Running. Must increase this activity. I have a 1/2 Marathon in seven weeks. De ja vu. It is something about 2011 where my training is lacking. The first 1/2--I think I referred to it as the worst showing ever--also, had similar training issues. Uninspired to run and unmotivated to push the performance. Instead I relied on muscle memory and hoped the Goddess would run at my pace. Thankfully, we had similar ideas about how to approach the Horsetooth Half. Neither of us were perky in that race. Somehow we managed to entertain each other with lack of training stories while running the race. Post race, we were tired, but not too sore. That bloody mary was divine.
In August, we have the Georgetown 1/2 that I am truly looking forward to. This will be my 3rd consecutive year of running it, too. It is a beautiful course and nostalgic as it was my first 1/2 Marathon. I remember the last 500 yds and being able to sprint. Afterwards, I wondered where that came from. It came out of nowhere and I loved sprinting towards the finish. Momentum and the crowd inspired this--I believe.
Last year, I ran the race, solo, and committed to improving my time. Determined to run the race without stopping. At mile 8, I had to tie my shoe and took a brief walk break. When I crossed the line I was surprised that I finished a minute after my first race. How could this happen? I ran the course and hills. There was only one stop break and it was brief.
The first year, I struggled. I hated it. I was new to running and I convinced myself that I should stop. Lindsay stayed with me and encouraged me to keep going. I have no idea how I did not improve my time the second go around. Some days are better than others is what I chalk it up too. After the second race, I felt more confident as a runner. I let go of my expectations and focused on improving my overall performance.
This year, I want to have fun inspite of my lack of training. I intend to have a better showing than the first 1/2 of 2011. And, I want to sign up for one or two more. I haven't completely opted out of a full marathon this year either. I still have time to decide. I feel that joining a running group would assist me in this process. I must do it. It will motivate me to actually train. Last year while training for the marathon in Las Vegas, I ran the Healdsburg 1/2 in October. Not my best time, but I felt fantastic after the event. In great condition and healthy. I suppose that is what I am striving for. I know that I am capable of the training, and that, I benefit from the experience. Half marathons can be fun and a bonding experience. I will find a group to run with and I will be motivated to improve the time.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Friday, June 17, 2011
thoughts
I overslept. Not really. I woke up at 7:30. For me, that is oversleeping.
Lately, it seems that I wake up at 6 am sharp. Every day. With or without wine involved, it seems. The sun shines and I am up. Startled, sometimes, sure. I wake up and contemplate my daily run.
Today, it was out of the question. I missed the window of opportunity.
I wanted to be active and so I did a strength training routine--push ups, sit ups, squats, lunges--intermixed with jump rope and jumping jacks. I considered doing sprints, too, but decided against it. Instead, I incorporated yoga and finished with meditation. Brilliant move. I felt at ease, peaceful, calm, centered and alive. Present, 100%, and available to whatever happens today. I am grateful that I opted to meditate instead of beating myself up for missing the run.
I reflected on my thoughts as I walked to the mailbox. I had read a post about communication and feeling more adept to communicate via text, e-mail or blogging, and unable to make sense in the speaking medium. I don't know if I struggle with that realm, the personal conversations department, as I have ample opportunities to strike up conversations with people. Yes, I do get caught up with texting, e-mailing, blogging, at times, but know that these mediums do not take place of an honest to goodness heartfelt face to face conversation.
This past week I have networked with old friends and put myself in situations to meet new people. I love it. I am so thankful for the people that I am meeting. I feel renewed/rejuvenated almost.
Or, I feel it is imperative to send cards, notes, letters to friends as a way to keep in touch, too. Last week, for instance, I had two opportunities to express sympathy. Not that I relish that occasion--I don't. Grief is horrible. I wouldn't wish this emotion on my worst enemy. It robs you of time, of life, of love and moving forward.
I found their individual addresses and expressed my condolensces. Each circumstance was unique and I know that my voice was different due to that and how I knew the person I sent the card too. I texted my one friend to tell her I was sorry and followed through with something I feel is more appropriate and meaningful.
I am surprised at the amount of people that post on facebook about grief. For me, it is entirely too personal to have out there. I do believe a phone call, card or visit, is the way to express sympathy. Yes, it takes effort and requires time. Posting on a wall seems impersonal. This is how I feel about it. But, I have experience with it and I remember how difficult it was to talk to people as time went on. This is one area that we do not discuss in our society it seems. I remember being given multiple casseroles to ease the pain. I wasn't hungry. Thankfully, my guests enjoyed the nourishment. Regardless, it felt that I was supposed to move on, immediately, from the grief the next day. I couldn't. I was overwhelmed with emotion and grief.
I am scattered today. Probably due to the meditation and everything that appears possible now. I am inspired and feel peace.
Who knew how powerful meditation could be? I should do it daily.....
Lately, it seems that I wake up at 6 am sharp. Every day. With or without wine involved, it seems. The sun shines and I am up. Startled, sometimes, sure. I wake up and contemplate my daily run.
Today, it was out of the question. I missed the window of opportunity.
I wanted to be active and so I did a strength training routine--push ups, sit ups, squats, lunges--intermixed with jump rope and jumping jacks. I considered doing sprints, too, but decided against it. Instead, I incorporated yoga and finished with meditation. Brilliant move. I felt at ease, peaceful, calm, centered and alive. Present, 100%, and available to whatever happens today. I am grateful that I opted to meditate instead of beating myself up for missing the run.
I reflected on my thoughts as I walked to the mailbox. I had read a post about communication and feeling more adept to communicate via text, e-mail or blogging, and unable to make sense in the speaking medium. I don't know if I struggle with that realm, the personal conversations department, as I have ample opportunities to strike up conversations with people. Yes, I do get caught up with texting, e-mailing, blogging, at times, but know that these mediums do not take place of an honest to goodness heartfelt face to face conversation.
This past week I have networked with old friends and put myself in situations to meet new people. I love it. I am so thankful for the people that I am meeting. I feel renewed/rejuvenated almost.
Or, I feel it is imperative to send cards, notes, letters to friends as a way to keep in touch, too. Last week, for instance, I had two opportunities to express sympathy. Not that I relish that occasion--I don't. Grief is horrible. I wouldn't wish this emotion on my worst enemy. It robs you of time, of life, of love and moving forward.
I found their individual addresses and expressed my condolensces. Each circumstance was unique and I know that my voice was different due to that and how I knew the person I sent the card too. I texted my one friend to tell her I was sorry and followed through with something I feel is more appropriate and meaningful.
I am surprised at the amount of people that post on facebook about grief. For me, it is entirely too personal to have out there. I do believe a phone call, card or visit, is the way to express sympathy. Yes, it takes effort and requires time. Posting on a wall seems impersonal. This is how I feel about it. But, I have experience with it and I remember how difficult it was to talk to people as time went on. This is one area that we do not discuss in our society it seems. I remember being given multiple casseroles to ease the pain. I wasn't hungry. Thankfully, my guests enjoyed the nourishment. Regardless, it felt that I was supposed to move on, immediately, from the grief the next day. I couldn't. I was overwhelmed with emotion and grief.
I am scattered today. Probably due to the meditation and everything that appears possible now. I am inspired and feel peace.
Who knew how powerful meditation could be? I should do it daily.....
Thursday, June 16, 2011
worth
The other day I got my hair cut. I had been to this girl, before, and knew that she was skilled. I had confidence in her abilities. I contacted her about arranging an appointment, got directions to her house and proceeded to enjoy the service.
All, in all, it took about forty minutes for the wash, cut, dry. She asked if I wanted to leave my hair curly. Never. I hate accentuating the natural curl factor. I prefer my hair straightened.
I couldn't remember exactly what she charged and when she said, $50, I was a little taken aback. Mostly, since she was working out of her house. I drove there and everything went directly to her. Plus, I tipped, too. Of course, I did. It is a service and I enjoyed it.
I called Jan and mentioned that I was uncertain about if I felt she was worth her rate. As I was trying to explain it, my phone broke up and the conversation ended. When we reconnected, I had already reconsidered my thoughts on the matter. This woman knew her worth and should charge $50. I am happy with the cut and in the future if I do not want to pay that amount, I have the option of finding a new stylist. That opens an entirely different set of problems and possibilities. I am finicky when it comes to my hair. I will stick with Jill and her rate. I trust her and that is what is important to me. And, again, she knows her worth.
Ironically, I was given the opportunity to assess my worth two days later. There was a wedding in Mexico and they needed a bartender. They contacted my friends who thought of me and gave me the woman's contact information. I e-mailed her after trying to figure out what I should charge for my services. I didn't know how long the event was which was an issue for me. Working five hours for x amount of dollars is different than working ten hours. I figured the reception would be around six hours. I factored in the set up/take down of event and the reception itself. I am confident that I would be able to provide an excellent experience with little assistance from the wedding party.
My friends said, just charge $100. That would barely cover the cost of gas. Of course the beach is enticing, but for once, logic prevailed. I am not going to put myself in a position to sell myself for free. Especially for people that I do not know or have any association with.
I sought out the opinions of others in the service industry that I value. They all suggested that my time was money and so that I should consider that before deciding on a rate.
I composed an e-mail detailing my experience with caterings and the service industry. I told her what my rate would be and that if it was agreeable to please let me know so that I could make arrangements to drive down. I mentioned attire and closed with looking forward to meeting her and being part of the celebration.
I waited to hear back. Eventually, I had errands to run and a yoga class. Later, my friend called me and said, yea, I don't think she is going to hire you. She called Derek and asked about someone that would be more affordable.
Keep in mind...the wedding is Saturday. She waited until Tuesday to figure out a bartender for the reception. She e-mailed my friends hoping they would lend her one of their employees for cheap. I don't know anyone that would sacrifice guaranteed money to work a wedding party or any event for that matter for less than what they typically earn on a Saturday night. She was hoping to not have to value this service in the financial sense.
Ultimately, you get what you pay for. I am disappointed that it didn't happen, but, realistically, this woman does not sound like someone that I would want to work for. She re-involved my friends after I had contacted her directly. They didn't want to be the go-between which is why they gave me her information. That, alone, is lame and unprofessional.
I value myself and my abilities. The lesson of the hair cut came back to slap me in the face, really. Of course, Jill has worth which is what I grasped onto myself. Unwilling to settle for the $100 to make someone get off easy. Yes, you do get what you pay for.....
All, in all, it took about forty minutes for the wash, cut, dry. She asked if I wanted to leave my hair curly. Never. I hate accentuating the natural curl factor. I prefer my hair straightened.
I couldn't remember exactly what she charged and when she said, $50, I was a little taken aback. Mostly, since she was working out of her house. I drove there and everything went directly to her. Plus, I tipped, too. Of course, I did. It is a service and I enjoyed it.
I called Jan and mentioned that I was uncertain about if I felt she was worth her rate. As I was trying to explain it, my phone broke up and the conversation ended. When we reconnected, I had already reconsidered my thoughts on the matter. This woman knew her worth and should charge $50. I am happy with the cut and in the future if I do not want to pay that amount, I have the option of finding a new stylist. That opens an entirely different set of problems and possibilities. I am finicky when it comes to my hair. I will stick with Jill and her rate. I trust her and that is what is important to me. And, again, she knows her worth.
Ironically, I was given the opportunity to assess my worth two days later. There was a wedding in Mexico and they needed a bartender. They contacted my friends who thought of me and gave me the woman's contact information. I e-mailed her after trying to figure out what I should charge for my services. I didn't know how long the event was which was an issue for me. Working five hours for x amount of dollars is different than working ten hours. I figured the reception would be around six hours. I factored in the set up/take down of event and the reception itself. I am confident that I would be able to provide an excellent experience with little assistance from the wedding party.
My friends said, just charge $100. That would barely cover the cost of gas. Of course the beach is enticing, but for once, logic prevailed. I am not going to put myself in a position to sell myself for free. Especially for people that I do not know or have any association with.
I sought out the opinions of others in the service industry that I value. They all suggested that my time was money and so that I should consider that before deciding on a rate.
I composed an e-mail detailing my experience with caterings and the service industry. I told her what my rate would be and that if it was agreeable to please let me know so that I could make arrangements to drive down. I mentioned attire and closed with looking forward to meeting her and being part of the celebration.
I waited to hear back. Eventually, I had errands to run and a yoga class. Later, my friend called me and said, yea, I don't think she is going to hire you. She called Derek and asked about someone that would be more affordable.
Keep in mind...the wedding is Saturday. She waited until Tuesday to figure out a bartender for the reception. She e-mailed my friends hoping they would lend her one of their employees for cheap. I don't know anyone that would sacrifice guaranteed money to work a wedding party or any event for that matter for less than what they typically earn on a Saturday night. She was hoping to not have to value this service in the financial sense.
Ultimately, you get what you pay for. I am disappointed that it didn't happen, but, realistically, this woman does not sound like someone that I would want to work for. She re-involved my friends after I had contacted her directly. They didn't want to be the go-between which is why they gave me her information. That, alone, is lame and unprofessional.
I value myself and my abilities. The lesson of the hair cut came back to slap me in the face, really. Of course, Jill has worth which is what I grasped onto myself. Unwilling to settle for the $100 to make someone get off easy. Yes, you do get what you pay for.....
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
volleyball
I meant to update this last night but got preoccupied with other things. I have some friends in town, others out of town and opportunities to network.
I accomplished the networking aspect by going to play volleyball. I always loved volleyball and at one point, was better than decent. I could set, overhand serve (with power) and spike. Because I am tall, naturally, people assumed that I would excel at volleyball. I did, for a while in high school. Then, I sustained an injury and became concerned with saving money for college. Sports would have to remain hobbies.
As I have aged, I have lost some of my natural abilities.
Serving. Definitely underhand it. Although, I feel I could work on that and eventually find a power serve. I want to. I think I could deliver a mean serve.
Setting. Still got it and enjoy setting people up.
Spike. Somehow I am now flat footed. I don't know. That is my excuse for my lack of vertical ability.
Last night, I went with a friend and met several new people. Initially it was her and ,I and ten guys. We warmed up, and immediately, I dove to dig a ball out and scraped both of my knees. Nice. Right away, I draw attention to myself with the blood.
We drew cards and she and I found ourselves on the same team. I thought it was interesting and felt bad for our third player, as did he. He had watched us as we warmed up. Like I had been doing. Of course, I was sizing up the abilities of other people. I could tell that this guy wished he had not come or had drawn a different suit.
Then a few more came and each girl that arrived drew a heart and was placed on our team. What are the odds of that?
Still, it was fun and I wasn't worst player out there. I remember thinking, well, just play and have fun. You are capable of returning serves and so that is something, right?
I look forward to attending more Tuesday night volleyball sessions. A lot of the people are involved in the food and beverage industry. I recognized two of the guys from one of my favorite wine bars and know that one of them was trying to place how he knew me or why I was familiar.
Afterwards, I drove home and got a call about heading back to Rocky Point. Who says no to this? I could enjoy more beach time and work on my tan. Plus, they needed some help with a wedding, thought of me and wanted to know if I would be available. Why not?
Well, I have friends in town. I could stay and entertain them. Or, reflect on my current path. Or, let's be honest, head south to Mexico. The minute that presented itself, I knew, I was heading there.
My friend, Jon, called me today and said--Come on, Harm, just drive down now. I have a few days off and we can hang out.
However, I have commitments and I will remain true to them. Mexico will be there. My friends are heading back to Colorado on Sunday. I want to see them.
I am finding that I need to leave my comfort zone and that is where I am truly meeting people and creating connections that will benefit me. Volleyball is an excellent way to meet people and work out. I missed it.
Next week, 8 pm will beckon.
Tonight, I am preparing enchiladas from a delightful red chile sauce that I made on Sunday. I think it will be delicious and the perfect way to celebrate a Wednesday. My friend brought home this gigantic bag of chiles and purposely put them in my line of sight, tempting me, to not cook on Sunday. He knew that I would be unable to resist the urge to make a red chile sauce. So right.
Anyways, we shall see how the sauce is in a few hours. Yoga first. Dinner later.
I am finally embracing ways to create space for me in the present.
I accomplished the networking aspect by going to play volleyball. I always loved volleyball and at one point, was better than decent. I could set, overhand serve (with power) and spike. Because I am tall, naturally, people assumed that I would excel at volleyball. I did, for a while in high school. Then, I sustained an injury and became concerned with saving money for college. Sports would have to remain hobbies.
As I have aged, I have lost some of my natural abilities.
Serving. Definitely underhand it. Although, I feel I could work on that and eventually find a power serve. I want to. I think I could deliver a mean serve.
Setting. Still got it and enjoy setting people up.
Spike. Somehow I am now flat footed. I don't know. That is my excuse for my lack of vertical ability.
Last night, I went with a friend and met several new people. Initially it was her and ,I and ten guys. We warmed up, and immediately, I dove to dig a ball out and scraped both of my knees. Nice. Right away, I draw attention to myself with the blood.
We drew cards and she and I found ourselves on the same team. I thought it was interesting and felt bad for our third player, as did he. He had watched us as we warmed up. Like I had been doing. Of course, I was sizing up the abilities of other people. I could tell that this guy wished he had not come or had drawn a different suit.
Then a few more came and each girl that arrived drew a heart and was placed on our team. What are the odds of that?
Still, it was fun and I wasn't worst player out there. I remember thinking, well, just play and have fun. You are capable of returning serves and so that is something, right?
I look forward to attending more Tuesday night volleyball sessions. A lot of the people are involved in the food and beverage industry. I recognized two of the guys from one of my favorite wine bars and know that one of them was trying to place how he knew me or why I was familiar.
Afterwards, I drove home and got a call about heading back to Rocky Point. Who says no to this? I could enjoy more beach time and work on my tan. Plus, they needed some help with a wedding, thought of me and wanted to know if I would be available. Why not?
Well, I have friends in town. I could stay and entertain them. Or, reflect on my current path. Or, let's be honest, head south to Mexico. The minute that presented itself, I knew, I was heading there.
My friend, Jon, called me today and said--Come on, Harm, just drive down now. I have a few days off and we can hang out.
However, I have commitments and I will remain true to them. Mexico will be there. My friends are heading back to Colorado on Sunday. I want to see them.
I am finding that I need to leave my comfort zone and that is where I am truly meeting people and creating connections that will benefit me. Volleyball is an excellent way to meet people and work out. I missed it.
Next week, 8 pm will beckon.
Tonight, I am preparing enchiladas from a delightful red chile sauce that I made on Sunday. I think it will be delicious and the perfect way to celebrate a Wednesday. My friend brought home this gigantic bag of chiles and purposely put them in my line of sight, tempting me, to not cook on Sunday. He knew that I would be unable to resist the urge to make a red chile sauce. So right.
Anyways, we shall see how the sauce is in a few hours. Yoga first. Dinner later.
I am finally embracing ways to create space for me in the present.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Maintenance
Making progress while dealing with a cold. Sounds great, right? I had a whole post about this and then my account malfunctioned. When I logged back in, I had two sentences to work with. Nice.
I am inspired to attempt to recreate my thoughts regarding the post, though.
Progress in terms of things that I want to accomplish. Body maintenance. I attended a work shop last Saturday about life balance and one of the components regarded body maintenance. I sat there and watched as people absorbed the information. Most of them seemed intrigued by this thought of body maintenance.
This is an area that I do not neglect in my life. No, I have always been an avid supporter of massage, yoga, pilates, acupuncture, etc. Possibly, I should pursue pilates again. Core strength, is essential, I am finding to be preventitive in health purposes. Yoga occupies my time, somewhat. I have found a studio and instructor that I enjoy. Last week, we practiced yoga nidra which was unique. Controlled relaxation, semi-meditative state, and little physical effort involved. I liked it, but prefer the physicality of yoga. I e-mailed the instructor that I would be interested in trying the nidra again if half the class would be devoted to the physical practice.
Yes, I feel it is imperative to tune up your body like you do your car. Maintenance is required for your car and most people, begrudgingly, will pay for oil changes. I follow the requirements for my car. Veronica is a great vehicle. I take care of her because I love my car. As such, I have always taken care of myself, too. I was introduced to massage in 98. One of my friends had a girl that he went to every two weeks while he lived in Tempe. When I moved into his rental, I found Laura's business card and decided to check out massage. Since then I have had many massages and always benefitted greatly from them. Stress release, healing injuries, feeling good about the present moment even. It is a wonderful service, I think.
Last week, I located a studio and scheduled a massage. I had arranged a beach massage in Rocky Point, but flaked on the appointment. I thought about the location and how exposed I would be receiving body work. The guy is honest and I am not concerned about his integrity. It's everyone else's integrity, or lack of, that would be sitting on the beach watching the massage.
I had massage on my brain and I finally scheduled one. The girl I saw was kind and had good pressure. I told her that I wanted to relax and if she found areas of concern to work them out. Her technique was more based in deep tissue. That day, I wanted more fluid movements and not so much emphasis on deep tissue. I will return to the studio and ask for Jen, again. She seemed genuinely interested in my well-being.
In other areas of maintenance, I finally, got a hair cut. It's only been a year. Yikes! Hello, split ends. I love braiding my hair but even that was becoming chore-like as I attempted to conceal my unruly hair. Now, I feel free and liberated. Why does this service (hair cut) enable such a fantastic feeling? Seriously. How many times have you heard someone say--I wanted change and so I cut my hair. Or I colored my hair and now I feel like a new person.
I don't know about new person, but I do feel pretty darn great. Lots of possibility, positivity and more progress in my life.
Yes, maintenance is essential and desireable in my life. I should seek out pilates and/or more yoga. It would be ideal.
I am inspired to attempt to recreate my thoughts regarding the post, though.
Progress in terms of things that I want to accomplish. Body maintenance. I attended a work shop last Saturday about life balance and one of the components regarded body maintenance. I sat there and watched as people absorbed the information. Most of them seemed intrigued by this thought of body maintenance.
This is an area that I do not neglect in my life. No, I have always been an avid supporter of massage, yoga, pilates, acupuncture, etc. Possibly, I should pursue pilates again. Core strength, is essential, I am finding to be preventitive in health purposes. Yoga occupies my time, somewhat. I have found a studio and instructor that I enjoy. Last week, we practiced yoga nidra which was unique. Controlled relaxation, semi-meditative state, and little physical effort involved. I liked it, but prefer the physicality of yoga. I e-mailed the instructor that I would be interested in trying the nidra again if half the class would be devoted to the physical practice.
Yes, I feel it is imperative to tune up your body like you do your car. Maintenance is required for your car and most people, begrudgingly, will pay for oil changes. I follow the requirements for my car. Veronica is a great vehicle. I take care of her because I love my car. As such, I have always taken care of myself, too. I was introduced to massage in 98. One of my friends had a girl that he went to every two weeks while he lived in Tempe. When I moved into his rental, I found Laura's business card and decided to check out massage. Since then I have had many massages and always benefitted greatly from them. Stress release, healing injuries, feeling good about the present moment even. It is a wonderful service, I think.
Last week, I located a studio and scheduled a massage. I had arranged a beach massage in Rocky Point, but flaked on the appointment. I thought about the location and how exposed I would be receiving body work. The guy is honest and I am not concerned about his integrity. It's everyone else's integrity, or lack of, that would be sitting on the beach watching the massage.
I had massage on my brain and I finally scheduled one. The girl I saw was kind and had good pressure. I told her that I wanted to relax and if she found areas of concern to work them out. Her technique was more based in deep tissue. That day, I wanted more fluid movements and not so much emphasis on deep tissue. I will return to the studio and ask for Jen, again. She seemed genuinely interested in my well-being.
In other areas of maintenance, I finally, got a hair cut. It's only been a year. Yikes! Hello, split ends. I love braiding my hair but even that was becoming chore-like as I attempted to conceal my unruly hair. Now, I feel free and liberated. Why does this service (hair cut) enable such a fantastic feeling? Seriously. How many times have you heard someone say--I wanted change and so I cut my hair. Or I colored my hair and now I feel like a new person.
I don't know about new person, but I do feel pretty darn great. Lots of possibility, positivity and more progress in my life.
Yes, maintenance is essential and desireable in my life. I should seek out pilates and/or more yoga. It would be ideal.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
saturday night's meal
Roasted peppers=delicious!
I used red and green peppers. In the future, I think I would use an array of colors--orange and yellows, too. And, possibly, allow them to marinate overnight. The hour was lovely, but an entire day would be delightful. I can imagine how tasty they would be if able to marinate an entire 24 hours.
I roasted the peppers for an hour. Afterwards, they chilled with garlic, salt and red wine vinegar. While they were marinating, I made a salad and toasted bread. We were going to enjoy a simple summer meal without much effort on my part. I called it my idea of antipasta. We had fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers with capers, crostini and salad. Lovely.
Successful, too. I always have some anxiety when preparing food for these friends. They enjoy what they like and what they know. Some of my ideas--adding blueberries to salads--seem foreign to them and unlikely. Thankfully, they do try my creations even if there is a degree of hesitation.
Last night, they were, both, pleasantly surprised at how wonderful the roasted peppers were. I believe this will be a keeper. Perhaps even trying again next month. They were that good.
Although instead of drinking pinot noir, I will find a suitable sauvignon blanc or pinot gris. I was trying to avoid partaking in wine last night but opted to celebrate Shari's birthday in spirit. Wine became part of the meal. I used what was available. We seem to have ample pinot noir in stock. I am a fan of some but prefer bolder reds. I need to stock up so that I am happy with the selection.
Tonight, I think we are grilling. Sundays seem to inspire this activity. There is something about enjoying the outdoor patio and enjoying a few beverages while grilling. Well, I am out for that activity since my cold seems to linger. I am having difficulty kicking it. I inhaled olive of oregano, garlic cloves and tablets and orange juice. During the day I feel better. I had some idea that drinking wine would not be helpful to ridding myself of the cold. But, it was celebration. Wine seemed appropriate.
This morning illustrated my lack of judgment. Crusted eyes, itchy throat and phlegm. Yuck! Today I am going to hold firm with my desire to kick the cold and not enjoy a glass of wine with the meal.
I am thinking eggplant. I saw some yesterday while shopping for peppers. They were beautiful and I should have purchased them yesterday. Stunning color and healthy looking. Yes, eggplant is in the future.
I do enjoy incorporating more items into my cooking repetoire. Thankful for today and grateful for friends.
I used red and green peppers. In the future, I think I would use an array of colors--orange and yellows, too. And, possibly, allow them to marinate overnight. The hour was lovely, but an entire day would be delightful. I can imagine how tasty they would be if able to marinate an entire 24 hours.
I roasted the peppers for an hour. Afterwards, they chilled with garlic, salt and red wine vinegar. While they were marinating, I made a salad and toasted bread. We were going to enjoy a simple summer meal without much effort on my part. I called it my idea of antipasta. We had fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers with capers, crostini and salad. Lovely.
Successful, too. I always have some anxiety when preparing food for these friends. They enjoy what they like and what they know. Some of my ideas--adding blueberries to salads--seem foreign to them and unlikely. Thankfully, they do try my creations even if there is a degree of hesitation.
Last night, they were, both, pleasantly surprised at how wonderful the roasted peppers were. I believe this will be a keeper. Perhaps even trying again next month. They were that good.
Although instead of drinking pinot noir, I will find a suitable sauvignon blanc or pinot gris. I was trying to avoid partaking in wine last night but opted to celebrate Shari's birthday in spirit. Wine became part of the meal. I used what was available. We seem to have ample pinot noir in stock. I am a fan of some but prefer bolder reds. I need to stock up so that I am happy with the selection.
Tonight, I think we are grilling. Sundays seem to inspire this activity. There is something about enjoying the outdoor patio and enjoying a few beverages while grilling. Well, I am out for that activity since my cold seems to linger. I am having difficulty kicking it. I inhaled olive of oregano, garlic cloves and tablets and orange juice. During the day I feel better. I had some idea that drinking wine would not be helpful to ridding myself of the cold. But, it was celebration. Wine seemed appropriate.
This morning illustrated my lack of judgment. Crusted eyes, itchy throat and phlegm. Yuck! Today I am going to hold firm with my desire to kick the cold and not enjoy a glass of wine with the meal.
I am thinking eggplant. I saw some yesterday while shopping for peppers. They were beautiful and I should have purchased them yesterday. Stunning color and healthy looking. Yes, eggplant is in the future.
I do enjoy incorporating more items into my cooking repetoire. Thankful for today and grateful for friends.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
June 11
Couple of things. First, I cannot believe that 2011 is half over. Where did the time go? Seriously, it's June. What happened to spring? I will roll with it and embrace the summer. Still, this year has flown by.
Happy birthday to two special ladies--Joan and Shari. Each have impacted my life in different ways. Joan for welcoming me into her family in such a loving way. I look forward to Thanksgiving just to spend time with her and Dr. Bryn's family. The oyster stuffing is awesome, too. I have been fortunate to spend several holidays with their family and enjoy the food, conversation and love.
Shari is Brian's mom. She will forever be part of my life and a travel companion, I am finding. We have explored Costa Rica, San Francisco, Seattle, Santa Fe and Belize. In 2013, we hope to go to Bali to have a spiritual journey to celebrate Brian's life. Plus, today, Shari is treating her friends and family to pots du creme and beer. Stellar way to celebrate and enjoy life. I considered heading to the midwest, was enticed by a beach adventure and opted to stat put and attend a workshop regarding balance. I have been trying to embrace a more spiritual type of life as of late. I suppose I could use some balance or reinvention even. Who doesn't have room to improve their lives?
I believe in like attracting like and feel this is a natural part of my current path. I met a lovely group of people and the main woman reminded me of my friend, Melody. Similar positive outlook on life and super enthusiastic about sharing her zest for life. Yes, this woman reminds me of Melody. Which inspires me to consider a trip to one of my favorites cities. Surely there are more restaurants to check out or I could surround myself with what is comfort to me. Someday, soon, I feel.
Tonight, I will make dinner, drink a glass of wine and toast these two wonderful women. Happy Birthday, Joan and Shari.
Dinner tonight is borrowed from Motorino via Smitten Kitchen. I enjoy this blog and have yet to be disappointed by any of their recipes. And, I went to Motorino with Manraj last April which was excellent in its own right. When I go back to the Big Apple, I am definitely returning to sample the fare.
Happy Saturday and Enjoy!
Happy birthday to two special ladies--Joan and Shari. Each have impacted my life in different ways. Joan for welcoming me into her family in such a loving way. I look forward to Thanksgiving just to spend time with her and Dr. Bryn's family. The oyster stuffing is awesome, too. I have been fortunate to spend several holidays with their family and enjoy the food, conversation and love.
Shari is Brian's mom. She will forever be part of my life and a travel companion, I am finding. We have explored Costa Rica, San Francisco, Seattle, Santa Fe and Belize. In 2013, we hope to go to Bali to have a spiritual journey to celebrate Brian's life. Plus, today, Shari is treating her friends and family to pots du creme and beer. Stellar way to celebrate and enjoy life. I considered heading to the midwest, was enticed by a beach adventure and opted to stat put and attend a workshop regarding balance. I have been trying to embrace a more spiritual type of life as of late. I suppose I could use some balance or reinvention even. Who doesn't have room to improve their lives?
I believe in like attracting like and feel this is a natural part of my current path. I met a lovely group of people and the main woman reminded me of my friend, Melody. Similar positive outlook on life and super enthusiastic about sharing her zest for life. Yes, this woman reminds me of Melody. Which inspires me to consider a trip to one of my favorites cities. Surely there are more restaurants to check out or I could surround myself with what is comfort to me. Someday, soon, I feel.
Tonight, I will make dinner, drink a glass of wine and toast these two wonderful women. Happy Birthday, Joan and Shari.
Dinner tonight is borrowed from Motorino via Smitten Kitchen. I enjoy this blog and have yet to be disappointed by any of their recipes. And, I went to Motorino with Manraj last April which was excellent in its own right. When I go back to the Big Apple, I am definitely returning to sample the fare.
Happy Saturday and Enjoy!
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