Texas Oh Texas

I *think* I've mentioned that I'm packing up DH, Little Mister and Baby Deux and heading to the promised land (aka Texas) for the foreseeable future ~ which, by the way means 6 days. 


The reason for this adventure (our first time flying with BOTH boys) is for the wedding of a great family friend. The wedding itself is being held in a cute little country town but we'll be making several stops along the way, as we always do when visiting Texas. 


Whenever we go "home" I like to jam pack every moment with things I love to do, see and eat! We're starting in Houston at my Darling In-laws' home and because they are cocktailing in Cabo this week we'll have the whole house and pool to our selves for our own playtime and cocktailing. Then off to College Station to see Mamere's new country home as we make our way to the wedding. 

Oh did I mention we are leaving the babies?! Yep. We'll be spending two days in the country with out the kids. I'm equal parts irrationally excited and freakishly terrified. I mean I know that we need a weekend away but ummm, I also really don't want to leave the kids. sigh.. mommy guilt never goes away.


And since we'll be with in an hour or two of Austin DH has suggested on numerous occasions that we might consider making a stop for brunch at our all time favorite Tex- Mex restaurant. Nothing is for sure but it would be nice to sneak in for a morning margarita and the best enchiladas in the world. 


So in honor of this trip I thought I'd share my list of "Places to Go."


**Super Important Disclaimer: This is by no means a list of "Best of Texas" places. Although that's a great idea for a post for another day. This is just my list of favs for this trip!!! (IF Mr. G is reading this he's surely shaking his head. He always said I had a hard time with declarative statements.)**


Houston~ Avalon Stationary
I've been ordering my personal stationary from here for as long as I can remember. They couldn't be cuter or sweeter! And they have a fabulous stock of stationary and homewares. I'll also be picking up a baby book for Baby Deux. We purchased Little Mister's baby book here and I just love it!

Luby's
To be fair there are hundreds of Luby's around the state but since we'll have the most time while in Houston this is on the top of my list. If you grew up in Texas you know and love this cafeteria chain. Hellooo buttery rolls, fried fish and green beens swimming in butter oh how I've missed you. 


Houston Zoo
This is new to me but I'm seriously excited to visit! We're meeting one of my best friends and her daughter for some animal fun and apparently the best sliders in town. Yummy!


Austin ~ The big Maybe

IF we get the chance to head over to Austin (yes, my home town) there are soooo many things I want to do. However, we'll likely only be able to stop at Maudie's. This is with out a doubt the Best Ever Tex-Mex restaurant. I'm begging you to try it if you ever find yourself in Austin. Hands Down~ Best Margaritas, Best chips & queso & Best enchiladas.


And although the Austin leg of our trip is iffy at best there is a minute possibility we'll stay over night. If that happens I have to throw out two of my other favorites!

Mansion at Judges Hill
This is my favorite hotel to stay at when we visit for so many reasons. First it's adorable, quaint, historic and the staff is so friendly! Secondly the location (at MLK & Guadalupe) can not be beat! I'm all twitchy waiting to hear if I should call to make the reservation. Oh and their room rate is VERY reasonable, which is an added bonus.


The Menagerie

You've heard me wax poetical about this most fabulous shop too many times to count. But I do try to pop in and say hello to owner Vickie whenever I can. And if I just happen to find something (or 20 somethings) that I can't live with out well that's okay too. 

And, although we're a little late for the peak of bluebonnet season, I'm hoping to see a few of these iconic State flowers along the way. 


So there you have it ~ my week's plan! As you can see the Ouiser brood and I will be busy for the next week so I'm not sure when/if I'll have time to update. But I'll have my laptop and camera with me so perhaps I'll do a followup post complete with pics next week. 


Cheers, 
Ouiser


PS Today, I'm making risotto balls for this month's Girls Supper. If they turn out perhaps I'll share the recipe tommorrow. 

Obligatory Twilight Eclipse Post

Yep, this is exactly what it looks like... A post about the newly released trailer for Eclipse.

If you don't know what Eclipse is or why I'm posting the trailer you should go ahead and outclick cause this is not the post (or the blog) for you.

For the rest of you twi-rob-cullen-vampire-sessed fans you already know that it aired on Friday's Oprah. And because Oprah is on in the morning in Chicago, more than a few "versions" hit the Internet about 10 seconds later. And by "versions" I mean people actually videotapping their television screens and then uploaded to Youtube. I actually watched one of these around 9:05 am and it was hilarious ~ bad audio and I think I could kinda see the person's living room reflected in the screen. 

With in moments of Summit releasing the official trailer the criticisms began. Bad makeup ~ worst wigs ~ and an engagement ring from hell are just a few things I heard. But there was some good as well... Helloooo Team Riley! Thanks for joining the party, you sir are a cutie pie. And of course I saw more than a few tweets about a certain vampire's umm "guns"? Who knew you were so buff Dr. Cullen?

So I've got two little gems *wink wink* for you today. The first is the official trailer courtesy of Summit Entertainment. 

Exciting right!? I can't wait to see it in the theaters. Fingers crossed it'll be playing in Door County, where I'll be on June 30th while vacationing with DH and his entire family. Thank the good Lord of all things Twilight, my adorable wish-I-was-that-cute-in-highschool niece and fellow twi-fan will be with me. Although I am pretty sure I'll be the one squealing like a teen-aged girl and she'll be playing it much cooler. 

And because I can't help being a little snarky, here is the engagement ring. Now, to be fair I didn't care for the ring as described by Stephenie Meyer in the book either but this is just plane ugly. And while I'm on the subject, I also take issue with the fact that it is more of a cocktail ring than engagement ring! But I'll be honest if Mr. Hottie Darcy-esque vampire ask me to marry him with a ring made out of twine I'd likely say ... Yes, please! How about here and now??

THE Ring....

Really? Reeeeaaalllly? It looks like something you'd find in a box of cracker jack!

I think this is a much better ring for the (ridiculously marriage phobic) little Mrs.

Note: This ring can be found at my all time favorite shop (and where DH's and my wedding rings came from) The Menagerie in Austin Texas. www.themenagerie.com 

Cheers & Jeers, 

Ouiser

Happy Anniversary Mr. Ouiser!

Today is the sixth anniversary of Mr. Ouiser and my wedding. Ahhh, young love. And hey you single ladies here's a tip to help the mister remember your anniversary. Get married on NFL Draft weekend! tee hee hee

Of course I had no idea that it was the same weekend, as you well know I'm a college football kinda gal.  And to DH's credit he didn't mention it but apparently this was the second most popular discussion amongst the boys at our wedding.

What was the first you ask? No it wasn't my beautiful gown or the bridesmaid's (you-can-totes-wear-it-again) dresses. It was the view from the men's urinals. Stop laughing, I'm serious!

Now I can't say for certain as I've never been in a boy's bathroom but the club our reception was held at is on the top floor of a building and "apparently" there is a long narrow window at eye level and runs along the wall behind the urinals which overlooks downtown Austin. Snicker snicker, clearly a man designed this building but what a sense of humor!!

Here we are six years later, a dozen or more trips across the country and the world, three moves, two children and countless bottles of wine later I'm more in love with Mr. Ouiser than I was when I said "I will".

Thanks for taking me on the best journey of my life.

All My Love,
Mrs. Ouiser

P.S. The above painting is Renoir's Dance in the City. I wanted to add a pic from our wedding but a combination of technical failure and a web-shy DH has thwarted my efforts.

Two Friday Favorites ~ Jewelry & Wine

Happy Friday Yall!!

Both kiddles are taking a brief morning nap, so I thought I'd get out a quick post for today....

I want to share with you things I'm head over heels in love with right now (aside from said kiddles and DH, natch).

First is this fabulous, gorgeous one of a kind necklace. You all know I'm a firm believer in the power of lipgloss and a stylin necklace. And by now you should know all about my obsession with Esther Designs. My dear friend Tanis makes the most beautiful and timeless jewelry!!!

Today I'm wearing this necklace with a navy sailor inspired Lilly tee and capris. Feeling very naughty, err I mean nautical. Yes, yes that's what I meant!

Don't you love it!? Please go take a peek at her site (click HERE) and then come back and let me know which is your favorite! Oh and you can click HERE for her latest creations that are not yet up on the Etsy site.

And I'd be remiss for not thanking a certain reader/friend/mom-spiration Ms. Marilyn. A little birdy told me you were the first to request this particular necklace and were gracious enough to let me have it anyway. As always I love and adore you!

If you know me at all you know how I love my wine! And you also know how much I love my little neighborhood wine shop, Planet Wine Shop in Del Ray. If you find yourself in this neck of the woods, please please stop by!! They've got such a great collection. I usually get our weekly stash from their "Under $15" section but I also wander the racks and pick up a special bottle or two every now and again. Today's wine is from the former, and is absolutely delicious!

Anton Bauer is an Austrian vinyard that produces a variety of wines. Although I've only tried two, Gmork and the Rosenberg I would happily try their entire line!

I'm a very seasonal person and right now as we make our way from spring to summer I'm all about the white wines. I'm completely smitten with their Rosenberg wine. Its light enough to sip alone but complex enough that it doesn't get overwhelmed if pairing with a meal.

As I'm NOT a professional or even really a sophisticated wine connoisseur I'll avoid embarassing myself by describing it for you. Instead here is a bit directly from the Anton Bauer website. Oh and click HERE to browse their site for yourself....

Grüner Veltliner 2008, Rosenberg

Beaming yellow with straw-gold reflexes: in the nose fine apple tones. Pear, quince, aroma of dried fruits with an exotic hint, exhibits pleasant spice; on the palate nutty-spicy-peppery, piquant fruit acid, juicy and stimulating; elegant, lively finish.

Cheers to Fridays, Beautiful Jewelry and Fabulous Wine!!!

xoxo, 
Ouiser

Recipe of the Week ~ Potato Gnocchi with Duck Ragu

So I was chatting recently with one of my twi-online-fanfic-lady friends, lets call her "Miss Betty"


DH: **cue eye roll (again) and shakes head** 
Ouiser: You know mamere says your eyes can get stuck like that. ugh, please ignore him...


So my "friend" Miss Betty shared a fabulous recipe with me for Pasta with Fast Sausage Ragu. It sounds DELISH and I can't wait to make it myself, one of these days very soon! Thanks doll, not only are you one of the most fantastic writers I know, you also keep me busy in the kitchen. Many hugs and kisses! 


Well, her email got me thinking about Valentines Day 2008, when DH made an unbelievable dinner ~ Potato Gnocchi with Duck Ragu. The rich and intense flavor of the ragu is out of this world. And it just doesn't get any better than homemade fluffy melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi. 

I thought I'd share the recipe with you today. It comes from Chef Fabio Trabocchi's cookbook, Cucina of Le Marche. Chef Trabocchi grew up in the Le Marche region of Italy and was the Executive chef at Maestro in the Ritz Carlton in McLean. (That's just outside of DC for you out-of-towners.) DH took me there for an amazing birthday dinner in '06. 


*note: Rumor has it he may be returning to DC! My fingers are crossed but you can click here to read the thread or just go to www.donrockwell.com.


Click here to purchase this incredible cookbook. There are a number of amazing dishes I've made and even more that I still need to. 



Anywho, this is a fabulous, rich, decadent and somewhat complex recipe but well worth the effort!!! I suggest making it during the weekend or for a special occasion. And if you do make it please be sure and let me know. You know I LOVE hearing from you! Actually, lets make things interesting. If you leave a comment I'll send you Miss Betty's recipe as well. See it's a two-fer!! How can you say no to that???


**cracks fingers** okay, here goes peeps, this is going to be long. 


Potato Gnocchi with Duck Ragu
Serves 6

Gnocchi
2 1/4 lbs  Russet potaotes, scrubbed clean
3/4 C        All purpose flour
1/4 C         Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated
1/4 tsp      Nutmeg, grated
1 tsp          Kosher salt
3 large      Egg yolks


Duck Ragu
1/2 C         Porcini mushrooms, dried
1                 4 1/2 lbs Duck, cut into 12 pieces: thighs, drumsticks, wings, breasts (each cut into 3 pieces) *don't be afraid to ask your butcher to do this for you!
3 TBS        Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 lbs      Pancetta, 1/4 inch dice
3/4 C         of each: Carrots and Onions, diced
1/2 C          Celery, diced
4 C             Dry red wine, such as Montepulciano or Zinfandel
2 1/4 C      Basic Tomato Sauce
1 Sprig       of each: Rosemary, Thyme, Sage, Bay leave
3                 Whole Cloves
Kosher Salt & Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 C          Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated


For the Gnocchi:
Cook potatoes in simmering water for 45 mins or until they are soft. Drain, let cool then peel potatoes and run through a rice mill or potato ricer and spread evenly on counter (or pastry board). Sprinkle with flour, Parmigiano, nutmeg & salt. Add the egg yolks in the center and mix with your hands.  Knead mixture until dough forms. Do NOT overwork the dough! Cover with damp kitchen towel and let rest for 30 mins.

Dust baking sheet and work station with flour. Pull off small section of dough and roll in the palm of your hand until forming a long narrow cylinder about 3/4 in. in diameter. Cut dough into 1/2 in. pieces. Gently push down with the back of a fork to mark with ridges. Once all the gnocchi is made, cover with kitchen towel and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. 


For the Duck Ragu: 
Soak dried porcinis in a small bowl with warm water for 20 mins. Remove mushrooms, squeeze dry and chop.


Season the duck with salt & pepper. Then working in small batches sear pieces on all sides over medium-high heat and 2 TBS olive oil. Set aside. Drain any excess fat and return pan to heat, add 1 TBS olive oil and pancetta. Cook till crisp, then add carrots, onion and celery and cook till soft and translucent. Add wine and raise hit to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 mins or till liquid has reduced by two-thirds. Stir in porcini and tomato sauce into the pancetta mixture. Add duck, nestling it into the sauce. 


Make a bouquet garni by tying the rosemary, sage, thyme and bay leaf together with kitchen twine. Tie the cloves in a small piece of cheesecloth. Add both to sauce. Cover pan and let simmer over low heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. When the duck is falling off the bone remove pieces from the sauce. Discard the bouquet garni & cloves. Once cool to the touch, remove the duck skin and pull meat off the bone and return to sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary. 


When ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add gnocchi to the water. When they float to the surface, taste one to see if cooked through. Remove cooked gnocchi with a slotted spoon and gently fold into the duck ragu sauce. Again adjust season as needed. 


Spoon the gnocchi and ragu into warm bowls and top with grated Parmigiano. 


Happy Cooking! I'm drooling from just typing this recipe! I am definitely making this soon!

Cheers, 
Ouiser

Art, Love & the Influence of Wine

It is not time or opportunity that is to determine intimacy;-- it is disposition alone. Seven years would be insufficient to make some people acquainted with each other, and seven days are more than enough for others. 

~ Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility

                                           *********************


During last weekend's wine fueled dinner party I was discussing how art evokes emotion and immediately this photograph came to mind. It is an Ansel Adams photo take in 1937 during a several week tour he took with Geogia O'Keefe and others in Ghost Range, New Mexico. The gentleman in the photo with O'Keefe is Orville Cox, the tour's wrangler. 


At one point during dinner I actually went digging in one of our closets to find the framed poster of this photo I used to have hanging in my fluffy romantic single girl's apartment to illustrate my point. I never found it but have been thinking about it since then. 


I don't want to start any rumors, Ms. O'Keefe was not in love with Mr. Cox. Nevertheless this always makes me feel as if I'm witnessing the intimate moments of first love. The feeling of sheer excitement and terror to simply be in that person's presence. The inability not to smile and the desire to wrap oneself in the newness of those emotions. And on his part, I see the shyness and nervousness to look into the eyes of such intense emotion. 


Le Sigh, 
Ouiser

Moms Who Are WAY Funnier Than Me

I recently stumbled upon two new blogs that I've fallen for! Seriously like head over heals. And to be fair, I didn't exactly stumble upon them myself I was led there by one of my favorite Twi-Mom tweeters, Mrs. TippL. Yes, you read that right, we are twitter friends and fellow Twilight junkies. **cue DH eye-roll**

If you're on twitter you should follow Ms. Tippy as well as the two brilliant bloggers I'm about to tell you about. You can click on their twitter names to follow them... @TippyL @onefabulousmom and @ipickpretty. 

As a stay at home mom, there are a million little things that happen every day that make me want to shed tears. Sometimes from happiness, sometimes from laughter and yes, sometimes from anger and frustration. 

Quick sidebar: That reminds me of the very first time I cried in front of DH. We were dating and I'd gotten in a tiff with one of my girlfriends. I actually told him "This is weird, cause I hardly ever cry." He's been teasing me ever since then. So, let me clarify ~  I. Am. A. Crier.

Well these two ladies are fabulous in every sense of the word! They are stylish, witty, creative, talented, fashionable and make me smile every time I open up their sites. 

Mrs. One Fabulous Mom lives in LA and in addition to recent celebrity sightings, divine dinners and parties has recently celebrated a milestone birthday. So if, err I mean when you go visit, please wish her a happy birthday!! And today's post is a hoot! Do you ever feel like like Captain Von Trapp? I know I do!

Her site is http://www.onefabulousmom.blogspot.com

Mrs. I Pick Pretty is a California transplant to my native Austin, Texas. Hey yall, give her a big wave and welcome!!! Her latest post about all the inappropriate and tacky things some people can't seem to help doing to pregnant woman almost made me tinkle I was laughing so hard. And I totally agree with the premise that while pregnant or toddling around with your little ones in tow, no mommy should be asked to add the liquor store to her list of to dos. It's just plain awkward for everyone! 

Her site is http://www.ipickpretty.com

Hope you enjoy these as much as I have ~ Happy Browsing!!

Cheers, 

Ouiser 

A Sad Farwell to a Legend ~ Dixie Carter

I have been meaning to do a post about my love (aka obsession) with Designing Women, especially since I recently discovered that the first three seasons are available on DVD, with seasons four and five on their way. Who knew? I'd been holding on to my "best of" DVD for years thinking that was the only one available.

However, I never wrote that post and now I'm sad to be writing this one. The recent passing of Dixie Carter left me remembering just how much I adored Designing Women and the women (and men) behind the characters. Growing up in the South, these character represented stereotypes for sure but as we all know there are hints of truth in every stereotype.

Each of the women in this series brought a sense of compassion and honesty to their characters. It was a uniquely special group that ably tackled the most controversial topics of the day just as easily as they did the lighthearted comedic ones. From AIDS to malpractice to pornography to women in the priesthood theses ladies handled themselves and the issues with grace, sincerity, humor and in Julia's case a whole lotta Sugarbaker fire!

If you didn't already know both Ms. Dixie and Ms. Delta's real life husbands played their on screen love interest (or ex-husband and occasional love interest) - Reese Watson and Dash Goff. One of my favorite stories was shared by co-creater Linda Bloodworth-Thomason. When discussing with Hal who he thought should play Dixie's on screen love interest he expressed a strong dislike of any male. So Ms. Linda decided to cast Hal instead.

I could go on and on about this show and for those that know me you've likely heard me ramble on aimlessly quoting my favorite episodes. You in particular Mr. G (and you'd quote them right along with me!). Instead here is my "Best Of" List.... okay so I started with my top 10 but this post is already rediculously long so here is my top five instead.


5. Bernice's Sanity Hearing
As a Southern woman myself I couldn't love this clip more. Of course this episode also features Mary Jo lying on the ground in the judges chambers illustrating to a very pregnant Charlene how to put on her panties without bending over. I snort just thinking about how funny it is.  Oh and just so you know, I've got crazies on both sides as well.




4. The Beauty Contest
This episode is quintessential Julia... defending those she loves eloquently and with dramatic flare.




3. How Great Thou Art
I love this episode for so many reasons. For starters hearing Bernice go toe to toe with Charlene's minister about whether or not women should be allowed to be ministers is a riot. But seeing the conviction that Charlene must muster to stand up for her own beliefs is truly moving. And not just because my own mother (yes mamere) is a priest but because don't ya think we all deserve to grow up believing we can do anything we set our hearts and minds on? I do.  Plus, Julia sings an incredible version of How Great Thou Art and even hits the dreaded high note perfectly.

2. Killing All The Right People
This makes the list not only for raising the issue of AIDS at time when hardly anyone was talking about it but because Julia delivers one of my all time favorite lines. "If God was giving out sexually transmitted diseases for sinning you'd be at the free clinic all the time. And so would the rest of us." Amen Sister!



1. Dash Goff, The Writer
With out a doubt this is my all time favorite. Not only does Gerald McRaney's southern accent lull me into a dream like state but he also plays a romantic etheral writer from another era. Hellooooooo?? Does it get any better? At the very end he sends the ladies the note below. We are treated with a fantastic snapshot of his descriptions that is forever burned in my memory.

"Yesterday, in my mind's eye, I saw four women standing on a verandah in white gauzy dresses and straw colored hats. They were having a conversation, and it was hot --- their hankies tucked in cleavages where eternal trickles of perspiration run from the female breast bone to exotic vacation spots that Southern men often dream about. They were sweet smelling, coy, cunning, voluptuous, voracious, delicious, pernicious, vexing and sexing --- these earth sister rebel mothers, these arousers and carousers. And I was filled with a longing to join them. But like a whim of Scarlett's, they turned suddenly and went inside, shutting me out with the bolt of a latch. And I was left only to pick up an abandoned handkerchief and savor the perfumed shadows of these women. These Southern women. This Suzanne, this Julia, this Mary-Jo and Charlene. Thanks for the comfort. " 
---Dash Goff, the Writer

Cheers, to a wonderful elegant honest Southern lady who reminds us that the purpose of etiquette is to make those around you more at ease and not to be used as a tool to exclude or intimidate. (Yes, if that sounded familiar it's from "The Engagement" another fabulous episode from this classic series.)

xoxo,
Ouiser

Hello Anybody Out There?

**clears throat and looks around nervously**

Hi... umm, hello? 

So yeah it's been a while sorry about that. In fact Le Coeur is curled up on her fluffy chaise with her back to me ignoring my pleas. I hope the salted chocolate caramels and pol roger I sent her way make a dent. 

While I'm finishing up a "real" post for today, here is a brief list of thing that happened while I was away.

1. Baby Deaux got his ticket to the promise land and didn't poop on the Bishop or anything! 

2. We finally got a new sofa *yay* although I'm still waiting on the upholstered chairs I ordered 6 weeks ago from Ballards. Cute right?

3. I finally came up with a good blog nickname for our older son. Little Mister. I realized yesterday I call him that all the time so now it's Little Mister and Baby Deux. 

4. Gained 5 pounds from all the delicious leftovers. Sigh. Re-starting the only diet that's ever worked for me today.... Coffee + Protein + Twilight Books = Rapid Weight Loss. 

I think that's about it....

Cheers, 

Ouiser 

Recipe of the Week ~ Ordering In

Afternoon all.. so this weekend we are finally having baby deux baptized and I'm not going to lie I'm more than a little relieved. I mean don't get me wrong I don't subscribe to the whole "going to hell" thing but I'd be lying if I said I won't be a happier mother once the kid's been splashed, oiled and hands have been layed upon him.

Anyway, the point being is that we've got oodles of family coming to town which means that I'll be playing hostess and probably won't have time to blog.

***********************************************
LeCoeur: *pops head up* Umm, hello, we're you going to say something to me about this sudden departure?!

Ouiser: Oh hey, yeah totally.

Le Coeur: **sniff sniff** Why am I aways the last one to hear about these things?

**hands you a tissue and rubs your back**

Ouiser: It's going to be okay, I promise. Really at worst I'll be back next week

*muffled sob**

Ouiser: okay okay, maybe sooner I'll try.

****************************************

Sorry bout that.. anway today's post is all about multi tasking and recognizing my limits.

At the precious angel's baptism I served a whole slue of homemade dishes including my favorite crab cakes with several sauces (also homemade, natch) this time around I'm ordering is all and not making a thing. I keep expecting to feel guilty about it but the first guests arrive in about an hour and so far I don't feel anything but relief. So, for my two cents, at your next family gathering please don't stress. Order in and try to spend the precious time you have actually catching up with your loved ones.

This Sunday we'll be dining on Honey Baked Ham, Chick-Fil-A nuggets (mmmm- always a hit), and an assortment of cheese and meats from Cheesetique. Did I mention they have the best pimento cheese in the world. Cause they do.

This all occurs after Baby Deux's spot in heaven is reserved of course. Oh and as it turns out the Bishop will be the one to baptize him. Does this mean he gets a seat closer to the big guy in the sky? mmm, perhaps I'll ask mamere or the DFIL, both of whom are ministers.

Although something tells me they'll both think I'm serious and have a complex answer for me. Dear loved ones, I kiiiiid, I kiiiiid!

Cheers,
A Saved Ouiser

Hip & Cool I Am No More, I'd Rather Have a Nice Meal & Go to Bed

Morning all,

Is it Saturday? I seriously woke up this morning thinking it was Saturday, then reality set it. DH whisked me out on the town last night, which is odd for us on a Monday and probably explaining my confusion this morning. We had originally booked the sitter so we could go to a concert last night. Little did I know you had to buy tickets in advance. The "concert" was at a club... does anyone else remember having to buy tickets in advance to a club???

Maybe I'm old (sigh) but I recall waiting in line, paying a ridiculously high cover charge, getting the requisite stamp/wristband and diving into an overcrowded bar to spend way too much for a watered down cocktail half of which would be spilled before you found a small dingy table in the corner. So yah, I was shocked to find out that it was sold out.

But in retrospect I had a significantly better time last night than I probably would have had if we'd gone to said club. Instead we dined at Black Salt in... well I don't know the neighborhood's name. This Virginian gets so confused with all the neighborhoods in NW. Is it MacArthur? Palisades? Glover Park? So, I'll just call it upper NW.

What seems like ages ago we made a bet, one that neither of can remember the details of but we both remembered that I'd won and had requested dinner at Black Salt as my reward.

Anyway, we had a decadently delicious dinner. Cocktails to start followed by sparkling wine, oysters, fried clams, two delicious fish dishes, two incredibly rich desserts and cappuccino to end. Phewwww, yes we had to be rolled out of the restaurant in a wheel barrel but it was worth it!

DH was so sweet he even tried to buy scalped tickets for the concert. But as we poured ourselves home I realized that I had more fun talking and laughing with DH over a nice meal than I ever would have at a loud, smelly, dark bar where I probably would have been forced to drink bad beer.

I may be old and unhip but I'm much much happier in my cleaner, nicer and much tastier surroundings.

Cheers, 
An Older Wiser Ousier

Chocolate Eggs & Bunny Bread Hangover

So folks, hope yall had a wonderful Easter filled with family, friends, eggs, bunnies, and all things chocolate. Cause really isn't that the whole point of Easter? oh and monster trucks... yes the easter bunny brought the biggest hit of the day. One I might add that kept our precious angel occupied all day long.

And in what I can only assume was a celebration of Jesus' resurrection we had a miracle of our own... both boys were on their best behavior during church. The family behind us even told me after the service that she'd never seen such happy and well behaved children. I wanted to say "You should see them at bedtime when they're screaming and howling" but instead I politely smiled and said, "oh thank you that is so very sweet."

While the boys were napping I made Bunny Bread and dyed easter eggs. Our boys are still a little young to understand "hunting for eggs" but nevertheless I dyed six eggs, because that's what you're supposed to do. And I'm nothing if not a slave to tradition.

If you missed it the first time around you can click here to get the Bunny Bread recipe.

I'm not sure why but mine looks like the Bunny who ate Manhattan, or maybe a Bunny Sumo Wrestler? I seem to recall my mom's, godmother's and godsister's turning out much prettier.

Oh and speaking of my mom, she giggled at this. True story. The first store I went to was out of rapid rise yeast so I went to another but they only had active dry yeast. In a moment of panic I called my mom. Without so much as a hello, I blurted out. "I'm having a yeast emergancy" After a moment's pause, she hesitantly giggled and ask if I could elaborate. I realized what I'd then said and laughed explaining my predicament. Turns out you can use either rapid rise or active dry and it turns out just as yummy!

And I'm SUPER pleased that one of my own readers decided to make bunny bread with their kiddos. Here is a pic of their beautiful bunny. I LOVE the bunny belly button!! You made my day by sharing this.

Cheers, 
Ouiser

It's That Time of Year Again...

While some people have Valentines Day and President's Day on their February calendars, we have Feb. 17th marked on ours... What is the significance you might ask? That was the day that Cubs pitchers and catchers reported. Yep, Ouiser's clan is O-B-S-E-S-S-E-D with Cubs baseball.

Author's Note: DH is actually at this very moment participating in one of four, maybe five fantasy baseball drafts. Sigh, and he makes fun of my fanfic reading. I mean really is one worse than the other? I don't think so.

Anywho, being the dedicated, loyal, loving and perfect wife that I am I try to make sure that I have at least a working knowledge of the Cubs. And until now, I'd either gotten my information from DH directly or from Baseball Tonight... again while DH is watching. Well, this year I'm taking the initiative to get all "in the weeds," roll around in the dirt and get the low down (are the kids still saying that? yes? Coolio.)

What was that? how am I planning to get said information? I'm so glad you asked... Apparently THE blog to visit for all the latest on the Cubs is ... www.wrigleyville23.com

Just took a quick peek and am now chalk full of fun little tid bits to toss out at DH to let him know how much I care...


1. Lou "no-last-name-needed" has a cold. Hey, Lou are you taking airborne? Cause that totally works. Also I use an aspirator and saline spray with my babies and they seem to love it. And by love it I mean absolutely HATE it but it works, so maybe you should try it?


2. Mets fans are super classy and are totally "into" Opera. That's awesome, cause I also want to be "into" Opera" In fact I regularly get "invitation only" letters from The Kennedy Center asking me to contribute to their foundation.  Obviously I'm someone special.

3. Former Cubs players (specifically Mr. Milton Bradley) are fluent in Latin. Which is totally awesome cause I had one year of Latin in 8th grade, so I'm also pretty much fluent.

4. Cubs Fans hate certain mean journalist. Oh. My. God. Meeeee tooooooo! As a political fundraiser in my pre-mommy days, those mean media types were always trying to make me look bad with salacious headlines like... "Nicole {lastname} arming Democrats with Guns". I kid you not folks, that was really a headline circa 2001.

So you see my point ... folks you really should be reading the Wrigleyville blog. It's witty and informative and it gives me just one more reason to remind DH how lucky he is that I said yes. And really isn't forced gratitude at the heart of any healthy marriage?

Cheers, 
Ouiser

PS Tony, hope you are okay with this... it's all in good fun! I did check out your blog tonight and really really like it. So much so I'm adding it to the blog roll! Cause you know I have TENs of readers every day.

Recipe of the Week ~ Bunny Bread

No April Fools Jokes here my friends. It really has more to do with the fact that I'm the absolute worst at pranks. The few times I've attempted they are either A) not funny or B) not funny. Take your pick. Plus I'm ridiculously gullible so I in turn fall for every last one of them.

Sure, I can dish out a sardonic quip here or there but gut wrenching shocks and belly laughing surprises are not my expertise. Instead I'm giving you one of my most favorite recipes that is tied to some of my most favorite memories.

Like most major holidays, I grew up spending it with family. In my case "family" included my godparents, who incidentally also happened to be my parents' best friends. Easter was no exception.

I have very fond memories of my Godsister (what? yes it's a real term) making her famous deviled eggs  several of which always came out tinted a light pink from the the dye seeping in. And then there is the official bread of Easter... no I'm not getting all religious on you and discussing mana or the body of Christ....

No, I'm talking about Bunny Bread, natch.

I don't remember what year it was first printed in the Houston Chronicle but I'd say it was sometime in the mid-80's. My godmother clipped the recipe and we've been making it every year since then. In fact one year DH and I spent the holiday with his oldest sister and her family and they were kind enough to make it with me that year. Now, I'm pretty certain it's a tradition of their own!

This is not only fun and easy to make with kids, it's also really really tasty! And not to get all schmaltzy on you but I hope you'll try making it with your family. We most certainly will be.

I'm thinking I just might let the baby boy help roll out the dough. I mean why bother cooking if you can't get some flour on the floor every once in awhile!

tee hee hee note: I just pulled out the recipe card to type it out here when I noticed that next to the title: Bunny Bread, Mamere wrote "Easter" in parenthesis. Really Mamere? Did you think I was going to get confused and serve Bunny Bread on President's Day? You are too cute. 

Bunny Bread
Makes 1 large bunny

5 1/2 C All-purpose flour
2 C       Carrots, grated
3/4 C    Walnuts
2 TBS   Sugar
1/2 tsp   Salt
2 pkg.   Rapid Rise Yeast
1 C       Water
2/3 C    Milk
3 TBS  Butter
1           Egg
Raisin for bunny eyes and whiskers

Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Set aside 1 cup of flour in a large bowl. Mix remaining flour, carrots, walnuts, sugar, salt and yeast in a large bowl.

In a saucepan over low heat cook water, milk and butter until hot to touch. Stir into dry ingredients and Mix in only enough of the reserved flour to make dough soft.

On a lightly floured surface knead dough until elastic (8-10  mins). Cover and let rest for 10 mins in a warm place.

Okay, I've read mamere's directions for making the bunny a few times and even I think they are confusing so here's my attempt....

Divide the dough appropriately to make the body, paws and ears on a greased baking sheet. Then add raisins for the eyes and whiskers. Cover loosely with towel and place baking sheet with covered bunny over a bowl of hot water for 20 mins.

Brush all over with a beaten egg and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let rest before tearing at the limbs. :)

This is basically what it should look like.... although ours have smaller paws and ears than this one. Not sure but am thinking he had one too many salted margaritas last night, perhaps that caused all the swelling in the paws.

Cheers,
Ouiser