W9bGuKjEuMVB15qE_Q/s1600/photo+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUH-FjQQkCs9LSARXRxrpp1JBAlBZ5Ot4KdR31DoJwWGIFSVmKnh4oWZv1pv4DeUSouv_6lwhW_lfY0dVHZjoWd_D1QDUneKyutRp-KaY2W8hcg8Y4kbujxSFz0W9bGuKjEuMVB15qE_Q/s320/photo+(4).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Gentle readers, as you can tell by our lack of postings last week - it was a CRAZY BUSY WEEK!<br />
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Your MatchGirl started a new freelance gig, which means heading into Manhattan during the day and we went to see Pulp not one night, but, TWO! On the weekend we had a date night and attended bachelor and bachelorette parties. We stuck, mostly, to the menu plan, but, then again, there was not much on it. We knew we'd be out.</div>
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This week is more of the same, with your MatchGirl attending a networking event on Tuesday evening and <a href="http://wellness0418.eventbrite.com/" target="_blank">co-hosting one</a> on Wednesday evening.</div>
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Monday: Black bean tacos with corn salsa</div>
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Tuesday: Snacks after the event. Boyfriend has a friend in town, so maybe he'll go out.</div>
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Wednesday: More snacks for </div>
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Thursday: Boyfriend will make meatloaf</div>
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Friday: We're hoping to get into Paulie Gee's for dinner with visiting friends.</div>
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Saturday: We're attending a four year old's birthday party in NJ in the afternoon and our friends are in town from Rhode Island.</div>
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Sunday: We're heading to the home of some friends for a little Sunday supper. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-73255874783231676872012-04-10T09:01:00.000-04:002012-04-10T09:01:00.708-04:00Recipe: Savory Muffins<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7FZUXsn2tZKzLY2hchdHhZhYB1LI1IjnHXeOuw8tg7zS77mFkXF74A2IqAcaL7xZJZbaC2UwHWxnJc7MHc6Fk1Yl2218UKwT7k62yTCXF32BBP5mlJ_x9_8BwO1pKccXy34r9gcz3KU/s640/blogger-image-1140850417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7FZUXsn2tZKzLY2hchdHhZhYB1LI1IjnHXeOuw8tg7zS77mFkXF74A2IqAcaL7xZJZbaC2UwHWxnJc7MHc6Fk1Yl2218UKwT7k62yTCXF32BBP5mlJ_x9_8BwO1pKccXy34r9gcz3KU/s320/blogger-image-1140850417.jpg" width="320" /></a>Gentle readers, this weekend your MatchGirl and Boyfriend entertained a few friends for what my little posse refers to as "drunk Easter." The tradition started many years ago, on an unusually bright and sunny Easter Sunday.<br />
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If memory serves, the first one involved a British fry up, some boys in pastel suits, a walk over the Williamsburg bridge, a rooftop sing-a-long in the East Village and perhaps some steaks... As it's "drunk Easter," it also involved the drinking of a bunch of alcohol, so you'll forgive my fuzzy memory.<br />
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As we've aged, met new hunnys and settled into our lives, drunk Easter has evolved, but we still manage to get together and have great food and some awesome drinks.<br />
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This year, Boyfriend and I hosted and I made some awesome, savory muffins, inspired by <a href="http://ecogastronomy.org/recipes/savory-muffins" target="_blank">this recipe</a>. Photos follow ...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4geDgVFXgu_h2KXnSAlNc1IZH1jkjeVX5ilJ38nGB9J5cc4vtoEB1sxp7qVPBGa5DomRKagoATDKeviTmCYucwlTOM6AvWFCuEfc132ST9jUllHfNNHMnsk22PzGbKho3YYzSOAK_c0/s640/blogger-image--2134934717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4geDgVFXgu_h2KXnSAlNc1IZH1jkjeVX5ilJ38nGB9J5cc4vtoEB1sxp7qVPBGa5DomRKagoATDKeviTmCYucwlTOM6AvWFCuEfc132ST9jUllHfNNHMnsk22PzGbKho3YYzSOAK_c0/s400/blogger-image--2134934717.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bacon to be chopped up and sprinkled on top</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTykLNUyDD5emLVy2BpYzkbUTFHC3iKmfs8250_8Sva4uUxpVZ3kL-jT1KcWQWjJru8CuW-4eSsZ-rSOb3_ey6SUri7Ps4gEIg8DF6tjy23AYkTpEaZ4O6635P47B9KH2why_Wg5sJoc/s640/blogger-image--759195872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTykLNUyDD5emLVy2BpYzkbUTFHC3iKmfs8250_8Sva4uUxpVZ3kL-jT1KcWQWjJru8CuW-4eSsZ-rSOb3_ey6SUri7Ps4gEIg8DF6tjy23AYkTpEaZ4O6635P47B9KH2why_Wg5sJoc/s400/blogger-image--759195872.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chopped onions</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQLoj2onmwi8eGrRsXL226QgkSo6ExemRKqzo_CWBfBCWPl9hMmzrZt3xJ4yUIdEMRo6hvKFyb1CBFh2c696llH9sVhuhlagrJoVsbS7v4wCiTd5t-LI1HPt2AU8qFg5N2Vf8BjcHGZM/s640/blogger-image-1946134790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQLoj2onmwi8eGrRsXL226QgkSo6ExemRKqzo_CWBfBCWPl9hMmzrZt3xJ4yUIdEMRo6hvKFyb1CBFh2c696llH9sVhuhlagrJoVsbS7v4wCiTd5t-LI1HPt2AU8qFg5N2Vf8BjcHGZM/s400/blogger-image-1946134790.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">onions caramelizing in bacon fat</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjqoRJskAfOGE_lfrwo1Zsl3vGGjc0jpgWldGnRSeWK75zGu8m9XvZ9EkYZcseH-HIsxPLjI0c9ZZjP_zvClozqSAfHQC8Q3B28StLO-xcEnyDBa9gLifscYNj2vcKYOhOvmyFtZxki0/s640/blogger-image--789264230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjqoRJskAfOGE_lfrwo1Zsl3vGGjc0jpgWldGnRSeWK75zGu8m9XvZ9EkYZcseH-HIsxPLjI0c9ZZjP_zvClozqSAfHQC8Q3B28StLO-xcEnyDBa9gLifscYNj2vcKYOhOvmyFtZxki0/s400/blogger-image--789264230.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the dough should be a little bready</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgshujYp1vnfZn40trbdivV2gSl9XkPdTzuEoAwMnQkwLbxWeTEyuEHZeINd1Om6SRdloxJ3lI1NN0WEhB45SzLusYP2Q2UoruLUZRRQrCgs8psS5iRW8bz0V4c2G08WqK1A8rnVrV8wDM/s640/blogger-image-1729558812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgshujYp1vnfZn40trbdivV2gSl9XkPdTzuEoAwMnQkwLbxWeTEyuEHZeINd1Om6SRdloxJ3lI1NN0WEhB45SzLusYP2Q2UoruLUZRRQrCgs8psS5iRW8bz0V4c2G08WqK1A8rnVrV8wDM/s400/blogger-image-1729558812.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finished muffins</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-19413489005689788022012-04-09T11:36:00.000-04:002012-04-09T11:36:05.676-04:00Menu Plan: Week Forty-Seven<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gentle readers, pardon the delay in this menu plan. The weekend was chock-full and the planning of our upcoming menu could not be done till this morning.<br />
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Last week, we stayed fairly well on track, and Sunday we hosted brunch for a handful of friends and ate and drank all afternoon, first in our cozy living room and later sitting on our stoop, enjoying the warm weather and watching the world walk by.<br />
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This week is extra special amazing, as Boyfriend and your MatchGirl have tickets to see <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTo7wKumolU" target="_blank">Pulp</a> on both Tuesday and Wednesday night. On Tuesday, I'll be heading into the office of my new freelance gig for the day as well. I'm not sure how much office time I will put in, versus working from home time, but I'll make the menu plan simple, just so we can really try and stay on track.<br />
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Monday: Homemade pizza, red sauce, basil, mozzarella.<br />
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Tuesday: Eat out.<br />
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Wednesday: Eat out.<br />
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Thursday: Some big, healthy Spinach salad.<br />
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Friday: As always, by Friday we're beat. I think I will make this <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/nigella-lawson/pasta-with-walnut-sauce-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">pasta with walnut sauce</a> from Nigella Lawson. I used to make it all the time, but it's been a while.<br />
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Saturday: I have a bachelorette party and Boyfriend has a bachelor party.<br />
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Sunday: Roast chicken with potatoes and veggies.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-9514459198100167332012-04-06T09:19:00.000-04:002012-04-06T09:19:00.480-04:00Date Night!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last night, Boyfriend and your MatchGirl had a long-awaited and much needed date night. He made mussels (one of my favorites!). We drank wine. We talked about our days and all the crazy that is happening in our lives. We went offline, at least for a few hours.<br />
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It was good.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4031296276359093541.post-24527460120537488662012-04-05T09:00:00.000-04:002012-04-05T09:00:17.477-04:00Raising The Bar: Bloody Mary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Super special guest post from SF's best bloody maryest Mr Andrew Marks:</div>
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A few key things I have dear to my heart when it comes to Bloody Marys are:</blockquote>
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Vodka is not the only way to go, tequila, and gin are of course also other popular options. I use Absolut Peppar, I think its the best. St. Georges (makers of Hangar 1) also make a habanero vodka that is good. Anything that is going to compliment and not take away is a good way to look at it. I wouldn't go lower then Smirnoff. Its a decent neutral for the price. Belve, Gray Goose are a waste. However, Belvedere makes a bloody mary flavored vodka and its shit on its own but decent mixed up with all the accoutrements. A London dry gin I like the best like Tanqueray.</blockquote>
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Hot sauce, by far the most important choice you'll make. Cholula is the best. Hands down. I've used em all in a bloody, its the best. A close second is the Chipotle Tabasco. Tabasco on its own its shit. Too vinegary. Crystal, Siracha, wasabi, havent gotten a good one with them yet and I barfed fucking around with wasabi.</blockquote>
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Creamy Horsradish, not fresh or the chunky. Use it sparingly, I use like half a quarter teaspoon, otherwise you'll be drinking a root.</blockquote>
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Very little Celery salt, large pinch of salt, pinch of cayenne, ground pepper (small pinch).<br />1-2 oz of olive juice, 1 oz of worcestershire, half oz lime, 1/4 oz lemon. I do 2-3 oz vodka (or spirit) per.</blockquote>
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THEN add ice. whats left over use a decent tomato only juice. I usually use about half of the mini cans of Sacramento Tomato Juice. Give it a few shakes. I usually leave the lime from the press in there.</blockquote>
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Garnish is up to your hearts content. I use a pickled slaw of jalapeno, fennel, garlic, asparagus, red bell pepper, cabbage, and shallot, and english cucumber. Its in pretty much every vinegar they make, with ground coriander, cumin, salt, sugar, cayenne, pepper, and olive oil. Julianne everything and mix in the spices and vinegar and you can let it set in your fridge fm 3 days to 5 months. The cabbage and bell peppers might break down before anything.</blockquote>
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I add that on top then another dash of salt, pepper, and cayenne on top of that.</blockquote>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: Bloody Mary at Manhattan Inn in Greenpoint </span></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06513315033644639705noreply@blogger.com0