Meandering Intrigue

A wedding reading

2011-04-11T08:26:00.000-04:00

I was honored to be able to participate in Erica and Martin's Wedding. I had the great pleasure of reading this:

A reading from The Awakened Heart by Gerald May

There is a desire within each of us,
in the deep center of ourselves that we call our heart.

We were born with it,
it is never completely satisfied,
and it never dies.

We are often unaware of it,
but it is always awake. It is the human desire for love.

Every person in this earth yearns to love,
to be loved,
to know love.

Our true identity,
our reason for being,
is to be found in this desire.

Love is the ‘why’ of life:
why we are functioning at all,
what we want to be efficient for.

I am convinced it is the fundamental energy of the human spirit,
the fuel on which we run,
the wellspring of our vitality.

And grace,
which is the flowing, creative activity of love itself,
is what makes all goodness possible.

Love should come first;
it should be the beginning of and the reason for everything.

Two Breakfasts

2011-01-24T09:07:00.000-05:00

The cold morning and extremely busy Whole Foods couldn't stop me from my breakfast needs. So I decided to make two. One for now, one for the rest of the week. The sandwich was great. Fulfilling, tasty and textured. The granola, still warm out of the oven (yes I had a few tastes) was great. I think a little too much liquid as it wasn't quite loose like granola should be, but it's damn tasty.

It's good to start the day off like that. I have my batch of granola and some rice milk at work for this week's breakfast pleasure.

The base for the "breakfast sandwich" includes smoked ham, swiss, avocado, tomato, carmelized onion on a whole wheat baguette with salt and pepper.

A perfectly fried egg to top it off

add said egg

And, it's a great sandwich. Some of the avocado slipped out when eating, but it was delicious.

Granola (Rolled Oates, Cranberries, Cashews, Maple Syrup, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon and Cardamom

Close up on the Granola

Panzanella, The Perfect Summer Salad

2010-08-12T09:15:00.002-04:00

Panzanella with Yellow Heirloom Tomatoes, Cucumber, Anaheim Pepper, Red Onion and Fresh Mozzarella (Ciliegine sized). I made a simple vinaigrette. I admit it might have been a bit over-dressed but it was good and pretty easy.

Yellow Heirloom Tomatoes

Tomatoes, Cucumber, Red Onion

In the bowl

The results

I accompanied it with seared London Broil and Basil Pearl Couscous. A good summer meal.

Fresh Pasta in the Summer

2010-07-26T08:25:00.001-04:00

Jenn and Martyn (Sister and Brother-in-law) had me over for dinner on Friday. Martyn made fresh pasta that was light, decadent, and filled with thyme (perhaps my favorite herb). I was prep monkey and diced up squash and cherry tomatoes for the sauce that included a great pesto, even though pesto isn't my favorite. I also prepared a simple salad of heirloom tomatoes and fennel over arugula. A great, simple, and perfect summer meal.

Enjoy the fresh pasta photos.

Linguine with thymes (freshly cut)

Close up on a small bundle of joy

All the Pasta (and my Gin and Tonic)

A better shot of the bounty

Pork and Greens

2010-06-15T10:43:00.005-04:00

Martyn (Bro-in-Law) and I cooked up a great grilled meal. Pork chops and grilled bok choy and garlic scapes. We had an additional salad of mixed greens, cucumbers and tomato. It was simple and delicious. I made a creamy salad dressing with a slew of leftover cheeses. The meal was great after a hard fought softball victory.

Pork Chops

Grilled Bok Choy

Garlic Scapes

Creamy Dressing with Assorted Cheese

The Final Plate

Morocco - Good Eats

2010-05-27T08:39:00.004-04:00

Breakfast at the Dar. Rolls, hard-boiled eggs, fresh OJ, goat cheese, and Jam

Cucumber slices, Lentils and Beans, spiced Cauliflower, spicy olives, and roasted eggplant. The Cauliflower was awesome and so was the eggplant. I wish I spoke Arabic so our house cook could have given me the recipe.

Fried anchovies at the outdoor Asilah restaurant. Fish french fries!

Lamb Tanjine with potatoes and parsnips

Pigeon Pastilla - sweet and savory

Celebrating with Dessert

2010-04-06T08:43:00.007-04:00

My sister is becoming quite the baker. I mean she is fearless to try a new recipe so for the Easter weekend (or Yeah, Jesus rose from the dead Day!) she set out to make two difficult, from scratch recipes. I was, of course, along for the ride and more than willing to help. The one recipe was the cold water biscuits, passed down from Martyn's grandmother. They are good folks. Not easy or quick, but delicious. It's a lot of proofing and the 2 extra hours in the car of final proofing really expanded they're sizes. The rolls were epic big, in a good way of course. We also set out to make a coconut cake. It was quite the process. Note to all readers, egg whites in the carton do NOT whip into meringue. Also, delicate cakes can sometimes spontaneously fissure over night. Also, an egg white icing does not like fluctuating temperatures. But this Cake was good, it was all from scratch and good looking.

The age old, tried and true, rice krispie treat also made an appearance with the addition of a popsicle stick and a little caramel. We also had a store bought, Key Lime Pie.

Jenn sent this picture along of her wonderful biscuits!

A walk on the mall

2010-04-02T09:34:00.003-04:00

It's Spring. The Cherry Blossoms are at peak. It was time for an evening walk.

Spring Training 2010

2010-03-24T10:24:00.003-04:00

Some highlights from Florida 2010 Spring Training. The first is that I got my first foul ball on the last day. The lowlight was the temperatures, they were low, too low for my liking.

The Phanatic

Jayson Werth Sporting the beard

Jimmy Rollins in St. Patty's Green

Ryan Howard up to bat.

Tailgating on St. Patrick's Day.

Breakfast at Lenny's. So I had the sampler with 2 eggs, homefries, one bacon, one sausage link, one sausage patty, and one Canadian bacon slice, all with Rye toast.

Yes he's admiring a good golf shot.

Freezing in the seats.

Slice, Hook, or straight? Your guess is as good as mine.

Capitals beat the Lightning at the St. Pete Times Forum. A little non-baseball fun.

Breckenridge Dog Sledding

2010-03-05T11:54:00.007-05:00

Coming out of the woods.

Mushing up the hills.

Some short dog-sledding video.

High Altitude 3-Bean Chili and Lentil with Flowering Kale Soup

2010-03-03T16:23:00.007-05:00

So it turns out that feeding 17 people can be quite a challenge and for an additional test of skill, do it at altitude (10,000 ft) in a rental house kitchen with dull knives. Well we pulled it off. With my two friends, Megan and Jenn (Jenn doubles as my sister), we cooked up quite the feast. On a few scraped knuckles later, we had a triumphant meal for 17 with Grilled cheese with Fontina, White Cheddar and spinach, 3-Bean Citrus Chili and Green Lentils with Flowering Kale Soup.

It became quite hard to predict the amount of ingredients needed to pull of this feet. But sticking to the basics of creating a good foundation with the Onions, Celery, Peppers (the trinity) for the chili and a mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onion) for the lentils, we pulled it off. I added jalapeño to both as well as garlic and diced tomatoes.

The hightlights were definitely the flowering purple kale in the lentils, the zest and juice of 2 oranges in the chili, and the perfect grilled cheese with spinach. And of course my two cooking companions, Jenn and Megan.

Megan and Jenn

Another highlight was mushing this team of dogs!

Valentine's Cake

2010-02-16T12:38:00.004-05:00

My Mom baked up a boxed yellow cake with chocolate icing. Now I really appreciate those who make baked goods from scratch, but this this cake was awesome. Light, moist, fluffy, and delicious. A real triumph in my opinion. A definite highlight of my trip to Connecticut.

My Mom showing off her creation.

A close up of the heart-shaped cake. She even swirled the icing on top all professional like.

Big Sister

2010-01-28T13:53:00.003-05:00

I wanted to say thank you. Thank you to my sister. Jennifer is much more than just by big sister. She's a friend. A best friend. And it's obvious from these old pictures that she's loved me from the start. How you could you not?

I think this is the first time she held me circa December 1979. See, I made her happy back then too.

Here's my dad reading a little Dr. Seuss to us. Would you believe I still remember my dad telling me stories and even singing to me as a child. "I've Been Working on the Railroad" really sticks in my head.

I'm pretty sure this was a thank you kiss for the book she just gave me.

I'm not sure why I'm all dressed up in a bow tie and velvet jacket and Jenn's sporting the pink and purple sweatsuit.

And she certainly is cool!

Pear, Argula, Roaster Pepper Sandwich

2010-01-14T14:07:00.001-05:00

On Sunday I was over at my sister's for a haircut and I managed to get a sandwich out of the deal. So it was multi-grain bread, hummus, garlic and herb goat cheese, roasted red peppers, Bosc Pear, and arugula. Moist and delicious and surprisingly sweet.

Eggs and Kielbasa

2010-01-04T14:47:00.003-05:00

Eggs and Kielbasa with Melted Swiss on toasted Honey Wheat Toast

This is a simple breakfast sandwich. My eggs were cooked over medium, the cheese melted perfectly and salty seared kielbasa. This was one great breakfast.

Skirt Steak, Brussels Sprouts and Yukon Gold Potatoes

2009-12-15T10:29:00.009-05:00

I'm going to let the pictures do most of the talking. The meal was pan seared skirt steak with sautéed mushrooms, roasted Brussels Sprouts, and seared Yukon gold potatoes. It was good.

The Brussels Sprout

Bottom sliced off.

Halved

Bowled

Tossed with Olive Oil, Salt and Pepper, Garlic, Ground Sumac (A Spice from Turkey)

Yukon Gold's

halved

Diced

Cremini Mushrooms

Skirt Steak

From http://whatscookingamerica.net/Q-A/SkirtSteak.htm Skirt Steak is a boneless cut of beef from the lower part of the brisket. Cut from the beef flank, the skirt steak is the diaphragm muscle (which lies between the abdomen and chest cavity).

THE RESULTS

French Lentils and Kale

2009-12-14T08:47:00.006-05:00

On a cold and rainy Sunday morning when my cold seemed to be never ending, I turned to a new hearty, healthy and warm meal. Lentils. I kept them pretty simple as I always do. French lentils, onion, garlic, jalapeño, fire roasted tomatoes, and kale. The recipe called for a lot of water and trust me it needed it. I also brought them to a boil and then back to a simmer and let them cook for a long time. I'd say about 30 minutes and then added the tomatoes for another 20-25 minutes of cooking time. I couldn't resist the urge and my first bowl included some very al dente lentils, albeit tasty. I nearly forgot to add the kale at the very end. I just rinsed the kale and added it directly to my bowl. I had a fresh and crusty baguette to accompany as well. It was a warm and fulfilling meal that has me feeling better already.

And then the meal was topped off by some great cookies from my friend Jessica. Peanut butter blossoms (aka neeps), chocolate chocolate mint filled delights, and some fudge.

Waffle House, a culinary adventure

2009-12-07T15:05:00.005-05:00

So while in the south (or anywhere for that matter) it is almost a requirement that one must go to the local Waffle House for some culinary mastery. I mean it's cheap, fast, tasty, and served with the perfect amount of butter/lard. I stuck with the two marquees of the Waffle House menu, waffles and hash browns.

We went to two different waffle houses on our trip to Mississippi.

This one in Biloxi.

And this one in Ocean Springs, MS.

I went with the pecan waffle on day one and the blueberry waffle on day two. And each time I went with hash browns, smothered, covered, and diced (if you don't know what that is, look it up).

Well it's sort of tasty, but it's more about the experience. I tend to stay away from the chains, but when there's one every mile or so, it's hard to resist. Now my colon might want to chime in when it comes to the after effects of the amount of shortening used, but hey, how often am I in the Southeast and eating at the WH, no not the White House, the Waffle House.

Simply Roasted Chicken

2009-10-21T16:06:00.005-04:00

As of late, I am trying to go simple. Simple flavors, seasonings, and methods. So last night I went for the simply Roasted Chicken. I looked up a quick recipe before I left work. I chose to use Thomas Keller's (perhaps America's most renowned chef) idea for my method.

Hot oven and salt and pepper.

So I roasted the 3 1/2 pound bird in my oven safe pan with white and regular sweet potatoes and carrots at 450 degrees F for 50 minutes. I put a generous "raining" of kosher salt on the bird and a few grinds of fresh pepper. (I also rinsed and dried the bird well). After 50 minutes, I let the finished product rest. I carved up half for dinner with steamed Broccoli and the roasted sweet potatoes and carrots. It was a fabulous, fall of the bone chicken. I had a little brown mustard on the side too (although completely unnecessary).

It was simple, it was delicious, it was one of the best chicken experiences I've had.

(I only have my cell phone camera, the blurry cam as I call it, so I borrowed this picture from another site).

Meal of Meat

2009-10-05T08:51:00.005-04:00

A few hours of cooking yesterday with some new and old friends really proved to be an ode to meat and more meat. We worked our way through pork, lamb, and beef. And we also had some terrific sides that proved to be awesome.

Grilled Scallions and Cherry Tomatoes

Yukon Gold Potatoes Gratin

Asian spiced Bok Choy and Red Cabbage

Sauteed Porcini and Shitake Mushrooms with a Shiraz Reduction

My Plate:

Spiced Lamb with Tzaziki, Grilled Ribeye with Sauteed Mushrooms and Onions, Grilled Scallion and Tomato Salad, Grilled Garlic and Herb Sausage with Spicy Brown Mustard, Potato Gratin, Spicy Bok Choy and Red Cabbage.

Red Lentil Soup

2009-10-05T08:48:00.005-04:00

A spoonful of tasty red lentil soup, made from scratch.

I added Jalapeno and Spinach for a little extra.

Something I wrote for a Friend a while back

2009-09-21T12:03:00.005-04:00

And Still

We’ve never really

Walked in the woods as old childhood friends did.

We’ve never

Slipped off a stone while crossing a stream.

We’ve never

Had the simplicity that truly old friends do.

But we are friends.

We’ve never

Laid in a field and laughed for no reason.

We’ve never

Counted the stars in a new moon sky.

We’ve never

Seen a sunrise because somehow we lost track of night.

But we are friends.

We’ve never

Shared the same piece of apple

We’ve never

Lost ourselves in the imagination of our youth.

We’ve never

Splashed in puddles in our bare feet.

But we are friends.

We’ve

Cried tears for the pain we’ve shared

We’ve

Cried tears for the laughter we could not contain

We’ve

Sat in perfect silence because it is still comfortable

And we are still friends.

We’ve

Seen the spectacular collision of cliff and sea.

We’ve

Shared secrets and kept them

We’ve

Skipped stones off tender waves of the Sound.

And we are still friends

We’ve

Sacrificed a little of ourselves for the other

We’ve

Sang songs out loud

We’ve

Smiled.

Simply smiled.

And we are still friends.

Mmmm...Bacon (with Lettuce and Tomato)

2009-09-04T11:55:00.007-04:00

Earlier this week a co-worker of mine had a BLT for lunch that she made at home. That of course left me salivating for one of my own creation. Now that we're in the middle of the amazing tomato season, I couldn't resist making this for dinner. The sandwich is one of my favorites. And the BLT is a great one. Simple, tasty, and Bacon.

Lightly toasted multi-grain bread.

Light smathering of Mayo.

Some crispy Bacon (yes I think Bacon should always be capitalized). I cook bacon in the oven with high heat and a little time (10 minutes) and you get perfection. Usually when the Bacon aroma permeates my whole apartment (which isn't too hard considering my limited square-footage), the Bacon is done (or close to it).

A gorgeous and delicious tomato (I ate the other half as a side)

Toast, mayo, tomato, Bacon and...

Spring Lettuce to finish.

And finally the second piece of toast.

The sandwich was delicious. It was salty, sweet, crunchy and I really want another one. Thank goodness I cooked all the Bacon and can have one tonight if I want.

Community Support Agriculture

2009-08-28T10:46:00.008-04:00

To make a long story short, I was able to get my hands on a friends portion of their CSA (CSA) this week. Included was a number of fun things but nothing terribly unusual, other than ground cherries. CSA's are a great opportunity and sharing program for both the urban dweller and the local farmer. I'm not sure how much my friend's paid and I'm sure there is cheaper stuff at the mega-grocery store. I do know that the tomatoes were perfect, the corn was sweet and savory, and the potatoes were gorgeous.

So last night I stopped at the store for some protein (flat-iron steak) and cooked up the rest with the portion of the CSA veggies: potatoes (purple and gold), white corn, hot chili pepper and plum tomatoes.

To start, I roasted the corn and potatoes at the same time. 425 degrees for about 45 minutes. While that was happening I marinated the steak. For the marinade, I chopped up the hot chili pepper and added soy sauce, mustard, Thai chili paste,

Sriracha Rooster sauce, fresh ground pepper and some toasted sesame oil. It was a quick 3o minute marinade, but it was tasty.

So after checking the potatoes and corn and giving them a turn, I fired up a super hot pan on the stove top. I drained a bit of the marinade off and tossed it in the pan. And after 4 minutes a side, and 5 minutes of resting, it was done. I sliced it against the grain and dinner was ready. I also wedged the tomatoes and with a little salt and pepper, they were set to go.

The final results. I also ate with chop sticks as it felt like a quasi-Asian meal.

I had to Photoshop these pics to lighten them up.

Summer Peaches

2009-08-11T10:05:00.004-04:00

As I finished my peach this morning for breakfast, I recalled that I had yet another fabulous peach a few weeks ago and it was so good that I took a few pictures. Isn't the summer glorious for fruit?

Black Bean Burgers

2009-07-24T10:28:00.005-04:00

So lately I have been eating a lot of black bean veggie burgers for two reasons. One, they are really quick. Two, they're pretty freaking tasty. So usually I have them on toasted multigrain with salsa and cheese or mustard. Or no bread, just salsa. This is my sister, Jenn's way. But I think they're too expensive, so this weekend I'm going to make my own.

I'm thinking a can of black beans, half crushed and half rough chopped, corn, egg, bread crumbs, onion, garlic, tomato paste, and salt and pepper. They have to be fairly easy to make, and much more cost effective than my current purchases.

Don't get me wrong I really like a good burger, but I have high standards. I've been to a few to many BBQs where the burgers are frankly murdered. For one, the peeps are cooking frozen burgers and then grinding the spatula into them to drain all possible juices out of them. I know these frozen, cheap burgers feed the masses, but they don't tantalize my taste buds.

Perhaps I can convince one of my grill-owning friends to host a burger cooking extravaganza. Veggie burgers, real burgers, lamb burgers, even bison perhaps. Even a "sliders" event perhaps.

Bruised

2009-07-08T09:34:00.005-04:00

So at my softball game, I was set to take a routine ground ball at third and then got the good ol' bad hop that left be bruised. The ball was hit hard, it hit off my wrist (as seen in the below pic) and then right to my jaw. Let's just say the guy was safe at first. The field is bumpy folks. This is two bruises in two weeks.

If you look closely, or in real life, you can see the laces of the ball. In the pic, they are just below the purple mark inside the red circle.

Tomato Tart

2009-07-07T16:36:00.005-04:00

Jenn and Martyn made this delectable delight for the 4th. I took pictures while waiting for the ride over to the party.

This is how Jenn described the process.

"Rolled out the dough and baked it and sprinkled parm as it came out of the oven. Then we mixed egg whites, ricotta cheese, thyme and spread it over the baked dough. Cut up farmer's market yellow and red tomatoes and spread over the tart and brushed it with olive oil and thyme, salt and pepper and baked until the tomotoes were roasted. Garnished with fresh basil. Yum!"

It was fantastic, even though I only got a few bites.

Putting the Roll in Nutroll...for the Fourth

2009-07-06T16:09:00.010-04:00

Confounded about what to make for the 4th of July party scene, I turned to the freezer and the handy favorite, puff pastry.

And what goes really well with puff pastry, well everything. But this time I turned to nuts. Nutroll to be more exact. It's exactly as it sounds and despite being covered in flour and gooey-ness, I snapped a few photos.

So first the ingredients.

Almonds, check.

Cashews, check.

And of course rum and honey. I also used cinnamon, dark brown sugar, cardamom, clove, and everyone's favorite, butter. I know this is baking, technically, but I didn't measure a thing. And since the puff was pre-made (yes I cheated with good ol' Pepperidge Farms), I was well on my way.

First, I rolled out the puff on a floured cutting board.

I then brushed it with a liberal amount of the rum and honey mixture.

Next I added an equally liberal amount of the brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and clove mixture.

Then the almonds and cashews, that I pulsed for about a minute in my food processor.

Then I put the "roll" in nutroll.

I made sure to butter the puff as I rolled to keep it all together, and to make it that much more buttery.

Then onto a lightly oiled sheet tray.

And into the oven at 400 degrees (F).

So I baked it at 400 for about 20 minutes. I checked after 15, and it needed sometime. In the meantime, I made a really simple icing. Powdered sugar and milk, with a splash of vanilla. Again, no measuring. But you only need a little bit of milk, like a few tablespoons to about 1/4 cup of powdered sugar.

This is the end result.

In retrospect, I would have used more butter on the outside of the roll to give it more of a sheen. But it was tasty.

He Said It Best

2009-06-30T08:35:00.004-04:00

My brother-in-law, Martyn, really writes a wonderful piece about our friend, Jeff White. Every time I think of him, it's a good memory and isn't that striking. While I also have a host of doubts, fears, hatred that arises when death takes someone prematurely, I must remember that this is my one "wild and precious life" and I will live it to it's fullest (or at least try).
Martyn's Blog Post

Sliced Tomatoes and Smoked Mackerel

2009-06-29T09:11:00.007-04:00

So being a bit tired and lacking both a plan and will to conjure up an amazing meal yesterday, I turned to a trusty stand by. Sliced tomatoes and smoked Mackerel on whole wheat toast. So just some salt and pepper on the tomatoes and the Mackerel and done. It's a simple dish that my sister and brother-in-law shared with me a while ago. I appreciate its taste, health and ease. And now tomatoes are starting to taste like, well, tomatoes.

Ah, fresh, ripe tomatoes with Salt and Pepper.

Smoked Mackerel, right out of the can.

So a no cooking meal that is simple, easy, and freaking delicious.

Father's Day Weekend

2009-06-23T08:48:00.006-04:00

So once again I was traveling this past weekend. And saw my godson Ethan and we celebrated his little brother's (Grayson) 1st birthday on Saturday.

Ethan is eating breakfast (and stretching?).

Grayson is giving me a big laugh.

And then I got to spend some time with my dad and the family. We went to two different Brewery's in two days. I'm pretty sure that was up my dad's alley. But at both places, my sister ordered the sampler of beers. What a good idea and a ton of beer for a reasonable price.

So it was another fun weekend, with little rest, but lots of fun (and beer).

Kitchen/Cooking Must-haves

2009-06-10T08:56:00.005-04:00

So I've been thinking about my ever growing collection of cooking gear. I made a pilgrimage to my favorite Restaurant Supply store in NYC a few months ago (CHEF Restaurant Supply on the corner of Bowery and Houston). I picked up one of my new favorite utensils that I can't stop using. It's a slotted fish spatula.

And I really love it. I don't just use it on fish. It has a thin blade and is flexible yet strong to hold items. It just makes me happy.

Everyone should also have a great knife. There are a lot of brands out there. I'm currently using Henckel's. German, trusty. I desperately need to get a sharpening stone for a couple of my knifes, but the edges have really held up nice. Global is also a good brand. A good chef's knife must feel good in your hand (I like heavier knives), and the sharper the better. I also don't technically have a chef's knife in my arsenal. I think that has to change. The Santoku is a good knife but it doesn't quite rock the right way on my cutting board. So to julienne and chiffonade are a little cumbersome. Maybe I'll rectify that this weekend.

Tongs are another absolute must. A good heavy cutting board too. Good towels also help in so many ways. So I use these along with my standard pots and pans all the time. The rest is gravy. Although I do enjoy the fun ones (i.e., the Mandoline or knuckle slicer).

More Photoshopping

2009-04-15T12:35:00.003-04:00

The Cliffs of Moher

Cwikla at the castle in Dublin.

Photoshopping

2009-04-09T15:47:00.003-04:00

Jenn And Martyn in the Metro

This was one of my favorite memories of Ireland.

Early AM Fire

2009-04-06T13:26:00.002-04:00

So Saturday morning our building was awoken to the fire alarm. And let me just say the fire alarm is an old school bell and it took me a while to figure out what the noise was at 6:45 AM. Apparently it was just a little smoke or something. But being sick and tired, it wasn't pleasant. My friends in the building, Karen and Dan, didn't hear the alarm. I'm going to have to check on them from now on.

Phillies Spring Training

2009-03-25T10:47:00.006-04:00

I'm not very good at remembering to take pictures on vacation. Here are some from last week's jaunt to Clearwater Florida.

This is where the Phillies play. Brighthouse Field in Clearwater Florida. The view from the outfield.

This is a sunset from the house we stayed at in New Port Richey.

Another Sunset (or the same one?).

In the Mini-van.

A view from our seats at the St. Pat's day game. Yes they are great seats and that is the beauty of Spring Training. I could have hit the guys in the dugout with my beer if I really wanted (and wanted to get kicked out).

My Dad and his friend Jerry. I played golf with Jerry twice.

That's Kyle Kendrick (recently sent to the AAA Lehigh Valley IronPigs) warming up before the last game.

Obama and the National Academy of Sciences

2009-03-11T08:37:00.001-04:00

Obama gave my organization a shout out of sorts today. Look at the 35 second mark when he's talking about Lincoln.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Recent Reading

2009-03-10T10:05:00.005-04:00

Saturday night I watched as 2 am became 3am, in the blink of an eye. Well in my case it was a quick recheck of my cell phone clock as I made my way home on the hour EST became EDT. Nevermind what I was doing at that hour (hanging out with a friend if you must know and not even at the bars). Anyway, I've decided recently to read more at night in order to get to sleep faster and to also enjoy the silence and inner reflection before I go to sleep. Saturday night at about 3:15 am, after the removal of contacts and brushing of teeth, I picked up a small book my Mom gave me called The Last Lecture. I began to read and before I knew it, it was 4:15. So I finally put the book down and drifted off to sleep.

I awoke the next morning and finished reading the book before ever getting out of bed. Don't get me wrong the book is short and quite quick to read. It was pretty moving for me. I think there are some good lessons about living your life and finding your own way. I was deeply saddened at some points, especially when Dr. Randy Pausch spoke of his children's future. I guess I thought of my friend who had lost her mother too early. I thought of another friend who's mother is battling similar cancer to the Pausch. I thought of all those people who left their children too early. I thought a lot. I hope for my friend who has to continue to grieve the loss of her mother. I hope for my friend who has to support her mother's battle. I hope for a humanity that cherishes both their parents and their children. I hope for my mother. Because she is doing well now, I hope that endures. I hope.

So I hope to read more. To experience other people's words through their words. To experience other worlds through the creativity of others. To experience the joys of life and the crushing lows as well.

Now I'm reading a much lighter book about golf stories. I picked it up for 50 cents at a work fundraiser. It has kept me up a lot longer the last 2 nights than I wanted or anticipated. That is the joy of reading though. You never know what you'll pick up next and what experience your mind will be thrust into.

Short Trip to a Far Away Land

2009-03-04T09:55:00.005-05:00

So on Sunday, Jared and I ventured to Fairfax to the Chinese Grocery. Upon arrival we found only 2 carts remaining and barely any room to move in the produce aisle. It was insane. I was amazed by the varieties and length of travel that some of these veggies took to get there. I did get some baby bok choy that was supper tasty. I also picked up some chop sticks (reuseable) that I used last night for cooking purposes and eating. They're like an extra set of tongs that are easier to clean.

Well Jared and I found some really interesting things at the "fish" counter. I think it more aptly name the live or almost alive counter.

Guess what's for sale?

Yes that's right, it's Frogs and Turtles.

Yes they were moving and jumping and frolicking in their last minutes and hours of life.

They also had yellow and white eels.

I passed on these offerings. I have eaten all of them though. I've had Unagi, or eel sushi. I've snacked on frogs legs. I've even eaten turtle soup. But I've never cooked it or seen it live before cooking.

Yikes. I did score some good and inexpensive Soy Sauce, Fish Sauce, Mirin and Toasted Sesame Oil. I also got some dumplings...yum.

I'll leave you with this departing shot of Vegetarian BBQ Sauce. What's wrong with this picture?

Is it possible?

2009-02-27T11:40:00.002-05:00

I understand that we all have been affected by the recession in some way. I thought I was fairly insulated but sometimes I feel like the collective downturn in the national attitude is rubbing off on me. I don't want it to. I want to keep an air of optimism.

What will it take to be better?

Beet it.

2009-02-24T09:39:00.002-05:00

I’ve been run over by a ride but I eventually got back on. I’ve hated things for no reason, but I eventually grown to love them. I lost a lot of time questioning myself rather than just doing it. I didn’t eat weird vegetables either because my mom couldn’t make them, I didn’t like the looks of them, or I was scared. I’m not scared anymore. I love them. I love the new surprise of something old becoming something new.

Take the Beet. It was never in my realm. It was something purple or red and pickled and scary and not for me. Now it’s something I cherish, pickled or not. It’s sweet, it’s a taste of the earth, yet not earthy. It’s a bit ugly but yet inside it reveals its majestic qualities. I think that’s what draws me to it now. It is a hidden pleasure. Not normal, but majestic. Nuanced.

Furniture and Presidents

2009-02-17T08:49:00.008-05:00

So Joan and Dave (aka Mom and Dad) were in town this weekend. And as promised they purchased a dining table and chairs for me. Thanks so much J & D (or M & D). By the way, my mom sent me a nice Valentine's Day card signed "Love, Joan and Dave (aka Mom and Dad)". I got a good laugh and teased my mom about it for a while. I think she was confusing me with my brother-in-law who does call them Joan and Dave.

"The Table"

"The Chairs"

And we also stopped by Arlington National Cemetery, final resting place to over 320,000 soldiers and their family members. I am not sure how to feel about that. They average 28 burials on weekdays, another staggering fact. I felt conflicted between the historical nature of the site and the fact that so many men and women have died for the country. Should we be traipsing on these hallowed grounds. I also felt this compelling need for silence and respect. The numerous school groups annoyed me with their fleeting and cavalier attitudes towards this place of awe.

I respect those who fight for our country. I just wish we didn't have to fight so much.

The right move by the Catholic Church?

2009-02-09T15:54:00.005-05:00

So the Catholic church is back at it again. The cause of the Protestant Reformation has been reinstated (well re-encouraged by Pope Benedict) by the Catholic Church. Indulgences. This isn't as obvious as it sounds, but it is a huge source of concern. Priests abused indulgences, "the full or partial remission of temporal punishment due for sins which have already been forgiven," in the 15th and 16th century leading to the Protestant Schism.

It would seem that the Catholic Church is trying with such desperate fortitude to draw Catholics back to the church. Perhaps it is their patriarchal, ultra-conservative stance on society that has ruined their reputation and sense of moral authority and not the extra-forgiveness that one seeks through indulgences. Indulgences did lead to the abuse of power and the rich seeking favor over the poor. It was also a significant source of fund raising for large capital projects, i.e., St. Peter's Basilica. It didn't seem to work back in the 16th century when Martin Luther posted his famous 95 Theses on the church door. Why will this theory (theology?) work now. It seems desperate and a scary road to go down.

Door of the Schlosskirche (castle church) in Wittenberg

to which Luther is said to have nailed his 95 Theses, sparking the Reformation.

When we fail to heed history's lesson, we are apt to follow its similar (and sometimes scary) path.

Speaking of Comedy

2009-02-09T13:42:00.003-05:00

So this past Saturday, I went to the DC Improv to see Ben Bailey, of Cash Cab, do his stand up. Jenn, my sister, got me and Martyn, my brother-in-law, tickets for christmas. Well it was freaking hysterical. I mean I was laughing so hard at one point I thought I was going to pass out from the lack of air. I cried. It was great. I mean Ben almost got in a fight with a patron, the patron was drunk and obnoxious and not picking up on the very clear clues to shut the F up.

Anyway, I couldn't recommend Ben Bailey enough and it was great to laugh so hard. I mean really amazingly fun.

Here is a clip from Ellen DeGeneres Show. The 4 minute mark is really funny.

Comedy is best with Friends

2009-02-02T13:05:00.002-05:00

So after the Superbowl last night, The Office came on. For those of you who stumbled away from their couch before this 1 hour of pure entertainment, you missed out. The show started off with Dwight conducting a very realistic fire drill. It was awesomely funny. Two hightlights, the cat and Kevin looting.

My friend Jessica was laughing so hard she cried. I was keeled over with laughter, thinking all the amazing food we had prepared might not last long in my stomach. It was amazing. Did I say that already?

The best part of comedy is sharing the laughter with someone. I've decided that I need to see comedies with others. I think I feed off others laughter and vice versa. It's going to be a new policy. Plus I love movies and will go to almost anything as I enjoy the entertainment of the big screen. I think the reason I didn't think Step Brothers with Will Ferrell was as funny as it could be was that I was alone when I watched it. Never Again!

I Choose Choice

2009-01-27T10:53:00.003-05:00

This was my response to a blog of an acquaintance of mine who writes on Beliefnet.com. The video is a pro-life message involving President Obama.

My Comment:

Life is an interesting term. It is defined by many in many different ways. Is your definition of life is when two gametes (reproductive cells) fuse to form another cell? [It's not mine.] Under that definition, I would suggest that than when a cancer cell invades a healthy cell than that is life. And destruction of cancer is not considered murder. I know this simplified, I am trying to be a little scientific and perhaps a little provocative. I also question the condition under which reproductive processes began. Under duress? I'm still not sure what life is, how it is defined, or if we should define it.

As I walked to work this past Thursday, I passed the services being held at the Verizon Center in Washington D.C. prior to the March for Life. Outside, there were signs that read, "We Choose Life!" My first reaction is to really be introspective into the words of that statement. They choose. Pro-life activists choose. As a believer in humanity, I can not take away another persons right to be and act how they wish. I can not tell a women what to do with her body, her womb, her choice. I can only believe that most true-hearted humans would choose to do what is best for them.

The video ends with "Life, Imagine the Potential." Who's life? Who's potential? Those are my questions.

Congratulations to Trish and Kahn

2009-01-22T11:44:00.003-05:00

So friends of mine Trish and Kahn had their first child yesterday. Kahn Gregory Peterson II was born and this is my favorite picture. This family makes me laugh and I wish them the best on their endeavors with KP2.

Inauguration

2009-01-21T09:33:00.004-05:00

First I was there. It was an amazing feeling to be there. As I stood on the Mall with my friends and family, I realized that I felt proud. I felt inspired. I felt a little bit of joy. I also felt the pain of my toes freezing. I was amazed at the good spirits of everyone.

I also went to the "We are One" Concert at the Lincoln Memorial on Sunday. So me and 2.5 million people bonded this weekend on the mall.

A Man of the City

2009-01-12T10:07:00.004-05:00

So Barack Obama dropped by Ben's Chili Bowl this weekend just as I happened to be approaching the same location on the bus to meet up with Jenn and Martyn.

It was a great experience and probably the closest I will get to the man. He waved upon exiting and it felt so genuine and I really appreciated him experiencing the city. Barack Obama will hopefully bring good energy to this city. This is in contrast to Premier G.W. Bush. His longest forray into the city lately has been to walk across the lawn to the awaiting Marine One, and hightail it out of the nation's capital. He detests the capitol and was/is never happy here. Maybe if he got out met some people, they'd appreciate him a bit more (if that's even possible).

While the nation dips into the thoughts of despair, I still have hope. I feel awkwardly insulated from this recession. Not that I don't worry a bit but I don't feel the pressure of it all. I hope my insulation will hold true for the continuation of this down and the eventual move back to prosperity. And still I hope.

As Einstein puts it...“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.”

Seconds among many

2008-12-16T11:26:00.003-05:00

If the Earth had formed a year ago, on January 1, life would have appeared on February 26, dinosaurs would have arrived on December 10 to vanish 16 days later, and Homo sapiens would only have showed up very late on December 31. a few minutes later, in less than one minute, man would have drastically altered the fragile balance between land, seas and atmosphere.

This was a quote I saw in Ireland at an art exhibit in St. Stephen's Green. Makes me ponder my own significance, and makes me contemplate the fragility of life.

Slumdog Millionaire

2008-12-16T08:16:00.002-05:00

I saw Slumdog Millionaire last night. It was great. Go see it.

Guess who's back, back again

2008-12-12T12:56:00.002-05:00

Shady's back, tell a friend.

So the trip to Golden was highlighted by 4 inches of snow. It felt so crisp and beautiful and mountain-like. Golden had a nice downtown charm, but yet felt uninviting at the same time. It felt invorating to clean the snow off the car. Wouldn't want to do it every day but something new.

I had great flights to Denver and then to Orange County and back to DC. I always sit in the window seat as I had getting bumped on the elbow. And luckily for me every flight had a lack of a middle seat passenger. So I was able to spread out and relax and actually sleep.

So now I'm back in DC and looking for a roommate.

Round the Country in 8 Days

2008-12-08T18:23:00.006-05:00

So from BWI I departed,
on a trip that spanned,
a few states, a district, and LA.

From the snowy foothills of Golden,
To the sunshine filled beaches of SoCal,
And then back to the District.

I'm not sure what lies for me back home,
I'm not sure who I will live with so very soon,
I'm not sure which day is today.

I miss my bed,
I miss my pillows,
I miss the familiarity of voices,
and my family, my friends.

A new salad to try

2008-11-25T18:01:00.003-05:00

So this Thanksgiving, I'm looking to try this.

Yes it is green jello salad.
Lime jello plus shredded carrots and celery with a side of mayo.

I really hope it's at the Minnesota Thanksgiving, if so I'm trying it.

What are you most looking forward to on Turkey Day? Happy Thanksgiving, eat, sleep, and be happy.

Wedding Part I

2008-11-10T21:27:00.004-05:00

Just a little taste from the wedding weekend.

The Phillies Win

2008-10-31T16:32:00.004-04:00

So this is a few days late. But the Philadelphia Phillies won the world series and the 2008 World Champions of Baseball. And to celebrate, Charlie Manuel, the Phils manager sported this hat.

So I was unfortunately in Boulder, Colorado for the final game. At least I wasn't on a plane. But I saw it all and it was great. I wish I was with my sister or Dad to celebrate but none-the-less, I cheered with myself.

I have to admit that tears welled in my eyes during the post game. I had a huge grin on my face, so tears, and I was really happy. It doesn't seem real. I can't believe this team, the one team I follow religiously actually did it. As a Philly Phan, you are naturally skeptical. And they proved me wrong. I was optimistic as possible but it was hard to really believe. But I've seen these guys for a many years. I've been to spring training for 6 years, except this year. I saw Chase Utley when he wasn't quite ready to ready to play in the bigs. I remember seeing Pat the Bat, come of age. I remember Ryan Howard kick Jim Thome out of town.

Those were some great times in Jack Russell stadium in St. Pete. And those were some great times with my dad.

Baseball is a serious commitment. 162 games. For the Phillies, it was 176 games to win it all. And it was great.

The Family at the Phillies game (Martyn is wearing the wrong hat).

World Series

2008-10-16T09:19:00.002-04:00

So the Phillies are champions of the National League. They've won the pennant. Philly has its stars but they all didn't shine bright at the same time. Instead, someone new gave them a boost each night. Cole Hamels was the NLCS MVP. He deserved it, but my votes would have been for Shane Victorino or Ryan Madson. Victorino, the Flyin' Hawaiian, was really remarkable. He hit well, fielded better and was so upbeat about it all. He was having fun. And is anything more important.

So I missed a lot of the debates watching the Phillies clinch. My observations were this, McCain was heated. And he had to be; he had to be confrontational. Did it work and will it help him? No. It won't. He does not have the answers to my questions.

I have a friend who will not vote in this election. This person is disenfranchised to politics and the abhorrent feeling it brings to her. I, on the other hand, will vote. I vote because it is my duty to participate in a federal republic. It is my right that was given to me. Being a white male, my demographic was never denied the right to vote. But does not the history of this country's women and minority population struggles to gain suffrage show the importance of voting. To my friend who will not vote, you do matter. If you don't like how politics is played, vote to change it. Choose a representative that believes in change of the political process, that believes in campaign finance reform, that believes your opinion matters. Your vote matters very much on the local level. If you don't like the state of your roads, your schools, your hospitals, the way your money being spent vote for someone who shares your views, directions, desires. Participation is the only way a democracy works. Take a few minutes to read about your choices. Write-in a candidate. Become involved in your local government.

The only way the disenfranchised can achieve something different is to stand up against those who disenfranchise you.

Cleared of Wrong Doing?

2008-10-14T09:40:00.001-04:00

Shoelaces Rant

2008-10-14T09:17:00.003-04:00

So I have these relatively new black dress shoes. I wear them to work. I've had them for a few months. Perhaps I wear them twice a week. So that's about 15-20 times total and this morning as I was tightening them to tie them, the lace snapped. Now nothing is more frustrating, as I don't have spare black, dress shoe laces just sitting around. Anyway, I don't understand why they have to be so freaking fragile. This is definitely not the first pair of shoelaces have broken on newer shoes.

What is up with the shoelace manufactures? Are the purposely making shoelaces that self destruct so that we are forced to by new ones? And how come you can never find the right replacement pair? There are only these crappy, often too short one in stores. I'm so pissed about this. It's not like I have a back-up pair of laces or black shoes for that matter. I also just bought a new pair of brown shoes, are those laces doomed? They are similar in style to the black laces.

I mean I like my shoelaces tight, but I'm not ripping at these as hard as possible. What the F*%K?

Rant over....where do I get quality replacements?

Taxes and Civilization

2008-10-08T09:02:00.005-04:00

"No one said it better than Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes: 'I like paying taxes. With them I buy civilization.' "

Thomas Friedman was really spot on with his column today. Paying taxes is patriotic. Do I agree with where every nickel goes? Of course not. Do I think most of it goes to good things? Yes. Naive as that may be, it is my belief. Our leader needs to prioritize our system.

Obviously my future brother-in-law and I are very much on the same page and have been reading the same stuff. His eloquence is better. Read it.

And John McCain, you are not my friend. No matter how many times you may say it, you're not. I dont' know you and you certainly don't know me. This tactic, "my friends," may work on the stump, but not for me.

A weekend of Celebration

2008-10-06T11:15:00.005-04:00

Twas a weekend of fun and festivities, celebration and friendship, and of course, champagne. The Philadelphia Phillies are in the National League Championship Series (with the LA Dodgers). After a stumble on Saturday night, they pulled through Sunday afternoon, courtsey of the Home Run. All 6 runs were results of home runs.

More importantly, I threw a party for Jenn and Martyn. A wedding shower, jack and jill style, for the couple celebrating their nuptials in 33 days. We had the local DC guests (and some non-locals) in for a gathering. I created the obligatory shower game of word scramble and trivia, which turned out better than I suspected. Here's an example:

Unscramble this famous couple (answer will be at the bottom of the post):

lfrl hi daka & or give eirda

Then we showed the slide show of pictures of "Jenn and Martyn: Past and Present." I worked diligently on this project for way too many hours, but it all paid off in the end. It was about 200 slides of Jenn and Martyn from baby to present, set to music. It was great and I personally loved the reaction of everybody. It turns out my hard work paid off. I think we'll show it again at the rehearsal dinner.

Jenn at 12 Weeks

Martyn: a few months old

Jenn and Me

Jenn and Martyn Now

I stopped at Total Wine for some tasty beverages and thanks to a suggestion from my friend Jessica, I found some tasty mediterranean treats at the Mediterranean Bakery in Virginia. The Hommous, Tabouli, Baba, and Tzaziki were great. I bought a ton of super fresh pita as well. It was such a great addition. I can't recommend this place enough. I also had vegetables and cheeses and chips and salsa (jenn's favorite food).

The party was fun and we stayed late. There were some minor problems (a few broken wine glasses and slight scrapes). The Theme: Jenn and Martyn '08, it could have been worse. In reality it was fun but I am glad that pressure is off.

Stats for you.

13 Days until Jenn's B-Day

29 Days until the election (hopefully of Obama)

33 Days until the wedding

105 Days left of W.

2028 Days since the beginning of the Invasion of Iraq

Answer to scramble: Frida Kahlo & Diego Rivera

The Post and the Turtle

2008-10-01T13:16:00.002-04:00

So simple yet so clearly true.

So this is from an email I received. It's just spot on.

'You know she didn't get up there by herself, she doesn't belong up there, and she doesn't know what to do while she's up there, and you just wonder what kind of dummy put her up there to begin with.'

Name that turtle!

Science Statement

2008-09-26T15:27:00.004-04:00

I work in the science policy field and I feel this statement is one of the main reasons we need Barack Obama as president of the United States.

Unfortunately, the current Administration has undermined the integrity of U.S. science policy. It has stacked scientific advisory boards, suppressed research that conflicts with its political agenda, failed to make decisions on the basis of the best available evidence, and prevented government scientists from speaking openly with the public and the media.

This was taken from INVESTING IN AMERICA’S FUTURE: BARACK OBAMA AND JOE BIDEN’S PLAN FOR SCIENCE AND INNOVATION

I can not endorse a candidate who's running mate supports Intelligent Design and believes Global Warming is a hoax.

Reaction to Billion Dollar Bailout

2008-09-26T14:46:00.005-04:00

So this an email chain with my coworker and I this afternoon with the subject "Should I send this out?"

On Fri, Sep 26, 2008 at 11:04 AM,

These are trying times for our country. The collapse and/or forced sale of many of our nation's largest and most trusted banks and instability in various markets has caused significant doubt about the future of our economy. As a result, I am hereby suspending all work in cubicle and surrounding areas (hallway), in order to work on this crisis. In order to keep America strong, I am also postponing my long-scheduled meeting with the Dr. So andSo to discuss my work ethic and the broad range of computer games I play during work hours, as this is no time for talk about games. What we need right now is not talk, which is terrorism, but action. Therefore, I will immediately rush to my home to work the phones promoting a $40 bailout plan for my dinner, which I had planned to eat at the Thai place around the corner but which is now in a state of considerable uncertainty. I assume that all other patriots in this building will help me in this effort. God bless me, and God bless America.

Anonymous

And my response...

On Fri, Sep 26, 2008 at 11:14 AM

Dear Staff,

As this crisis seems to escalate, I, unlike Senator Obama, will join my mate and also suspend activities in my cublicle as well, in order to counsel my colleague and the nation in it's quest to relinquish itself from the greed of a few and restore order. I will do so by reinvesting in the local economy through investment in the choicest hops and finest edibles. I will make direct contact with the economic machine of this country's capital. I will find the answer through the lens of an empty pint glass and fully contemplate the percentage of bailout I will attach to the required cost of said consumption, in the form of gratuity.

There is no price to large, no time of contemplation too short, no time to waste. God Bless all.

Communication & Politics

2008-09-23T13:19:00.002-04:00

So this past week I've been wondering how do I communicate to my peers, my acquaintances and those I don't know the importance of November 4th when we elect a new president?
How do I let everyone know that our decision on one day is so important for 1461 days that follow?
How do I transcend the passion and emotion of my feelings towards politics and the elections and really inform?
How do you argue constructively and correctly with an non-accepting audience that can only counter with emotion and anecdotal evidence?
How do I assure everyone that their choices matter?

There are a number of people in my life that run the spectrum of politic views. From the non-voter, to the lefty liberal, to the righty conservative. It is is hard to convince those who are unaccepting of your views to understand your position and appreciate your point-of-view.

For now I will send them interesting articles like Maureen Dowd's columns from the New York Times.

I'd appreciate any advice.

Celebrating Bachelorhood

2008-09-15T11:45:00.007-04:00

This weekend marked marked 8 weeks until Jenn and Martyn tie the knot. The boys and girls had their respective bachelor parties this weekend. All I know is the boys had fun. Despite a rained out baseball game and sweltering temperatures, we had a good deal of fun.

9 out 10 of us.

We had dinner at Central in DC. It was a great meal and we all certainly stuffed ourselves. The charcuterie plate was really amazing and the faux gras (chicken liver instead of duck) was really extraodinary. For my meal I also had the filet mignon tartare (seen below). It had a nice kick of Tabasco. For dinner I had braised beef cheeks, which were really good. they came with a carrot puree and fettuccini. I think the boys enjoyed the meal in the private room in the kitchen.

Martyn made it until 4:20 am on Saturday (well sunday i guess).

Weekend of News??

2008-09-08T14:05:00.003-04:00

During my visit to Allentown, Pennsylvania this weekend, I spent a few hours at my grandfather's house. And all he watches is Fox News. Fox News mantra on their homepage is "We Report, You decide." I beg to differ. Most know of the political agenda and the right leaning of the Fox News Channel. So I've been interested. And recently, The Daily Show has just been amazing with great quotes, comparisons, and clips, like this one. The 3 minute mark with Senators Foghorn Leghorn and Droopy Dog are outrageous.

So I've heard that more of my generation gets its political news from The Daily Show with Jon Stewart than from traditional sources. The statistics show that TDS and Colbert Show viewers are more knowledeable on world affairs than Fox News. I'm not suprised. When Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert joke or satirize the political craziness, smart people enjoy it. I would assume (not the best way to conclude things) that those who watch JS and SC read newspapers and get their news elsewhere too. They just really appreciate the humor slant that the dynamic duo from Comedy Central provide. I know politics doesn't appeal to all, but it certainly is intriguing, it certainly is funny.

Happy Birthday Dad!

2008-08-28T09:41:00.004-04:00

So my dad, David S. Rogers turns 60 today. Umm...that's old. He knows it and I love him. I also sent him this ecard from Someecards.com. They are funny.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD.

I've just come up with a new nickname for my dad, "Twenty Questions." Anyone who's been interrogated by him, will know this works. Maybe I'll call him 20Q for short.

Nick and the White Peach

2008-08-27T13:31:00.006-04:00

So I just may have had the best peach of my life. It was a white peach. Sweet and succulent and great texture. I had it in the refrigerator this morning, something I wouldn't normally do with fresh fruit. But it had a nice slight chill and was so close to perfect.

This is a picture of a slice of this wonderful peach. I took the photo with my phone. That's how good it was; I had to take a picture in the middle of eating it.

Why are we not there yet?

2008-08-27T12:57:00.006-04:00

My life has been surrounded by a multitude of strong, brilliant women. I am most fortunate to learn from these women and so often in awe. The last two nights I have watched Michelle Obama and Hillary Clinton address the Democratic National Convention. And while they are markedly different in their background, approach, and goals, it is clear that they are special. Am I shocked? Absolutely not.

The reason I am not at all surprised by the remarkable success and strength of Michelle and Hillary, is the remarkableness of the women in my life. My mother is such a kind soul and makes me laugh. It is really simple, making me laugh is so important to me. My mom has endured and is so courageous. I know I am super biased, but she is amazing. She's been a wonderful mother and a pillar of the feminine in my life. My friend, Ali, challenges me to think in different ways. She has opened my eyes to new perspectives and new avenues of thought. And, most importantly, she has a great smile and uses it often. Smiling is inviting and again so important to me. Emily, my friend, really understands. She knows how to listen. Em has always been really honest with me, and isn't that so important?

Then there is Jenn, my sister. I don't know if there is anyone in this world who believes in me more. She is brilliant, strong, sweet, vulnerable, affectionate, and beautiful. She has challenged me to be better and praised me for my accomplishments, however small. I am astounded by her. How am I so lucky to have a sister and a best friend, all in one? But it is not just the emotional that Jenn encompasses. She is a leader. She is accomplished. She has an abiding belief in herself and those people and things that are a part of her realm.

So this brings me to my question. Why are we not there yet? Why is it not a women taking the podium on Thursday to accept the Democratic nomination? Why is it not a women being sworn in as President in January? Why has the patriarchy prevailed? Well that will have to remain my question. But know this, when society as a whole realizes what I know, women and men will truly be equals.

I thank all the women in my life. I thank them for teaching me to think from a new perspective. I thank them for being such pillars. I thank them for them. I am so honored to have grown with the inspiration of such wonderful women.

K-Box

2008-08-25T11:13:00.008-04:00

So Saturday night I hit up the Korean K-box (Karaoke Box, click here for the wikipedia entry for explanation). Let's just say if this current career doesn't pan out, I may have a career on the Karaoke circuit. Anyway, it is always a lot of fun, and since you're in a private room with just your friends, you can be daring. Take the below video for example.

This video is my friend Jared pumping out a mean version of Percy Sledge's "When a Man Loves a Woman." (Michael Bolton also recorded a version of it. Let's just say it's rare and unusual, but mighty confident.

Eggs

2008-08-21T13:49:00.004-04:00

The only egg that is cooked over high heat is the omelet. To achieve the properly cooked egg you desire, use low heat. Did you ever notice the water that oozes out of your scrambled egg? That is because it was cooked on high heat. Low and slow. And lots of stirring makes the perfect, non-watery scrambled egg.

My Niche of Prayer

2008-08-19T08:58:00.007-04:00

After watching some boring Olympic events, I wandered onto a site that my future brother-in-law, Martyn, has written for, KillingtheBuddha.com (KtB). I was drawn to one of the headlining, recent post by Dr. Stephen Prothero, as he is Martyn's dissertation adviser.

Prothero discusses his visit to the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem and his thoughts on Obama's visit and prayer offered to the Wall. One of the lines from the article struck me. "And the mystic in me knows if God is anywhere then God is everywhere." I read this line a few times. It is simple and powerful. And really makes me contemplate my connection to the Divine, right down to the core belief in something that powerful and omnipresent.

You see, religion has weaved an interest tale in my own history. I was raised a Roman Catholic. I was baptized and confirmed in the RC Church and attended, albeit mostly forcibly, for the better part of my youth. Yet as I learned more history and science and moved past what I was supposed to believe to how I want to believe, my connection to the Catholic traditions faded to oblivion. While I believe the intentions and underlying principles of Catholicism are good-natured, I can not look past its artificial traditions that are exclusive and damning, instead of inclusive and open-minded.

How can a woman not be as divine as a man. Why do priests in the Catholic church have to be male? Why has this patriarchal tradition held women to second class status, in both positions of power and trust in their strength to decide what is right for themselves and their bodies? The definition of catholic (lower case "c") is "universal in extent, involving all; of interest to all." At some point, perhaps at the Councils of Nicaea, the church failed to recognize this simple meaning. It failed to involve or be of interest to all. But I digress.

The reason I felt a connection to Prothero's piece is that this professor has struggled with some of the many issues I to have with religion. One reason I still struggle is my conflict with prayer. There are many times when I wish to pray and begin to even. Yet I don't know who or what to? What is it accomplishing? Thinking about it now, I don't know if there is a right answer. Perhaps just praying to myself is sufficient. Perhaps the act of silent contemplation and sharing myself with myself is okay. Perhaps the multitude of thoughts, struggles, and conflicts that I keep unshared and couped up should be openly discussed, even if its only with myself and in my "prayers."

So, like many others, I struggle to understand it all. I strive to believe in the strength and beauty of the human spirit, while recognizing the short-comings in ourselves as well.

And for now, my "church" doesn't have to be anywhere, it can be everywhere.

Vivid Dreams

2008-08-18T09:05:00.004-04:00

This morning's alarm interrupted another vivid dream. It would seem lately that I have been having an increasing amount of vividness in my dreams. I have not tried to remember these dreams, but I have taken note of the beauty, amazement, and utter craziness of their occurrences. Recently I did a little bit of research, aka googled vivid dreams, and was not pleased with the results.

I found little other than the fact that many pregnant women experience them with the hormonal changes that occur during the pregnancy. Being that I am not pregnant, nor a woman, I am unsatisfied with that explanation. Yet, I am also somewhat reassured. I am definitely entering REM Sleep and therefore getting into the deeper stages of sleep.

Tomatoes are Back

2008-08-11T17:03:00.003-04:00

In season, local tomatoes are back and fresh and amazing. As a kid I never appreciated the joy of a wonderful tomato. Now, it certainly is different. Summer is such a wonderful time for fresh vegetables.

Jenn had some wonderful tomatoes this weekend. Gorgeous, red, terrific. A dash of salt is all they needed, if that. But with a bit of fresh mozzarella, basil, a bit of salt and pepper, just plain amazing. Heirloom tomatoes are great and a luxury. But even the standard tomato are wonderful too, if they're local and fresh. And I'm the person in the store and market touching everyone and smelling the stem for odor and freshness.

This is the time of year to eat raw, fresh foods. When it's hot and humid, there is nothing like an al fresco meal. It's quick, easy, and so fulfilling.

Guess Who?

2008-08-08T12:02:00.005-04:00

Check out the leisure suit in this picture. What were they thinking?

In Memory of Joanne Cwikla

2008-08-08T11:36:00.004-04:00

It has been a week now that my dear friend Emily's mother passed away. Joanne Cwikla was an extraordinary woman who raised three remarkable daughters. I spent a few hours with Emily and I marvel at her strength, her vulnerability, and her love. I have many fond memories of the Cwikla family but most of all, I remember the Birthday Bear singing and Joanne with her wonderful smiling all through the song. May the spirit of Joanne live forever in her daughters and granddaughter.

Baseball with Dad

2008-07-31T09:50:00.005-04:00

There is something about going to baseball games that bonds my dad and I together. We've been to countless number of games in my lifetime. From the one's in the Yankee stadium corporate box seats to the March sunshine in Florida's Spring Training. Baseball has been a bond that my father and I have shared for quite a while, perhaps for as long as I can remember. Like many father/son relationships, sports, and namely baseball, has allowed the father/son relationship to be uncomplicated. Despite the squabbles of my father's and my relationship over the years, we've almost always have found time to catch a game.

One of the many reasons baseball works with my dad and I is that we can talk about almost anything baseball related throughout the entire game. Or we can just sit an enjoy the green grass, the deep brown dirt, and the marvel of a round ball, a round bat, and the intense struggle control those two things, that make up the game. Last night, the three hour game seemed like a flash. I can not recall the conversations we had specifically but we talked almost the entire game. I guess I really appreciate the time that my dad and I can spend together. I appreciate the fun little facts that we tell each other. There is an enormous history of my father's youth that is encompassed in baseball and an enormous history of my youth in baseball of which my dad was all apart of. I am quite lucky in that regards.

I remember when I was a little squirt in Pee Wee ball and made that unassisted Triple Play, my baseball claim to fame. I remember my dad and I almost fighting everyday when I was 13 and he was coaching my team. Yet that was one of my best years of playing. I remember the first spring training when it was just my dad and I in Florida, watching games and soaking in the sun. I have a lot of good memories of my time with my dad with baseball and hopefully more to come.

Intense Cooking

2008-07-28T09:46:00.005-04:00

A flurry of cooking this weekend and not much sleep but it was a successful weekend. Jenn's shower seemed to go well. I was up to 1 am on Friday and then up at 6:30 am on Saturday. I finished the set-up by 12 noon and let the girls celebrate.

The Menu:

Appetizers/Hor D'oeurve
Hummus - w/ carrots, peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, pita
Tzatziki - w/ above veg
Fruit Display (Pineapple, Cantaloupe, Kiwi, Strawberries, Blackberries, Blueberries)
Tomato/Mozzarella/Basil Skewers
Brie with Apple/Cranberry Chutney
Cheese & Crackers

Mains
Quiche (for 20 people)
-Spinach tomato feta
-Broccoli mushroom swiss
-Spinach, mushroom, spinach, feta, tomato

Veggie/Turkey Wraps

Sides

Tuna Salad (non mayo style)
Green Mesclun Salad with pears, pecans, cranberries(or cherries- dried) with a balsamic vinaigrette
Asian Green Bean and Carrot Salad with sunflower seeds and light Asian Vinaigrette

English Muffins with Jams/marmelades

Desserts
Chocolate, Chocolate Mouse Cake - Andrea's bakery

Weird Eats

2008-07-24T16:10:00.005-04:00

I was trying to think of the weirdest thing that I've eaten. I think its Rocky Mountain Oysters. I was 19 in Montana after my Freshman year in college. I remember we pounded some beers before we (my boys from HS) went to this bar in western Montana for the Testicle Festival. It sure was interesting and I definitely could have used a few beers to wash them down.

Foie Gras is weird to some but not me. I've had it a few too many times to call it weird. It certainly is tasty. Hudson Valley New York has some great Foie Gras.

Escargot are too tasty to be weird. Cherry Tomatoes stuffed with escargot with a Pernod Butter. Oh my great.

Thoughts?

Green Beans

2008-07-23T10:29:00.007-04:00

Green beans are one of my favorite vegetables. Actually I like pretty much every vegetable. They also happen to be super easy to make. I really like the French Variety, Haricot Vert (remember the French don't pronounce the t at the end).

I am making a recipe this weekend that is Asian inspired. It is Asian Green Beans with Carrot and a light Peanut Sauce.

Ingredients:
Green Beans (pound or so)
One Large Carrot
Chunky Peanut butter
Soy Sauce
Vegetable Oil
Toasted Sesame Oil
Rice Wine Vinegar
Sesame Seeds
Green Onion (Scallion)

First you trim the green beans. You only want to remove the end that was attached to the actual plant. In the picture below its the end on the lower left.

I'll blanch the green beans very quickly in boiling water (a minute or so depending on their size) then immediately cool in an ice/water bath to stop the cooking. They should be bright green.

Peel the carrot and julienne. I will use my mandoline.

To make the peanut sauce, use a heaping spoonful of peanut butter (I only have chunky in my cabinet, and prefer it because it adds some crunch). Add about a table spoon of soy sauce, vegetable oil and toasted sesame oil. Then whisk in the rice wine vinegar until a smooth consistency that will coat a spoon but is not too thick. Unlike normal vinaigrettes that start thin with the goal of thicker, this sauce starts really thick and you thin it out.

I toast sesame seeds in a heavy bottom skillet. I would use medium heat and keep a really close eye on them. Swirl the pan and toss the seeds frequently. They'll turn a slight brown fairly quickly (but also go to burned fast as well). I also really thinly slice the green onion on a bias (angle) and set aside for garnish.

So just toss the beans and carrot with the peanut sauce and remember not to over dress the veggies. Top with the toasted sesame seeds and green onion.

Vinaigrette

2008-07-22T08:52:00.007-04:00

I have been making my own salad dressings, namely vinaigrettes for years now. I really am always disappointed with the pre-made junk you get at the store. Having worked in a professional kitchen and worked the garde manger station (cold station) for many a dinner service, I made all of our dressings. From Blue Cheese to Balsamic Vin, from Sherry Shallot to a Warm Red Wine, Panceta Vinaigrette. It's fun, tastier, and easy. Just pick flavors you like.

Here are a few recipes. Remember though I do it all by eye and taste. You have to taste everything, preferably with a few leaves of lettuce. Let me also say I love the acidic side of vinaigrettes.

Classic Mustard Vinaigrette:

This super simple recipe is a summer classic that works well on a house salad, on potato salad, and pretty much my go to recipe, because I always have most of the ingredients around.

Ingredients:
Mustard (Brown or Dijon)
Vinegar (Cider, Champagne, White, Red Wine)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (although there are so many great oils that are out there, i.e., sesame oil)
Garlic (Fresh chopped preferred, but dried, granulated works)
Salt (little if any)
Pepper (i love pepper, but a few fresh grinds are good)
Fresh Herbs (if you have them, Chives, Parsley, Thyme are all great and add great color)

Option 1 (Old School):
So add the mustard and vinegar to the bowl with the garlic, salt and pepper, herbs. mix thoroughly with a whisk.
Slowly drizzle in olive oil. If you are pouring directly from a bottle you bought, hold a finger over the end to slow the flow. You want to add the oil slowly so that it incorporates almost instantly, if it appears "oily" slow down the oil.
(TIP: if you are using a metal bowl that moves easily when whisking, wrap a kitchen towel into a ring around the base of the bowl. This stablizes the bowl from moving too much when whisking. A damp cloth work even better).

Option 2 (Blender):
Use your blender or food processor and add everything but the oil and herbs (you can add chopped herbs at the very end for a final pulse). Open the top of the blender cap and drizzle in oil. This is easier, but I don't own a blender or food processor, and it seems silly for small quantities.

That's it. You can make some many variations of the above vinaigrette by just changing the acids (citrus juices or vinegars) or the oils.

DC to PA

2008-07-21T08:33:00.001-04:00

Despite a lot of driving this weekend and the speed of the weekend, it was pleasurable. Jenn and Martyn had me over for dinner on Friday. We had an al fresco meal. Hummus, tabbouleh, cabbage, carrots, pita, and some other good stuff, including wine. It was relatively easy and really satisfying on a hazy and humid day.

Saturday morning, after some delays at the metro and waiting behind disgruntled customers of the rental car kiosk, I got my car for my ride up for my godson's 3rd birthday. So it was an easy drive and the rental car had Sirius Satellite radio, which was cool. The party was fairly low key and a good short time. It was also good to see my friend Chad, my godson Ethan's dad and my college roommate. He is a good person and despite the long absence we always seem to reconnect fairly easily. I guess when you live with a person for that long (almost 3 years) you develop a good bond. Their family is doing well with the addition of their second son, Grayson. So I stayed over and got some extra time with Ethan and Grayson. It was fun to play with kids and hold the 3 week old but also pleasing to hand him off when the crying intensified to screaming.

On the way home to DC on Sunday, I met Jenn and Martyn at the National Arboretum. We toured around by car a bit after checking out the herb garden section. I think Martyn and I were envious of the variety and would like to have a few them for our cooking endeavors.

Fam

2008-07-18T16:02:00.002-04:00

Me and Jenn

Left to right, Martyn (future Brother), Jenn (sister), Ali (practically my sister).

Joan (mom)

Dave (Dad)

Emily (friend for as long as my memory serves me)

So this is the family. I love them all.

First Post:

2008-07-18T15:25:00.000-04:00

Not really sure why I am deciding to blog now but frankly, I'm bored at work and want to. So welcome to me. I'll provide more in the days to come.