over cocktails

Walnut Pomegranate Dip w/ Pita Bread

2012-03-05T14:47:00.002-08:00

.
I took a cooking class from Maria Hines and learned a recipe for one of her delicious dips served at Golden Beetle. I've made it several times as an appetizer or snack. It's easy and delicious.

Muhummara
Walnut Pomegranate Dip with Pita Bread

1/4 cup water
whole wheat pita
3 T walnuts, toasted
1 T tomato paste
1 T pomegranate molasses (available at Whole Foods)
1 t harissa
1/2 t ground cumin
1 t red pepper flakes
1 t sugar
1 T olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

Cut a pita in half and pour water on one half. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften. Place water and bread in a food processor with walnuts, tomato paste, pomegranate molasses, harissa, cumin red pepper flakes and sugar. Puree until smooth. Add water if needed to achieve a good consistency. While the machine is running, drizzle in olive oil to emulsify and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Cut pita into triangles and brush with olive oil. Season with a sprinkle of sea salt and broil until warmed and very slightly toasted (a minute or two). Serve pita triangles with dip.
/

Weekend Reading

2012-03-03T14:20:00.000-08:00

.
Here's a mix of interesting articles I've enjoyed or been inspired by this week...

Dr. Tina Strobos, Who Harbored Jews From the Nazis, Dies at 91
As a young medical student in Amsterdam, Dr. Strobos protected more than 100 Jews from capture during the German occupation of the Netherlands.

Safe at Home
Having survived a brutal sexual attack, Lara Logan remains a tenacious journalist, albeit one steeped in risk assessment.

All the Rage
Diagnosed as bipolar, Ayelet Waldman suffered the torrents of hell. Or was it just PMS?

Born to Not Get Bullied
Lady Gaga wants to put an end to bullying, which is both a human rights abuse and a hindrance to education.

What Drives Stella McCartney
Critics used to chalk up her success to her famous name. Then she outworked them all.

60 Lives, 30 Kidneys, All Linked
A record chain of kidney transplants resulted from a mix of medical need, pay-it-forward selflessness and lock-step coordination among 17 hospitals over four months.

Dealing with a Discerning Diner
Do you have a picky eater? Here's how to take the food fights out of mealtime.

A Child of Two Worlds

/

Guy's Chipotle Sausage Hero Sandwich

2012-03-02T08:47:00.017-08:00

Our friend Guy used to do a food truck in New York City called "Happy Food Factory" selling vegan Hero Sandwiches as a launching point for opening up some vegan restaurants. He's been raving about these sandwiches since I met him and Thursday night he offered to come over and make them for us. These bad boys were deeeeeeeeeeelicious. I made them again Friday night because of course I had to have one again immediately.

He served a cold corn salad on the side. It was a great complement to the hot and spicy sandwich. If you make these, make the corn salad first and refrigerate so it gets cold.

I'm not highlighting the fact that these sandwiches are vegan because I think it will deter some people from making them (Jen Norris). Don't be turned off by the Vegan Field Roast Mexican Chipotle Sausage. These sandwiches are delicious, flavorful and filling. I will put these on the menu at my healthy cafe if I ever open it. My husband and I gobbled up every last bite. Well, maybe not every last. I had to leave something on the plate so I wouldn't feel like a hog.

Guy's NYC Vegan Hero Sandwich
Serves 4

1 package Field Roast Mexican Chipotle Sausage
2 yellow onions
1 jar of sliced pepperoncinis
1 small bottle of sun dried tomato spread (I couldn't find spread so I bought sun dried tomato hummus which worked fine)
1 head of radicchio, sliced thin
2 loaves of Italian or French Bread (preferably not too narrow, wide enough to make a decent sandwich)

Cut the onion in half and then into slices. Saute in olive oil until soft, being careful not to burn. Set aside. Cut the sausage lengthwise and cook in a bit of olive oil until there are browned on the top and bottom and there is a nice crisp to it. When done, add onions to pan to re-heat. Cut the bread almost all the way through. Open and cover with sun dried tomato spread (not too much or it will get soggy). Add a layer of shredded radicchio and top with pepperoncini rings. Add two sausage halves to each sandwich along with some onions. Close the sandwich and serve warm with corn salad.

Corn Salad

2 cans of corn (organic!)

1T minced yellow onion

1T of sesame oil

1 1/2 T white vinegar (rice vinegar if you don't have plain white vinegar

Combined ingredients and put in the fridge.

Ricotta Binge

2012-02-27T12:49:00.001-08:00

I've been kind of freaking out over ricotta lately. Not the regular pre-packaged ricotta that you find near the sour cream and cottage cheese at the grocery store to use in lasagne, but the real deal ricotta. I have been buying a container of it every time I'm within a few miles of Pike Place. I feel like if I'm close enough, I will make the effort to park and run in to DeLaurenti to get some fresh ricotta (and my favorite salami Fra' Mani's Salame Nostrano). The only thing better than buying fresh ricotta from a great deli would be to make it yourself. That intimidates me, but if you're up for the challenge I'm sure that would be even more delicious.

While on my weekend ricotta binge I made Pasta with Tomato Sauce & Ricotta for dinner, my revised Orange Ricotta Pancakes both Saturday and Sunday morning (to which my husband said, "I'm really not a pancake guy but these are the best pancakes I've ever had!") and a new ricotta gem of a recipe... Smitten Kitchen's Ricotta Crostinis.

All of the crostinis were good but the toasted bread with ricotta, honey and sea salt was amazing. I think the key is using both a good quality ricotta and honey.

A note on honey: I buy Fireweed Honey from Golden Harvest Bee Ranch, sold at the farmers market in Ballard every Sunday. It's delicious.

Have you made ricotta before? It's easy, right? I should not be intimidated?
.
/

Look of the Day: Emma Stone

2012-02-27T09:26:00.000-08:00

Shoe of the Day

2012-02-27T09:13:00.001-08:00

Bottega Veneta Espresso Canvas Cuir Wedge

How fun would these bad boys be for summer?
/

Look of the Day

2012-02-26T15:02:00.000-08:00

Photo found on Sacramento Street

Secrets of Their Success

2012-02-26T14:30:00.002-08:00

If you don't get Bon Appetite, check out the spread "Kitchen Confident" where chef's share their tips for kitchen organization, prep, and efficiency.
/

Pan-Fried Pork Chops

2012-02-26T14:28:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago I bought pork chops at the farmers market from Skagit River Ranch and was looking for a new recipe to prepare them. I settled on the Pioneer Woman's Pan-Fried Pork Chops. They were delicious and everyone gobbled them up. The ones I bought were bone-in and a bit thick so I pounded them thinner avoiding the bone. As usual I bought more than we needed knowing that I could use leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. I had the perfect amount of leftover meat to stretch into a delicious pork fried rice dinner. Two recipes worth making.

The Coast with the Most

2012-02-26T14:22:00.001-08:00

;

/
From Sunset's Best in the West to Bon Appetite's The Coast with the Most.

Check out Bon Appetits's three-day travel itinerary from Seattle to Vancouver.

/

Attention Marni Lovers

2012-02-26T14:16:00.001-08:00

I love the colorful and abstract patterns and the unique and boxy cuts that we see season after season from Marni. I couldn't be more excited about the Marni for H&M line launching March 8th. Here are a few looks. See the rest via the slide show on Huffington Post.
/

Best New Word Ever

2012-02-25T21:59:00.000-08:00

Bro-tox

Because vanity knows no gender

Best in the West

2012-02-24T21:15:00.002-08:00

/

This is a great list from Sunset magazine to file away in your travel folder:

"25 Best Hotels in the West"

/

Perfect Meatless Dinner

2012-02-24T19:22:00.001-08:00

/
Tonight I made the following for a healthy, flavorful and filling meatless dinner:

Chickpea & Roasted Tomato Soup with Fried Rosemary
Chickpeas and Kale
Steamed broccoli with butter and chicken bouillon
Broiled asparagus

We had a bottle of Chateau d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rose 2010 at Vij's in Vancouver and loved it so we bought some online. We had it tonight with this meal and it was great.

A good reminder that meatless night can be just as delicious and satisfying as your meat heavy meals.
.

Your Weekend Fashion Inspiration

2012-02-24T14:11:00.003-08:00

/
Mix and matched bracelets is a fashion trend I can't get enough of. I love all the different looks you can create. All photos courtesy of Fashion Me Now.

Happy Friday!
/

Weekend Reading Material

2012-02-24T14:00:00.003-08:00

/
Here's some reading homework for the weekend. Can you tell how behind I am on reading? Lots of these articles are from January 8th!

The Gifts of Motherhood and the Ordinary Places I Found Them
Great article that makes you appreciate those moments where you feel like you hit the pause button on life and you couldn't be happier.

'Am I Ugly?' Videos: Young Teens Ask YouTube Users Whether They're Pretty Or Not
This is so disturbing. It breaks my heart for these young girls.

Why French Parents Are Superior
"While Americans fret over modern parenthood, the French are raising happy, well-behaved children without all the anxiety. Pamela Druckerman on the Gallic secrets for avoiding tantrums, teaching patience and saying 'non' with authority."

The Lives They Lived: Vann Nath, b. 1946
"The terms were clear you would be painting for your life."

How Yoga Can Wreck Your Body
"Popped ribs, brain injuries, blinding pain. Are the healing rewards worth the risks?"

Where an Internet Joke Is Not Just a Joke
"In China, it’s a form of defiance – and the government is not amused."

The End of Girl Land
"A pair of bracelets passed from mother to daughter tells of a deeper link — and loss."

And a great granola recipe to whip up this weekend. My friend Dana said to watch it though because the cook time seemed too long. You don't want it to burn.

Eleven Madison Park Granola
"The rolled oats are golden with brown sugar and a hint of maple, with salt and a wisp of olive oil for depth. Coconut chips and shelled pistachios provide a hint of whimsy, pumpkin seeds a leathery crunch. Dried sour cherries peek out from here and there, bits of softness to complete the whole."

Finally, here is an audio link to an interesting story about The Man Behind 5-Hour Energy. I don't drink them but I know people who love them.

.

One of a Kind Bar

2012-02-24T13:55:00.000-08:00

.
I am officially obsessed with KIND bars. They are the best bars ever. I have been having one every morning with my coffee and couldn't be happier, especially when it's the dark chocolate version. They are also great for when you need a snack between meals and crave something both healthy and sweet.

Read an interview with creator here.

So far I've tried these three flavors and love them all...

Dark Chocolate Cherry Cashew + Antioxidants
Pomegranate Blueberry Pistachio + Antioxidants
Cranberry Almond + Antioxidants

Top 5 Regrets in Life

2012-02-24T13:16:00.002-08:00

/
My friend Chris told me about this list and I thought it was interesting and worth sharing...

Nurse reveals the top 5 regrets people make on their deathbed.

For many years I worked in palliative care. My patients were those who had gone home to die. Some incredibly special times were shared. I was with them for the last three to twelve weeks of their lives. People grow a lot when they are faced with their own mortality.

I learnt never to underestimate someone’s capacity for growth. Some changes were phenomenal. Each experienced a variety of emotions, as expected, denial, fear, anger, remorse, more denial and eventually acceptance. Every single patient found their peace before they departed though, every one of them.

When questioned about any regrets they had or anything they would do differently, common themes surfaced again and again. Here are the most common five:

1. I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.

This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled. Most people had not honoured even a half of their dreams and had to die knowing that it was due to choices they had made, or not made.

It is very important to try and honour at least some of your dreams along the way. From the moment that you lose your health, it is too late. Health brings a freedom very few realise, until they no longer have it.

2. I wish I didn’t work so hard.

This came from every male patient that I nursed. They missed their children’s youth and their partner’s companionship. Women also spoke of this regret. But as most were from an older generation, many of the female patients had not been breadwinners. All of the men I nursed deeply regretted spending so much of their lives on the treadmill of a work existence.

By simplifying your lifestyle and making conscious choices along the way, it is possible to not need the income that you think you do. And by creating more space in your life, you become happier and more open to new opportunities, ones more suited to your new lifestyle.

3. I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings.

Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace with others. As a result, they settled for a mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming. Many developed illnesses relating to the bitterness and resentment they carried as a result.

We cannot control the reactions of others. However, although people may initially react when you change the way you are by speaking honestly, in the end it raises the relationship to a whole new and healthier level. Either that or it releases the unhealthy relationship from your life. Either way, you win.

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.

Often they would not truly realise the full benefits of old friends until their dying weeks and it was not always possible to track them down. Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip by over the years. There were many deep regrets about not giving friendships the time and effort that they deserved. Everyone misses their friends when they are dying.

It is common for anyone in a busy lifestyle to let friendships slip. But when you are faced with your approaching death, the physical details of life fall away. People do want to get their financial affairs in order if possible. But it is not money or status that holds the true importance for them. They want to get things in order more for the benefit of those they love. Usually though, they are too ill and weary to ever manage this task. It is all comes down to love and relationships in the end. That is all that remains in the final weeks, love and relationships.

5. I wish that I had let myself be happier.

This is a surprisingly common one. Many did not realise until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits. The so-called ‘comfort’ of familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives. Fear of change had them pretending to others, and to their selves, that they were content. When deep within, they longed to laugh properly and have silliness in their life again. When you are on your deathbed, what others think of you is a long way from your mind. How wonderful to be able to let go and smile again, long before you are dying.

Life is a choice. It is YOUR life. Choose consciously, choose wisely, choose honestly. Choose happiness.

Quote of the Day

2012-02-23T07:53:00.001-08:00

.
A man goes out on the beach and sees that it is covered with starfish that have washed up in the tide. A little boy is walking along, picking them up and throwing them back into the water.

"What are you doing, son?" the man asks. "You see how many starfish there are? You'll never make a difference."

The boy paused thoughtfully, and picked up another starfish and threw it into the ocean. "It sure made a difference to that one," he said.

Half the Sky

2012-02-23T06:01:00.000-08:00

/
I just finished reading Half the Sky and the easiest way to sum it up is that it is a life-changing experience. My friend Jen wrote about the book so eloquently in this post she did about "International Woman's Day"...

"I strongly believe every adult living in a developed country should read this book and, as a woman, it is imperative. It is a heart wrenching but clear, incredibly informative, and worthy account of the major issue of our time: women’s rights and gender equality. It is well documented by the UN and other global organizations that empowering and educating women is the best way to fight poverty and extremism (even global warming) in developing countries. Half the Sky clearly articulates why this is true and frankly, why you should care. What I love most here is that the authors are not asking for your sympathy, they are asking you to join a movement, to give. They believe the worst thing you can do after reading this book is feel like the cause is too big and overwhelming and that you as an individual can’t make a difference, because you can. It’s not about giving a large sum of money – it’s about giving something of yourself, getting involved. It may be a bit of your time, your connections, or your skills. Sometimes it’s easier to give money, and I can speak to the need for more money for organizations like One by One to do what they do; absolutely we need money. But if you don’t have the money, are you powerless to give? Absolutely not. Half the Sky offers a few ways to get involved – check out their website and here is another resource."

I couldn't have said it better myself. Buy the book here now. .

Salmon & the Side, by Kennifer

2012-02-22T14:30:00.035-08:00

My dear friend Jen and her new hubby Ken are chefs making their debut in Portland, Oregon with their new restaurant Riffle NW opening soon. Read about the restaurant here and here, then start planning a Seattle-to-Portland road trip for the spring to taste their delicious fresh catch creations.

This dashing duo was just featured in Food & Wine magazine (how cool is that?!) with their recipe for Roast Salmon with Whole Grain Mustard Crust.

So here is a special treat for Over Cocktails fans that Food & Wine readers did not get... the recipe for Crispy Sprout Leaves and Chorizo which Jen says is her favorite part of the recipe. I can't wait to try it all, or better yet, convince her to make it for me.

Crispy Sprout Leaves and Chorizo

1 lb Brussels sprouts
3 Spanish chorizo links, about 12-16 oz. total
2 T olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
1 T unsalted butter
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Trim the stem ends of the sprouts (discard them) and then pull off the leaves (she loves me, she loves me not) and set aside in a bowl.

Cut the chorizo into small dice.

Heat a large skillet until it’s smoking hot, add the oil and chorizo and sauté until it begins to color. Add the Brussels sprout leaves and continue to sauté until the leaves become slightly charred, about 3-5 minutes.

Fold in the lemon zest and butter, and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Spoon warm sprout salad to the side of salmon and serve.

Quote of the Day

2012-02-21T10:11:00.001-08:00

.
"One study after another has shown that educating girls is one of the most effective ways to fight poverty."

- Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, from the book Half the Sky
.

This Ought to Keep You Busy

2012-02-01T12:35:00.000-08:00

.
I'll be away on vacation for a few weeks and may not post much so I thought I would load you up with some articles to read while I'm away. A few good ones...

Miscellaneous Topics

Charles Murray’s “Coming Apart” describes the most important cultural trends today and offers a better understanding of America’s increasingly two-caste society.
The Great Divorce

Millions of children take drugs to help them pay attention — but do they really help?
Ritalin Gone Wrong

While Cynthia Nixon’s critics have good reason to worry about how her words will be construed, they have no right to demand silence and conformity from her.
Genetic or Not, Gay Won’t Go Away

A staggering manufacturing system in China has made it possible for Apple and other companies to make devices almost as quickly as they can be dreamed up, but for workers, it can be dangerous.
In China, Human Costs Are Built Into an iPad

For one father, routine biological events should not be rewarded with money. So how about a book?
Curtain Up on Act II for the Tooth Fairy

Food Related

No Meat, No Dairy, No Problem

We’re Eating Less Meat. Why?

Finally, Good News About School Lunches

Modern Love Articles

“You never know how quickly life can change,” the young mother told me.
The Magi at 40,000 Feet

The 1,200 miles dividing two people takes its toll.
Navigating in a Long-Distance Affair

Giving up dress shoes, bookstores and a steady paycheck for unexpected connections to unexpected people.
A Side Order of Romance, Please

.

What Our Heart Desires

2012-02-01T12:09:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: The Soho

The pizza at Delancey rocks my world visit after visit. My husband and I love it so much that we battle traffic to make the 20-30 minute drive, wait in line in the cold until it opens, and panic the entire meal that our kids are going to melt and disrupt other customers. But, we do it again and again because the pizza is worth all that madness.
/
This last time we ordered the sausage pizza with the additional topping of spicy pickled peppers. It was AMAZING, with a capital A-M-A-Z-I-N and G! We also got the white pie adding sausage and preserved lemon which is a fave combo of mine. Starting with a Jersey salad is a must, as is ending with a salted chocolate chip cookie. Pizza and wine in the middle for the perfect meal.
.

Orange Ricotta Pancakes Updated

2012-01-30T08:02:00.001-08:00

/
I've made these orange ricotta pancakes several times in the last few weeks and found that I like the recipe better with less ricotta. It happened twice on accident because I didn't have enough ricotta so I used some milk and I felt they turned out more flavorful and not as dense and heavy. So here is my version. My whole family gobbles these up.

Orange Ricotta Pancakes
Inspired by Everybody Loves Sandwiches

1/2 cup ricotta (the best whole milk ricotta you can find)
4-5 T milk
2 eggs
1/4 cup sugar
zest of 1 large orange
1 t vanilla
2/3 cup flour
butter
syrup

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta, milk, eggs, sugar, zest and vanilla. Gently fold in the flour and stir to combine.

2. Melt better over medium-high heat in a cast iron frying pan or griddle. Add a large tablespoon of batter for each pancake, slightly smoothing over the tops. I like to make smaller pancakes because they cook beautifully and then everyone feels like they got to have several.

3. Cook until lightly browned on both sides. The edges start to curl up a bit. This is not a problem.

4. Serve hot with maple syrup.
.

Come One, Come All

2012-01-23T15:52:00.000-08:00

My friend Beth is the VP of Public Relations & Special Events for Barneys and is coming to Seattle for an event at the store. Barneys is celebrating Simon Doonan's latest book "Gay Men Don't Get Fat". Come down to the store Thursday night (5-7pm) to meet Simon and pick up a signed copy of his book. RSVP to the event at 206-622-6300 ext 221. Should be fun. Hope to see you there!
.

Look of the Day: Kate Bosworth

2012-01-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

Always a style icon in my book.

Just Lean a Little

2012-01-22T21:06:00.000-08:00

/
I came across this article on Facebook, thanks to my friend Jen Young. It's an interesting piece on the Vegan diet. Worth reading even if you have no interest in cutting meat. It might at least make you eat more fruits and veg.

"The Evidence for a Vegan Diet"

Sorry JQ - I know you hate the Vegan posts! ;-)
.

Golden Beetle

2012-01-22T15:35:00.000-08:00

My friend Marly and I took a cooking class from Maria Hines, owner of Golden Beetle. The food was great and the recipes approachable. Within days I tried all the recipes at home and loved them. To round out the week, of course I needed to revisit her restaurant and have the recipes as they are truly meant to be served (down to the homemade flatbread and every other perfected ingredient). Once again I had a great meal there. I really enjoy her menu and creations. It's also a good menu for those wanting to eat vegetarian or pescatarian. So many great options that it's hard to decide what to get. Here's what we settled on.

Vino
Vega Murillo Verdejo, Rueda, Spain ’09

Starters
Wood Fired Flat Bread
Muhammara Dip - walnut, pomegranate molasses, extra virgin olive oil

Salad
Baby Spinach Salad - apple, kasseri cheese, sumac vinaigrette

Small Plates
Toasted Couscous - preserved lemon, sultana, celery
Grilled Halloumi Cheese - roasted beet, arugula, herb vinaigrette
Spanakopita - baby spinach, feta, phyllo
Roasted Cauliflower - currants, caraway, turmeric
Lamb Kibbeh Meatballs - lamb, date sauce, grilled eggplant

Dessert
Turkish Baklava

I might not get the lamb meatballs again only because I'm eating less meat so I want things that really leave an impression (like her lamb tagine did on my last visit). Everything else was incredible.

.

Collaboration Nation

2012-01-22T15:15:00.000-08:00

.
Here's an interesting article my friend Marly told me about.

"The Rise of the New Groupthink"

.

Reinforce Your Willpower

2012-01-21T16:05:00.000-08:00

Interesting article about how to succeed with your New Year's resolutions.

"Be It Resolved"
.

Modern Love

2012-01-20T17:03:00.000-08:00

/
I love these "Modern Love" articles from the Sunday Styles section. Here is another good one....

"A Place to Lay My Heart"

.

I Heart You Exclamation Point!

2012-01-20T09:40:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when I proof an email I realize every single sentence ends with an exclamation point. I try to weed some out, but where? I love them. I'm a lover and a user of three in a row and the question mark/exclamation mark combo. I can't resist it sometimes. I've had to clean up my act writing the blog, but I'm still quite guilty of over-use in email. I guess I'll try harder.

On that note, your article for the day....
.
"Talking (Exclamation) Points"

.

Flu Prevention

2012-01-20T09:28:00.000-08:00

/
Whether or not you get a flu shot, there are things you can do to help with flu prevention. Here are some recommendations from my naturopath on how to get good immune support through flu season.

For general immune support:

- Take Vitamin D daily (5,000 IUs/day through the winter)
- Take a Pro-Flora Concentrate Probiotic (1 capsule/day)

At the first sign of feeling sick:

- Up your Vitamin D to 30,000 IUs (take 10k - 3 times/day)
- Take ViraClear (1.5ml 3 x day)
- Take ACES+Zinc

If symptoms include sore throat:

- Do salt water gargles
- Do black tea gargles

And as always, my favorite flu prevention or cold remedy is Get Well Tea or Chaco Canyon's Flu Buster.

/

Interactive Art

2012-01-19T15:20:00.000-08:00

/

I read about Ryan Molenkamp’s Portrait Challenge project awhile back and thought it was so creative. After people went nuts for the interactive art project at Bumpershoot, a new Portrait Challenge was presented at the Seattle Art Museum. (It's not currently showing. It took me a year to post this.)

You could use this idea as inspiration for a fun kids art project for school, a birthday or play date, or you could make it a funny game for your next adult cocktail party or big birthday bash (everyone could draw the guest of honor). Some good clean fun that could be made all the funnier after a few cocktails.

/

Shoe of the Day

2012-01-19T11:10:00.000-08:00

Lanvin Polka-Dot Snakeskin Ballerina Flat

Snowed In

2012-01-19T09:49:00.000-08:00

We're snowed in so I'm forced to be creative with meals. I found some ricotta in the fridge leftover from our Pasta with Tomato Sauce & Ricotta two nights ago. Ricotta and an orange and you have yourself some delicious Orange Ricotta Pancakes.

I didn't have enough ricotta so I threw in some milk. Turned out great. I make them on the small side. I think they cook better and are cute. Great served with sour cherry jam or good old fashioned butter and syrup. Delish!
/

Chickpeas and Kale

2012-01-18T12:33:00.001-08:00

/
I took a cooking class last week taught by Maria Hines, the owner of Golden Beetle and Tilth. I walked away with several great recipes. One recipe was for Poached Spot Prawns with Chickpeas and Lacinato Kale. It was great but my favorite part was the chickpea and kale mixture. I made it last night as a side, and ate it today as my lunch. I can't get enough kale so it's always fun to have a new way to prepare it.

I loved the flavor of the preserved lemon in this dish. There were no spices listed on the recipe but I followed Maria's lead and threw some in. I used cumin, harissa, sumac, salt and pepper. Maria used canned garbanzo beans in the cooking class but says she always uses dried beans in her restaurants. I used dried garbanzo beans from the farmers market, soaked overnight and cooked for about 30 minutes. They were delicious, creamy and smooth.

Chickpeas and Kale
Inspired by Maria Hines recipe

2 T olive oil
2 T shallot, finely chopped
1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2-1 preserved lemon peel, thinly sliced, then cut in half
1-2 cups chickpeas
1/4 t cumin
1/8 t harissa
1/4 t sumac
1 bunch (4-8 cups) lacinato kale, stems removed, leaves cut into thin strips
kosher salt
fresh ground pepper

In a large skillet head the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallot and saute for a few minutes until soft. Add garlic and preserved lemon and saute being careful not to burn garlic. Add chickpeas and spices. Saute and add more olive oil if needed. Add kale and saute for 5-15 minutes until kale leaves are cooked to desired texture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Serve as a salad, as a side to chicken or fish, or as a vegetarian main course.
.

The Love of My Life

2012-01-18T08:39:00.000-08:00

.
Tomatoes are the love of my life (after my hubby and kids I suppose). I am so obsessed with tomatoes that it dictates a few of my summer months - getting to the market, selecting the right combination from Billy's, preparing salads, caprese and pastas to eat, and cooking up soups and sauces to freeze. I am wild about good tomatoes. So, you can imagine my delight when I came across a new vendor at the Ballard farmers market two weeks ago. Tomato Goodness is selling jarred tomato sauces using all fresh, local, organic ingredients - including Billy's tomatoes. I was so excited. Last night I used my jar of Summer Sauce (tomato sauce with basil and roasted garlic) and it was delicious. It was good enough to just use as is, but I wanted to try a new recipe so I dolled it up a bit.

I used Rustichella d'Abruzzo Strozzapretti noodles that I bought at Delaurenti. I love that brand of noodles in any shape. I also bought really good ricotta at Delaurenti. It's nice to buy cheese there because it's not pre-packaged so you can buy smaller amounts of really great quality cheese for less.

My husband and I both loved this pasta. It was easy to make, simple flavors, but very fresh tasting. The ricotta was a fun new flavor to have in pasta too.

Pasta with Tomato Sauce & Ricotta
Inspired by Rachel Eats

1T olive oil (or more)
1/2 T butter
1/3 cup finely chopped yellow onion
1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1 t minced garlic
1 jar Tomato Goodness Summer Sauce
1 package noodles
1/2 cup good ricotta cheese

Fill a large pot with water and place over medium heat.

Heat olive oil in a sauce pan over medium heat. Add the onion and saute until soft. Then add carrots and saute for a few minutes, then celery, then garlic. Once everything is softened (careful not to burn), add the tomato sauce and a sprinkle of salt. Simmer for an hour.

Bring your pan with water to a boil. Season with salt (enough to taste like the sea), then cook noodles until al dente. Using a strainer or skimmer, remove pasta and transfer to the sauce pan, adding noodles one scoop at a time until it's the right balance. (I like my noodles saucy). Stir to coat.

Put noodles in bowls and top with a dollop of ricotta cheese.
.

Chocolate Banana Muffins: Breakfast or Dessert?

2012-01-17T08:22:00.000-08:00

I say both!

One of my very first blog posts, just a few weeks into starting Over Cocktails, was Going Bananas about making a few different recipes for banana muffins. Last night I got the itch for banana muffins and as usual, I couldn't make them just one way.

My friend Jennie said that she puts chocolate chips in her banana bread so I thought I'd try that with the muffins. I used the Epicurious recipe for Banana Macadamia Nut Muffins. I pulled some batter right before adding the nuts and used chocolate chips instead. When they came out of the oven and those chocolate chips were warm and oozing, they were deeeeeeeelicious. A perfect dessert. They were still delicious this morning served cold with coffee. A perfect breakfast. I did the rest with macadamia nuts like the recipe calls for and the kids gobbled those up for breakfast. Going forward I will always split the recipe. It's fun to have both nutty and sweet.
.

Dogsledding in Denmark

2012-01-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

.
I bought the latest issue of National Geographic because the cover photo and feature article on twins caught my eye. It was a very interesting article but I was especially captivated by the life of the brave souls on the world’s only military dogsled team. Read the article "The Cold Patrol", then check out the photo gallery. Amazing. I wouldn't last 10 minutes up there.
/

1 Down, 364 To Go

2012-01-13T11:16:00.000-08:00

I just got the new William Sonoma Soup of The Day cookbook with a gift card from Christmas and am off to an exciting start. I made the Chickpea & Roasted Tomato Soup with Fried Rosemary last night and loved it. It is the one pictured on the cover of the book. My husband thought it was ok but I thought it was deeeeeeeeeeeeeeelicious. I loved everything about it - the texture, the flavors, the hint of cinnamon, the fried rosemary. And, it was super easy to make.

Get the recipe here on page 9.

I used canned organic whole tomatoes since there's not a great tomato in town this time of year. They turned out great. I am going to roast canned tomatoes more often. I used homemade chicken stock because I think it makes soup taste better, but I don't think it's necessary for this recipe if you don't have any. I used dried garbanzo beans from the farmers market. I soaked them overnight, then cooked them shortly before adding to the soup. Turned out great.

A few tips on cooking with dried beans... according to the wise folks at Rancho Gordo (who sell great dried beans by the way!!!), the fresher the beans, the faster they cook. There is no regulation on dried beans so a lot of what is sold in grocery stores, whether packaged or in the bulk foods section, can be as many as 10 years old (even older they said). If you order beans from a good source, or buy dried beans at your local farmers market, they will be fresher and will cook much faster. Everything on the Internet said that dried, soaked beans would take 2-3 hours to cook but mine cooked up in 20-30 minutes. That makes a big difference when you're trying to cook a quick dinner and haven't done all the prep.

Rancho Gordo also advises that you not put any salt in the water when you cook dried beans. Have you ever had a bean that would not cook? They say that salt is often to blame. It causes the beans to close up so they won't cook. They become dry and grainy on the inside instead of creamy and smooth. (Keep this in mind when you make any of my soup recipes that say to salt the water when cooking the beans. Hold off until your beans are fully cooked. I'm too lazy to update all my recipes.)

I love it when the first recipe from a cookbook is great. It gives you motivation to keep working your way through the book. Stay tuned to hear about more soups as I try to work my way through the other 364 recipes. It could take years.....
.

Shit We Say

2012-01-12T16:38:00.000-08:00

These "Shit Girls Say" videos are hilarious. I can't stop laughing about a few lines.

Episode 1

Episode 2

Cocktail Anyone?

2012-01-11T16:50:00.000-08:00

Photo credit: Oh Joy!

My husband's aunt and uncle always give great Christmas gifts and this year they gave us a few specialty liquors and drinks. The first one we've tried is the Pok Pok Som Drinking Vinegar in pomegranate flavor. Serve it on the rocks with sparkling water or club soda for a delicious mocktail (that's what I had) or add a shot of vodka for a tasty cocktail (that's what hubby had). It tasted great both ways. Fun drink to have on hand for your next gathering with friends.

.

Rad Outfit

2012-01-11T16:26:00.000-08:00

How fun is this bright green number with the fur vest?! Love it.

Worn by Yasmin Le Bon at the Serpentine Gallery party.

.

Blood Orange Sighting

2012-01-10T07:57:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy of Food Blogga

I saw blood oranges at the grocery store yesterday and was reminded of a salad my friend Amy Tucker made oh so many years ago. It had butter lettuce, blood oranges, kalamata olives and red onion. Delicious. I made it last night and tonight with mixed greens instead of butter lettuce and some fennel. It's a great salad and something a little different than what I usually throw together. My husband really liked it too.

Salad with Blood Oranges & Kalamata Olives

Mixed greens
Blood oranges - peeled and separated, then cut in half
Kalamata olives, pitted ones, cut in half
Fennel, sliced thin
Red onion, sliced paper thin *

Basic Vinaigrette

Olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Fresh lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Salt
Pepper

* Not everyone likes raw red onion in salads. For me, it's all about how it's cut. I hate biting into a chunk of raw red onion so whenever I make a salad or sandwich with it, I slice it paper thin. You get a hint of the flavor instead of it overwhelming your mouth. I also toss it with a splash of the vinaigrette and let it sit while I finish preparing the rest of the salad. I find that it takes away some of the bite.
.

Bag of the Day: Prada Python Perfection

2012-01-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

Prada's Glossy Python Leather Tote

Fascinating Books

2012-01-09T07:20:00.000-08:00

.
This past fall I read both Jaycee Dugard's memoir "A Stolen Life" and Malika Oufkir's memoir "Stolen Lives". They were heartbreaking and disturbing stories about their countless years of imprisonment. I couldn't put them down because I was so eager to hear how these women and their families survived such horror. The stories are haunting but so fascinating that they are absolutely worth reading.
.

Golf Saved My Life

2012-01-08T19:50:00.000-08:00

//
Here are two short articles from the "Golf Saved My Life" section of Golf Digest that are worth reading (even if you're not interested in golf they are worth reading)...

A Golf Trip With My Dad I Won't Forget

Finding Peace on The Road

.

Merry Kissmas

2012-01-06T13:35:00.000-08:00

Hilarious, right?

This is my friend Beth's family. Beth (back middle with bangs) is truly one of the funniest people I have ever known so it is no surprise that her family is also hilarious. I wanted to use this idea for my Christmas cards next year but I can't resist sharing it. I love this photo. I love the twinkle in Beth's eye because I know she is dying of laughter inside.

Her family also has an ugly Christmas sweater contest (obviously) where you're not allowed to spend more than $20 on your sweater (shipping included). And as if they aren't fun enough already, they also have a "Hairy Christmas" facial hair/mustache contest with the following rules:

The judges will determine which contestant’s facial hair best enhances the contestant’s overall appearance, style and personality, taking into account:

· Overall condition and health of the facial hair

· Uniformity of color
· Thickness
· Symmetry
· Size including but not limited to length
· Presentation

May the best man win!

Is it wrong that I want to be part of her family at the holidays? I love my own, but come on, how fun and creative is her clan?!

Wishing you all a belated Hairy Kissmas!

The Nurtured Heart Approach

2012-01-05T15:49:00.000-08:00

My friend Jackie did the extensive training for The Nurtured Heart Approach and uses the approach for parenting her four children. It sounded like such an interesting approach that I asked to learn more. She recommended the book All Children Flourishing - Igniting the Greatness of Our Children because it's the easiest of the books to read and implement. I haven't finished the book but I was so excited about the strategy that I signed up for the one-day training when Howard, the founder of the Nurtured Heart Approach, was in Seattle awhile back. It was amazing, inspiring and eye-opening.

Side note: Most of the people at the training were counselors, teachers and principals. There are several local school districts that are adopting the approach because of it's effectiveness, especially with tough kids.

Since the training I have been trying to stay on course with the Nurtured Heart Approach because when I do, I can definitely see a difference in my daughter's behavior. The reason it's difficult to stay on course is because it requires more energy up front, but when you give a little extra up front, you get better behavior, less whining, fewer meltdowns and more. Sometimes I get off-track. I resort to yelling, bribes, time outs, taking away toys and privileges, and more... and not surprisingly, I get more and more of the bratty behavior.

It's a confusing approach to stomach at first, because it turns everything you've learned upside down. It asks you to put in all your energy in when your child is behaving good, rather than bad, which is so often when mommy wants to quietly slip into the other room for a breather rather than risk disrupting the calm moment by interacting. I know I've been there.

It's not about saying "good job" all the time. It's about labeling good behavior with indisputable facts and creating inner wealth, thus promoting and rewarding the behavior that you want, not the behavior you don't want. It's hard to sum up in a blog post, but if you're interested in learning more, I highly recommend the book and strategy.

I'mmmmmmmmmm Baaaaaaaaack!

2012-01-05T10:14:00.000-08:00

.
Happy Happy New Year!!!

I'm easing back into the blog world after a chaotic holiday season. I'll start slow and work my way back up to regular posts. I'll start with a few things today... a quote of the day, an interesting article, my new favorite dessert and a cooking tip.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

"Cheat the earth and the earth will cheat you."
- Chinese Proverb

ARTICLE OF THE DAY

There is a high price to cheap food and this article addresses one of the many issues... the poor working conditions for migrant workers. When I was in middle school my youth group babysat migrant workers' children in Lynden, Washington while the parents worked in the fields. When free childcare isn't available, many children (even school age children) spend their days out in the farms, playing or working with their parents. It was one of the most eye-opening experiences I had as a teenager. We met the families and saw their working conditions, their temporary housing (for some it's their cars), their extreme poverty and high work ethic, taking them from one state to the next as different crops are in season. This article was interesting to me because of that experience and because everyone deserves safe and fair working conditions. Help right this wrong by shopping at stores like PCC who support farmers doing the right thing.

Article: "Justice for Farmworkers"

RECIPE OF THE DAY

On a lighter note, for New Years Eve I made Chocolate Almond Butter Cups and served with a scoop of Bluebird's Caffé Vita Coffee. It is now my daily dessert addiction. It's just the right size, oh so rich and a great flavor combo.

TIP OF THE DAY

I took a cooking class awhile back and was told that when making soups, stews or sauces, don't add the pepper until closer to the end. "They say" if you add it too early and it simmers for many hours, the pepper can turn bitter. I've never noticed a difference but I pepper toward the end now anyway, just in case.

I'm not going to update all my recipes so if you see that a soup recipe that calls for pepper early on, just postpone.
.

Perfect Little Morsels of Chocolatey Goodness

2011-12-21T22:31:00.000-08:00

.
My friend Erika gave me a jar of JOLLY HOLIDAY SQUARES that rocked my world. These bad boys are so rich and delicious. I just polished off the last one and might have to make a batch tomorrow now that I know such a delicious little morsel exists.

Who knew the combination of chocolate, butterscotch, marshmallow and peanut butter would create such perfection! And who knew you could create such a great holiday treat without even turning on your oven?! For the record, she's given out the recipe so many times she has it memorized!!!!

Erika packaged them in cute glass jars with holiday ribbon and a tag. I think I know what I'm giving out next year. (If you don't mind a copy cat Erika????)

Jolly Holiday Squares

1 bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 bag butterscotch chips
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
3 t canola oil
1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

Melt everything but the marshmallows over low heat. Use a cast iron pan if you have one. Line a 9x13 pan with parchment paper. Pour half the mixture into the pan. Sprinkle with marshmallows. Pour other half over and smooth the top surface to make even and smooth. Refrigerate overnight. Cut into squares and deliver these delicious little morsels to your favorite friends and teachers.

* Don't double the recipe. If you want to do more than one batch, do them side-by-side.

.

Bag of the Day: Celine Clasp Bag

2011-12-21T09:04:00.000-08:00

Easy & Delicious Rotisserie-Style Roast Chicken

2011-12-20T18:19:00.000-08:00

Last night I made Gwyneth's Rotisserie-Style Roast Chicken and loved it. It was so easy to prep - make a little rub with some butter (not much at all) and spices. Rub all over the bird and throw it in the oven, rotate three times and you're done. I served it with caramelized brussel sprouts and parsnip puree. A perfect dinner for a cold winter night and another great recipe from Gwyneth's cookbook.
.

Quote of the Day

2011-12-19T14:44:00.001-08:00

/
"Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth."

- Muhammad Ali
.

Holiday Treats

2011-12-18T19:31:00.000-08:00

/
My friend Marly and I made holiday treats today to share with friends. It's not a holiday season without Chex Mix so that was a no-brainer.

We also made Sicilian White Cookies because they're my most favorite holiday cookie (thank you to my friend Erika for giving me the recipe). I love a few of these cookies with coffee for breakfast.

My friend Ali highly recommended these Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies so how could we not make those too, right? So glad we did. They're also delicious.

What are you making for holiday treats this year? Any great new cookie recipes?
/

Look of the Day

2011-12-16T08:01:00.000-08:00

The darling Jessica Hart

(photo from her own blog)

What to Wear, What to Wear???

2011-12-16T07:51:00.000-08:00

Interesting observations from Garance Doré:

"Party Dressing: New York vs Paris"
.

A Family Who Flies Together, Cries Together

2011-12-16T07:20:00.000-08:00

Interesting article on couples who dare travel with their children....

"It's Not the Carriers, It’s the Kids"

I wouldn't be surprised if the 200 people who "recommended Mr. Barr's comment" were the passengers on my Seattle-to-Honolulu flight last February. Every last one of them would have been justified in writing that children should not be allowed on planes after being trapped with George Terpening for 6 hours.

Here's an article explaining the good 'ol days of flying with kids, and tips for traveling with little ones now...

"Are We There Yet? When Families Fly"

Arm Candy of the Day

2011-12-14T22:34:00.000-08:00

Fendi's Chameleon Charm Bracelet

I'm So Over This Trend

2011-12-14T22:19:00.000-08:00

This is a hilarious mini-article about "Small Plates".

.

Shoe of the Day

2011-12-13T06:02:00.000-08:00

Jimmy Choo Whirl

My friend Jennie just bought these little beauties. Who doesn't love pink and gold together? It makes a dashing duo.

.

The Hostess with the Mostest

2011-12-12T21:03:00.000-08:00

Interesting article on hostess books...

"Sitting Pretty: The hostess who cares the mostest still goes by the book"
.
This whole idea of a "hostess book" is beyond my world of entertaining but I still love the idea. It would be nice to keep notes on things that were delicious, too salty, overcooked, or forgotten items. While I'm not so formal that I could include seating charts and invitations (does a text or evite count?), I'm still a sucker for planning a party. It's almost as fun as the party itself.

Get a great entertaining book, shown above in black and green, from Graphic Image.

.

Shoe of the Day

2011-12-12T14:56:00.000-08:00

Jimmy Choo Kilda

The Art (or Lost Art) of Listening

2011-12-12T14:25:00.000-08:00

.
. "....human beings have two ears but only one tongue. Why is this? Probably so that we have to listen twice as much as we speak."

- Henning Mankell

Quick read from the opinion pages:

"In Africa, the Art of Listening"

The Real Deal Sex Ed

2011-12-11T20:51:00.000-08:00

Great article about a high school sex ed class....

"Teaching Good Sex"

I think every high school in America should have a teacher and a class like this. Why not educate kids on a subject they're all curious about while they're trapped in a high school classroom. There's such an opportunity there to help them think and act differently - to be more mindful, mature, respectful, confident and safe.

/

Your Quick Read for the Day

2011-12-11T20:42:00.000-08:00

Interesting article about Chelsea Clinton...

"Chelsea Clinton: Living Up To The Family Name"

.

How Does She Do It All?

2011-12-10T11:44:00.000-08:00

.
Great article on the admirable and uber-perfect Tory Burch.

"Perfectly Perfect: Tory Burch"

.

Shoe of the Day: Balenciaga Booties

2011-12-10T08:56:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: Jak & Jil

For All You Bret McKenzie Fans

2011-12-09T18:34:00.000-08:00

'
A quick read from The New York Times Magazine...

"On Composing for Kermit the Frog"

Cool Casual

2011-12-09T09:18:00.000-08:00

My friend Jennie and I found these paper placemats and went nuts for them. They're genius, right?! I like to set a pretty table but I also love a casual vibe. What better way to accomplish both than setting the table with cute paper placemats?!

For Halloween I used a white tablecloth and some fun decorative pumpkins down the middle of the table. The pumpkins had little sparkly balls so they paired perfectly with the polka dot paper placemats. I had cute napkins from the same company (the ones with the fork, spoon, and knife) and that was it. No glassware - people always have a drink in hand anyway. No silverware - I put it by the plates for when people dished themselves up. No flowers. No frills. I thought the table looked really cute and it took me less than 5 minutes to throw together.

I love the different styles and can think of lots of ways to use them. Next time I'm going to use the last one and write in names so it's a placemat and a placecard. Super simple, super cute.

I think these make a fun and unique hostess gift as well so I grabbed a few extra sets. We'll see if I can part with them though.

You can find these at Stuhlbergs on Queen Anne (best gift store ever!) and The Paper Source in University Village.

.

A Wintry Vegetarian Dinner

2011-12-09T08:49:00.000-08:00

My friend Jen sent me this menu for a A Wintry Vegetarian Dinner from Saveur magazine. This is a great menu to serve when entertaining a vegetarian guest, or just steal a recipe or two for a casual night at home. I would love to sit down to this meal with several bottles of wine and a friend. I mean several friends and a bottle of wine. I mean, several friends and several bottles of wine. Yes, that's it.
.
.

Seattle Shout Out of the Day: Bar Method on the Westside!

2011-12-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

I'm late to the game posting that the Seattle Bar Method studio is open (and has been open for several months now) and is A.W.E.S.O.M.E! I'm loving the new studio for many reasons... pure convenience (a few blocks off the freeway), the teachers are amazing (tough and motivating at the same time), the studio is brand new, clean as a whistle and beautiful with a great locker room, showers and more. And lastly, I love how much daylight there is in the studio (I'm getting claustrophobic as I get older and dark makes me crazy). The classes are hard as sh-t but in good way. It never gets any easier but the more you go, the faster the time goes by. If you haven't tried a Bar class, I highly recommend it. You won't thank me later because you'll be too sore.

....up and inch and down an inch....up and inch and down an inch.....

.

Look of the Day

2011-12-08T05:34:00.000-08:00

Photo credit: The Sartorialist

How to Talk to Little Girls

2011-12-07T14:49:00.000-08:00

.
My friend Sarah sent me this article and it's a good one.

"How to Talk to Little Girls"

Worth reading if you have daughters, grand-daughters, nieces, little cousins, friends with girls, etc. (Basically, everyone should read this article.)
.

Look of the Day: Arm Candy

2011-12-07T07:02:00.000-08:00

Because I

the look!

Photo credit - most, if not all, courtesy of The Man Repeller

Impress Your Brunch Guests...

2011-12-06T20:21:00.001-08:00

My friends and I did a third cooking class with Dana and once again it was fun, filling, and full of great food, tips and recipes. This time around we did a "brunch" cooking class. Let me just say that there is no better way to start a Sunday morning than with Dana's homemade Classic Currant Scones with homemade honey butter. The scones were heavenly.

The next thing to come out of the oven, flaky and delicious, were Dana's Petits Pain au Chocolat. Who knew making homemade pain au chocolat could be so easy and what a fun thing to make for a snack with your kids or the next time you host a brunch. What guest wouldn't be impressed to be offered a homemade croissant fresh out of the oven upon arrival?!

Dana had a few recommendations for the pain au chocolat. For starters, use a good quality puff pastry (and avoid Pillsbury Puff Pastry if you can). She stocks up at Delaurenti in Pike Place and throws it in the freezer. The night before you need it throw it in the fridge to thaw. Dana used Semisweet Pain au Chocolat Sticks from the King Arthur Flour website (just ordered mine today for Christmas morning!). They are the perfect size and shape for petite pain au chocolate, or you can use two sticks for a larger version.

Give these recipes a try. You won't be sorry!

Start the Conversation

2011-12-06T20:07:00.000-08:00

I'm reading the book NurtureShock: New Thinking About Children and found the chapter "Why White Parents Don't Talk About Race" to be really interesting. We have the same conversations that most families are probably having with their young children about race, and communicate our values strongly. But the chapter really encouraged me to initiate more discussions on race and racial differences because the thought that kids learn by our example is not always the case.

I knew a great way to start the conversation with a 4 year old would be through children's books and a great resource for those is always the librarian at your local public library. We stopped in and got several great recommendations. The one we're enjoying most as a family is Unicef's book Children Just Like Me: A Unique Celebration of Children Around the World.

My daughter loves learning about the different children from all over the world - what they eat, where they live, what they like to do, etc. It creates a perfect opportunity to discuss differences in race, appearance, language, family units and more. It is also eye-opening for her to see how different people live and that not all families have water readily available or electricity in their home (which means no TV and no Caillou!).

I asked my daughter if she wanted to make a page for herself like the ones in the book, and she couldn't have been more excited. I'll be ordering her a copy of the book for Christmas since she can hardly put it down and the library won't let us keep it forever. A fun book to check out from the library or buy and a great way to start some conversations.

About the book:

A delightful, attractive look at children from around the world. The authors spent two years meeting and photographing youngsters from every continent and more than 140 countries. The volume is divided by continent, which is introduced with photos of children, their names, and nationalities. Then a double-page spread features pictures of each child's food, eating utensils, housing, school, friends, and family. The text gives the young people a chance to comment on their favorite games, friends, and hopes for the future. The final section includes excerpts from the Kindersleys' travel diary. This book is factual, respectful, and insightful. It provides just the right balance of information and visual interest for the intended audience.
.

The Way to a Man's Heart...

2011-12-06T12:26:00.000-08:00

.
I needed to bring an appetizer for a cocktail party this past weekend and couldn't settle on what to make. The host mentioned that her husband always wished there was more guy food for the men at the party. Mission accepted. A man appetizer it is.

I couldn't settle on what to make so I asked around for some ideas. My friend Ali suggested little sandwiches like mini BLTs or roast beef with horseradish and arugula. Genius. I also thought little pork tenderloin sandwiches would be good, and since I'm crazy(!) I made all three versions (plus a brie appetizer because I was craving it). The sandwiches were a hit. I had two huge platters of mini sandwiches and every last one was gone by the end of the night.

I bought Marination's Nunya Sauce at Delaurenti in Pike Place for the BLTs. It was a great twist on a classic BLT. I also did some BLTs with homemade garlic aioli sauce. Those were good too but the Nunya Sauce was the best.

These recipes would be good for dinner, Superbowl parties, tailgates, cocktail parties or any other type of entertaining, especially where men will be circling an appetizer table looking for something more than cheese and crackers.

Party BLTs

Good bacon
Tomatoes, as good as you can find this time of year
Butter lettuce
Good bread (I bought Grand Central sliced Como bread)
Nunya sauce or garlic aioli

I like to cook bacon in the oven on a wire rack atop a cookie sheet (thanks to Ina). I cook it at 425 for 15-25 minutes depending on the size and thickness of the slices.

I slice my tomatoes, then lay them out and sprinkle with salt and pepper. I think it adds a little to the flavor of the sandwich.

Toast the bread slightly and cut off the crusts. Slather with Nunya sauce or garlic aioli. Then top with bacon, tomatoes, and butter lettuce. Cut sandwiches in thirds and stick with a toothpick.

Ali's Roast Beef Sannies

Baguette
Roast beef
Horseradish mayo *
Arugula

Slice the baguette in half. Slather with the horseradish mayo. Top with roast beef and arugula. Put the top piece of bread back on and cut into 1.5-2" slices. Stick with a toothpick to keep them together.

* I bought a horseradish sauce and mixed it with mayo, salt and pepper.
.
.
Mini Grilled Pork Sliders

Follow this recipe for Pork Sandwiches. You can use pesto or the Nunya sauce. Of course I tried both and both were great. I skipped the tomato. Assemble the sandwiches and cut in half. Stick with a toothpick and serve.
.

Christmas Gift Idea: Help the One You Love Travel in Style

2011-12-05T17:01:00.000-08:00

For that very special someone in your life who is impossible to buy for, consider a a piece of Rimowa luggage. They offer several different collections, colors and price ranges. I love these.

Best BLT in the City

2011-12-05T16:02:00.000-08:00

photo credit: Eater

.
I went back and it's official... I'm giving Dot's the rating of "Best BLT in Seattle". Their fries (with some aioli for dipping) are pretty fantastic too and my husband loved his pork sandwich. But boy oh boy, that BLT was good!
.

Look of the Day: Poppy Delevigne

2011-12-03T07:54:00.000-08:00

The Top Dog

2011-12-02T13:49:00.000-08:00

photo credit: The Cookbook Chronicles

What Kobe-style Wagyu beef is to steaks, Matsutake is to mushrooms. These beauties are amazing and priced to match, ranging from $20-30 per pound. They can be prepared many different ways, but you don't need much because of their great flavor. Just saute with a little butter and a sprinkle of garlic salt. Divine!

They have a short season and are hard to find locally. Check your local farmers market, Uwajimaya, and Pike Place Market.
,

For All You Bracelet Stackers

2011-12-02T08:50:00.000-08:00

.
Here's some fun bracelets from Ben Amun. The collection of necklaces is also fantastic but I'm not one for big chunky necklaces (on me that is) so I focus on the arm candy.
/

Look of the Day: The French Woman

2011-12-02T08:43:00.000-08:00

Cute post sent to me by my friend Jennie:

What French Women Get Right
.

'Tis the Season

2011-12-01T09:44:00.000-08:00

.
This year my friends are gathering new toys for the gift room at St. Francis House in Seattle. Parents in need can select a new toy for each of their children. It's a really great program and we're excited to support it.

In addition to the toy room that they host once a year, St. Francis House also offers services and goods year-round for free. So unlike Goodwill, low-income and homeless people can go in and select some clothing items and get a few basic items (shampoo, a new toothbrush for each family member, diapers, warm coats, etc) for free.

Last year I helped in the kids room one day and watched as moms happily looked through clothes, bins of old socks (unmatched) and used kids underwear to find some items for their children. I would say a majority of the clothing available is quite worn, damaged or stained. And these women are so grateful to have the items they selected. (It makes you feel so lucky for all that you have!)

That said, I was thinking it's a good time of year to clear out your closets and cupboards to make room for all the new gifts you'll be receiving. I know I have my daughter go through her toys every so often to select some for the boys and girls who don't have many. She is more interested in the fact that we're making room for new toys, but eventually the right message will sink in, right?! Either way, she happily piles up toys, books, and stuffed animals to donate.

Maybe your kids want to help too????

If you have clothing (mens, womens, girls, boys, baby), kitchen items, toys or childrens books that you might normally give to Goodwill, consider giving it to St. Francis House. Now is a great time of year to do it. If you have a bunch of stuff (and live in Seattle), I will personally collect it and deliver it to St. Francis House for you! Just email me at cm{at}wci{dot}com and I'll come get it.

For anyone interested - they love it when you mark a bag as to it's contents (boys clothes 2T, women's clothing size 6, kitchen items, etc). It makes it so much easier to sort.

.

Spice It Up

2011-11-30T16:35:00.000-08:00

Every time I take a cooking class I'm reminded of how often you should change out your spices. It reminds me that I have a few Penzeys Spices in the cupboard that were a wedding gift..... 7+ years ago!

I usually get spices in bulk from PCC or Whole Foods but I've been dying to stock up at Market Spice in Pike Place Market. I know their quality is said to be unsurpassed. I made it down to the store this fall and loaded up on all my regular spices and got small bags of some of the more unique flavors that I use every so often. It is especially smart to buy in bulk for these rare spices that you barely ever cook with. Why spend $6 on a jar when you can spend 50 cents?! If you need 5 or 6 new spices for a recipe, that adds up. It's also nice to have smaller quantities because then you know your spices are fresh. What spice is going to pack the same punch after 7 years in a cupboard?!

I re-use my jars and just mark the date on the bottom so I know when I last replaced each spice.

Market Spice is also famous for their Cinnamon Orange Tea. There is nothing more cozy than a cup of this on a cold afternoon.

A gift card to Market Spice would be a great Christmas gift or stocking stuffer for someone who loves to cook.
.

New Recipe: Vij's Zucchini Soup

2011-11-29T08:54:00.000-08:00

This summer we took the family for a weekend getaway to Vancouver BC, in part because my husband and I were dying to get back to Vij's. After our meal, we buzzed next door to Vij's sister restaurant, Rangoli, to buy cookbooks and spices. I bought his latest cookbook Vij's at Home which I used for the first time last night. I made Vij's Kitchen Staff Zucchini Soup. It was flavorful and delicious. I will definitely make it again but next time I will serve with basmati rice and curried cauliflower or a chickpea dish from Madhur Jaffrey to really complement the flavors. The soup almost tasted like a green vegetable curry which is why I'd love to serve it over rice. Delicious!
.

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

2011-11-28T13:42:00.000-08:00

Every year I head to Kmart for Christmas tree balls and ornaments. The selection isn't as good as when Martha Stewart created a line for Kmart, but you can still find some cute things.

My sister-in-law did really cute trees for her kids rooms last year with trees and ornaments found at Kmart. I copied the theme of my niece's tree for my daughter's room. My daughter couldn't have been more excited about picking out ornaments and having her own tree to decorate and admire, endlessly. Kmart had such cute cupcake and candy ornaments with garland to match. It turned out so cute.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

2011-11-28T13:25:00.000-08:00

Possibly the most fun and coveted shoes of the season...

Miu Miu's glittery ankle booties and pumps in several fabulous styles and colors

How could you not have fun in these?!

Bag of the Day: Chloe

2011-11-25T15:37:00.000-08:00

Great color. Great shape.

Brie with Roasted Garlic and Honey

2011-11-25T15:16:00.000-08:00

/
My aunt Jadine makes this appetizer all the time and it's so good. I made it yesterday and was thrilled with how easy it was. I'll be making it a lot more often now that I know it's a cinch to make.

Brie with Roasted Garlic and Honey

Round of good brie cheese
3 heads of garlic
olive oil
brown sugar
1/2-1 cup honey
Plain water crackers

Roast the garlic (this can be done a day or two before)

Preheat oven to 250. Cut off the top of the head of garlic. Sprinkle with a touch of olive oil, then brown sugar. Place on a small pan or cookie sheet and roast for 2-3 hours. You want the cloves to be soft, but not too mushy. Remove and allow to cool. Squeeze out garlic cloves.

When ready to serve

Throw roasted garlic cloves in a small pan with honey. Warm over medium heat, then reduce to low until you're ready to serve. Cut off the rind on the side and top of the brie round (bottom too if you want). Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds. Pour the honey garlic mixture over the brie and serve with crackers.
/

Happy Thanksgiving Over Cocktails Readers!

2011-11-24T12:25:00.000-08:00

Last year I hosted my first ever Thanksgiving dinner. Of course I took photos so I could blog all about it, and then I put it off and put it off and put it off. A year later and I still don't have the recipes merged and ready to post, but I thought I'd share my photos.

The Table

The Kids Table

I drew circles for plates and put crayons out so they could draw pretend food before it was time to eat.

Thanksgiving morning

Everything is prepped and ready to go

Murphy Bird
.

(My uncle gave me the recipe along with lots of advice and guidance so I named the turkey "Murphy Bird" since that's his last name and my maiden name). This year we're eating Murphy Bird II.
/

Thanksgiving dinner is served!

(Buffet style, of course, since we're casual folks)

All the usual suspects plus a few Murphy additions

The Menu

Turkey with apple sausage stuffing
(might I add that I made my own sausage!)

Twice baked mashed potatoes

Grand Marnier yams

Lumpia (Filipino eggrolls)

Black bean spare ribs

White rice

Green salad

Corn & pea casserole

Rolls

Cranberry sauce

Dinner is ready, candles are lit. Time to grab a plate, serve up and enjoy!
/

/
Have a Happy Happy Thanksgiving! Be grateful for this day, good food, your health, family and friends!

Look of the Day

2011-11-23T13:57:00.000-08:00

.
I love this look...

A rad leather coat over a dress with a great pair of booties.

And a killer handbag to finish it off.

Perfection, right?!

Photo credit: Monica Rose

Great Dinner

2011-11-23T13:49:00.000-08:00

/
Last night I had my in-laws over for a casual dinner. I wanted something really flavorful, but pretty healthy. I settled on this meal and it was delicious and well-paired.

Best Stir-Fried Chicken, from Gwyneth's cookbook
Fried (brown) Rice w/ Kale & Scallions, also from Gwyneth's cookbook
Cabbage with Hot Sauce, from Orangette
Steamed broccoli, with butter and chicken bouillon

It takes a bit of prep work but then all the dishes cook really fast.
.

Run, Don't Walk

2011-11-23T07:37:00.000-08:00

Plum Danish on the bottom

Get your booty over to Cafe Besalu pronto for a Plum Danish with Frangipane. It is heaven on earth. They will be closed for part (or all) of the holiday weekend and they won't be making the plum danish for that much longer (they stop in early December) so the time to go is now. I'm leaving in 5 minutes and my mouth is already watering. You can even load up for tomorrow because they are delicious second day as well.

.

"Get through the season in style"

2011-11-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

I hit the farmers market every week, rain or shine, snow or hail. I have never not gone because of weather conditions. This means that several weeks or months of the year I am frozen to the bone by the end of my shopping excursion. Miserable! I decided recently that I needed some good winter boots. I wanted the warmth of an Ugg boot, but something to keep my feet dry, like a Hunter rain boot. What shoe can accomplish both warm and dry? Ah, yes, the beloved and timeless Sorel boot. I picked up a pair this weekend, just in time to see that Who What Wear claims "to get through the season in style, you need Sorel boots." Who knew your feet could be warm, dry and stylish all at the same time?!

Buy via the Sorel website, on Zappos, or in person at REI.
.

Look of the Day: Kate Moss

2011-11-22T11:21:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: The Vogue Diaries

over cocktails

Walnut Pomegranate Dip w/ Pita Bread

Weekend Reading

Guy's Chipotle Sausage Hero Sandwich

Ricotta Binge

Look of the Day: Emma Stone

Shoe of the Day

Look of the Day

Secrets of Their Success

Pan-Fried Pork Chops

The Coast with the Most

Attention Marni Lovers

More Weekend Reading Assignments

Best New Word Ever

Best in the West

Perfect Meatless Dinner

Your Weekend Fashion Inspiration

Weekend Reading Material

One of a Kind Bar

Top 5 Regrets in Life

Quote of the Day

Half the Sky

Salmon & the Side, by Kennifer

Quote of the Day

This Ought to Keep You Busy

What Our Heart Desires

Orange Ricotta Pancakes Updated

Come One, Come All

Look of the Day: Kate Bosworth

Just Lean a Little

Golden Beetle

Collaboration Nation

Reinforce Your Willpower

Modern Love

I Heart You Exclamation Point!

Flu Prevention

Interactive Art

Shoe of the Day

Snowed In

Chickpeas and Kale

The Love of My Life

Chocolate Banana Muffins: Breakfast or Dessert?

Dogsledding in Denmark

1 Down, 364 To Go

Shit We Say

Cocktail Anyone?

Rad Outfit

Blood Orange Sighting

Bag of the Day: Prada Python Perfection

Fascinating Books

Golf Saved My Life

Merry Kissmas

The Nurtured Heart Approach

I'mmmmmmmmmm Baaaaaaaaack!

Perfect Little Morsels of Chocolatey Goodness

Bag of the Day: Celine Clasp Bag

Easy & Delicious Rotisserie-Style Roast Chicken

Quote of the Day

Holiday Treats

Look of the Day

What to Wear, What to Wear???

A Family Who Flies Together, Cries Together

Arm Candy of the Day

I'm So Over This Trend

Shoe of the Day

The Hostess with the Mostest

Shoe of the Day

The Art (or Lost Art) of Listening

The Real Deal Sex Ed

Your Quick Read for the Day

How Does She Do It All?

Shoe of the Day: Balenciaga Booties

For All You Bret McKenzie Fans

Cool Casual

A Wintry Vegetarian Dinner

Seattle Shout Out of the Day: Bar Method on the Westside!

Look of the Day

How to Talk to Little Girls

Look of the Day: Arm Candy

Impress Your Brunch Guests...