Stephanie's tid bits

Day Five of Construction

2012-02-10T15:46:00.000-08:00

So, the week is over. The back mudroom is gone. Good thing, since there was old termite damage! We knew it was old and needed to be rebuilt. The foundation piers are set. There is now a dumpster and a porta potty in the backyard (home prices around us are plummeting). The framing will start on Monday. There will be a large load of lumber coming our way on Monday. For the next THREE weeks there will be alot of hammering during the days. Once that has started, we will be able to see progress.

Here is a photo from this morning.

Seems so strange to see that as the back of the house!

The Old Kitchen

2012-02-07T10:21:00.000-08:00

So the first day of construction (prep) was yesterday. It was NOT smooth. But I don't want to talk about that . . . . today. I want to talk about the ol' blue kitchen. I hated it. When we bought the house, in 1998, it was okay. Nothing terrific. The flow was bad. But the kitchen treated us well. Adam and I enjoyed many homemade meals from the kitchen. I remember when Mark was born . . . . and how he was in the basket, and then the bouncy seat, watching us eat at the kitchen table. I remember feeding him rice cereal for the first time in the kitchen.

I also remember when Naomi was born . . . and was in the same basket and bouncy seat. . . . and high chair. When we had the high chair, things were REALLY crowded in the kitchen. With the four of us, it is still crowded, since it is small.

When I came home from work last night, the kitchen was boarded up. No more entry for any of us. A wall separates us . . . . and it is very strange coming home, and not walking into the kitchen. It was my central control area - food prep, phone messages, homework, meal time, calendar and many other things. And now we are spread out. The living room and dining room all have more "stuff."

I look forward to 15 weeks and 4 days when I can step inside my brand new kitchen.

The Skinny Beet

2012-01-29T17:12:00.000-08:00

So, back in October, I saw a GROUPON, that I thought would be fun. A cooking demo for the family. Snatched it up, booked a date in January and waited, and waited and waited. Last year at this time we had MOUNTAINS of snow, and I was desperate for activities to do with the kids.

My kids love food. Both kids have eclectic tastes. We remind Mark often that when he was 18 months old, we took him to LUCA in Denver, where Aunt Rebecca was working. Mark demolished the white bean pate with truffles. I mean DEMOLISHED IT. I don't think the rest of us had more than a taste. Last year he tried Aunt Rebecca's octopus, and loved it. The kid likes food. The kid DOESN'T like chicken nuggets or Kraft mac and cheese.

Tonight he was a bit skeptical at first of the menu. But was willing to give it a try.

Chef Richard made this AMAZING white bean hummus with homemade pita.

Then Chef Richard started on amazing ratatouille.

Then Chef Katie made homemade pasta. She put a well of flour on the kitchen table, broke three eggs into the middle, and put some salt and olive oil. And then the kids watched, as this pile of a mess turned into PASTA!

Then she kneaded it, and kneaded it.

Then the kids had to do some work of separating the pasta.

And then the final course - dessert. She made a free form pear tart.

I don't think the kids will forget this meal! And I was amazed that we all fit IN the kitchen while this was happening.

Thanks Chef Katie and Chef Richard!

Kitchen Redesign

2012-01-02T16:51:00.000-08:00

So, Adam and I both had this week off. . . . and my parents were gracious enough to watch the kids for part of the time, so we could start shopping for the new kitchen and Naomi's room. I have been really excited about this project for 14 years. . . . . and I have been waiting and wishing. On a bonus note, we are moving the door of the main floor bathroom from the kitchen to our living room (which we use as a family room).

We meet Victoria at our first stop Splash. . . . and I have to tell you that Victoria has patience!!!! First she arranged with each vendor ahead of time, our style and wants, and our budget. This was amazing. We were very good with picking out a new bathroom toilet and sink; kitchen faucet and sink. That part went quickly.

Side Note - Look up NUMI toilet. . . . on google. We saw one of them at Splash.

Off to Wolfer's Lighting, and this is where I started to think . . . I am in over my head. . . lights and lights and more lights. Sooo many decisions. We made some good head way. Not all decisions have been made. I learned ALOT about lighting though!

Then off to Moynihan Doors and Windows. I had no idea how many choices I had for interior and exterior doors. Luckily we only need one of each . . . . . and new windows. . . for the whole house. We made decisions about the doors, and left the knobs for later (another amazing array of choices).

On Friday, we started off with cabinets. I have to say things went well. . . . until Adam said he likes knobs and I said I like pulls. . . . we have a bit of work to do on that front! Who knew. I really liked the woman from the cabinet store. Again, she knew our style and budget, thanks to Victoria.

Then, off for bathroom floor tile. The decision for bathroom floor was super easy. We picked out the same tile as our upstairs bathroom. The backsplash for the kitchen was a bit more daunting. . . . I really like the glass tiles, but the salesperson said it could be too over powering. We narrowed the backsplash down to two choices.

Then . . .. APPLIANCES . . . YALE APPLIANCE, which is an amazing store, with huge amounts of stuff!!!! Google it!

Of course, our price range narrows down the choices. . . . . dishwasher and fridge - easy. Double oven . . .well we have it down to two. . . . and now, this is where I start falling apart.

Right now our stove is against the wall, and we have a simple range hood. Well, in the new kitchen our cooktop is over the "island" and Adam and I are not liking the prices of the island hoods or the idea of the hood in the way. But neither of us are sold on downdrafts for the ventilation either. Sooo, we emailed Dave, the architect, and asked what the options are. . . can we move the sink to the island, and the cooktop to the window. . . . and make changes to the window. I hate changing things, however (1) this is why we hired a team . . . . and (2) construction hasn't started so it is okay.

Stay tuned!

And thanks to Cory, Dave and Victoria of New England Design and Construction.

PS - made some blueberry muffins and chocolate chip mondelbret today, just to keep up with the baking!

Some Chanukah Songs

2011-12-22T13:15:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XND3Naa6N5o
Orrin Hatch is pretty good with the song writing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSJCSR4MuhU&noredirect=1
The Maccabeets are good too!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jzh-TKzXN2k
The Fountainheads

Cookbooks and Parties

2011-12-21T05:19:00.000-08:00

This post is really two posts in one.

CHANUKAH PARTY
I have been to my fair share of Hanukah parties. Last night I attended the BEST one, that I have ever been to, thanks to TEMPLE EMANUEL in Newton, MA. The latkes were good (my kids even agreed) and plentiful (in years past, not so plentiful). The set up was roomy for 700+ people. Then, we got down to the ruach. The kids choir and the adults choir, and then THE FOUNTAINHEADS all the way from the land of MILK AND HONEY - ISRAEL!

The children, 100+, were dancing. There was RUACH. There was lots of RUACH. We were celebrating being Jewish, and the kids were singing and dancing, and whooping it up. It was wonderful. So glad that I was there to witness my kids, and other kids, dancing like they were dancing to THE BEATLES! It was wonderful. The FOUNTAINHEADS really enjoyed themselves too!

COOKBOOKS
I have recently added to my collection:

http://www.amazon.com/Cooking-Everyday-English-Great-Flavor/dp/084873484X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1324473569&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/Food-Life-Ancient-Persian-Ceremonies/dp/193382347X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1324473534&sr=1-1

and

soon:

http://www.amazon.com/Roses-Heavenly-Cakes-Rose-Beranbaum/dp/0471781738/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1324473555&sr=1-1

Kitchen Redesign

2011-12-16T12:37:00.001-08:00

Do you know anyone like this?

http://www.nedesignbuild.com/blog/newton-home-gets-smart-remodel/

DELIVERY

2011-12-08T13:47:00.001-08:00

http://www.templeemanuel.com/Sisterhood_Cookbook

So, the cookbook is about to be delivered to Esther's door tomorrow afternoon. I am so excited. I have goosebumps. Esther and I have worked on this project for almost three years. Once we get them, we are going to SELL SELL SELL.

You can click the above link to order a cookbook.

You can pick up a copy on SUNDAY DEC 11 at Temple Emanuel in NEWTON, MA from 9 AM to 1 PM.

We accept cash and checks (payable to Temple Emanuel Sisterhood).

I can't wait to feel the pages. Turn the pages. Watch others discover the wonerful recipes.

The Jews of Uganda

2011-12-07T05:20:00.001-08:00

Usually my blog is about the food I cook, or about my family. Today’s blog is about a talk I went to last night about the Abayudaya, the Ugandan Jewish Village. How this village became Jewish is amazing, and the current rabbi of the village, is amazing. Last night we heard the music of the synagogue from the congregants. We saw videos of the villagers. We learned about their history. We learned that most of them are subsistence farmers, and earn $1 a day. There is no running water in the village and no electricity. But, they are dedicated conservative Jews. They observe kashrut. They observe Shabbat. They know Hebrew. They love Israel. They need our help. They need our help to send their children, to college in Uganda. They have educated their own children to become teachers, principals, doctors, lawyers, engineers, tour guides, plumbers, etc. But college in Uganda is $4,800 a year. However, they cannot afford it. However, there is a way for you to help. Please contact Cindy Paisner at 617-630-1011 if you are willing to donate to the Higher Education Fund.

http://www.shalomboston.com/language/he-IL/Calendar/EventCalendar/ModuleID/566/ItemID/4418/mctl/EventDetails.aspx?selecteddate=03/04/2011

Last night’s talk made me think that my current worries, are my own worries, but yet there are bigger worries in the world. I don’t worry where my clean water will come from. I don’t worry that I don’t have the money for my co-payment for my child to see the doctor. I worry about the insurance claim being denied, but I don’t worry about my access to see the doctor. I am glad that I took the time out of my busy day to learn many new things; but also to be aware of more global concerns.

Dinner

2011-12-04T14:27:00.001-08:00

So, besides being very busy with Thanksgiving, and then Chanukah and the release of the cookbook, we are starting the process of a small addition. So in case you think I have been missing .. . .

Just wanted to share with you a recipe:

2 bunches (about 12 oz. each) spinach, rinsed well and drained

12 ounces dry orecchiette or ruote (wheel-shaped pasta)

1/3 cup olive oil

6 cloves garlic, minced or pressed

1/4 c. sundried tomato

Salt

Directions

Remove and discard spinach stems; chop leaves coarsely and set aside.
In a 6- to 8-quart pan, cook orecchiette in 4 quarts boiling water just until tender to bite (12 to 15 minutes); or cook according to package directions. Just before pasta is done, stir in spinach.
Cook, uncovered, stirring to distribute spinach, just until water returns to a full boil.
Drain pasta and spinach.

While pasta is cooking, heat oil in a wide frying pan over medium heat.
Stir in garlic and sun dried tomatoes. Cook, uncovered, until garlic turns opaque (about 2 minutes).
Add pasta and spinach to pan; mix lightly, using 2 spoons. Season with salt.

Thanksgiving - Menu Planning

2011-11-16T16:38:00.001-08:00

This is the second time that I am hosting Thanksgiving, and I am really excited. I have been thinking about the menu and the different components for a while now. We are hosting some friends also, so this will be very exciting.

So, first we will start off with hot dogs in a blanket and some tomato-pepper dip. The dip is the one from the Persian Bride cookbook, which I really like. It is really easy and dairy free and meat free.

Then we move to knishes from the Butcherie, two kinds of cranberry sauce (cranberry orange sauce that my mom will make, and then the canned jelly stuff for me), homemade bread, pickles and olives.

Then we get down to TURKEY! I love turkey. My mom will be bringing the turkey. I haven't made one myself yet, and Adam doesn't like the smell of it. Although one of these years he is going to get used to it. I will be making Adam a curry tofu dish, which is really easy (and much less expensive than the wild mushroom casserole that I made last year). We will also have sweet potatoes with marshmallows, because I totally love it (sooo not gourmet, but who cares). Then my mom will make a chestnut stuffing, and I will make a vegetarian stuffing. And I am also going to have peas. Maybe another vegetable.

Then, my favorite part - dessert. We will have fruit, chocolate pie (Mae's recipe from the 1970s that my kids love, love, love), maple cream pie, pumpkin pie (because Naomi is insisting on trying one piece) and candied cranberry chocolate tart.

Time to start my grocery list.

Full Day Kindergarten

2011-11-03T06:06:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that Newton Public Schools does not offer full day kindergarten. Somehow, our model is that kindergartens attend school until 12:30 every day in September. Starting in October, the kids are divided in half (Team A and Team B). Team A attends kindergarten on Mondays and Wednesdays until 3 PM and Team B attends school on Thursdays and Fridays until 3 PM. Of course the entire Newton Elementary School system is released early on Tuesdays (which is great so teachers can work together, and learn together); and again on 7 Thursdays (not so great).

While some of Newton's officials think that this is a great model, I do not. First, logistically, it is a nightmare, especially for households that having only working parents. Second, and more importantly, we are short changing our children. Study after study say that our early learning years are very important, and even more important for children who have difficulties learning. We need to invest in our youngest learners. By allowing our children more classroom time, we are giving them the support in reading, writing and math. For those who need specialists, the specialists are there, and can offer more support.

Of course this takes money, but if we don't invest in our future, who will? Today's kindergarten students will be tomorrow's leaders, and will be taking care of the world and the older generation. Give them the most that we can offer.

If you live in Newton, write to the school committee, and ask for their SUPPORT FOR FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN.

Zucchini Bread

2011-10-29T12:21:00.000-07:00

This recipe was given to me by my mom. When I was little we grew zucchini's in the garden, and they looked like baseball bats. Here is one way to use alot of zucchini (especially if you make two or three batches).

It is dairy free!

3 cups zucchini (NOT peeled, ends cut off)
1 1/2 cups canola oil
3 cups sugar
3 large eggs
4 t vanilla
4 1/2 cups flour
1 1/2 t. baking soda
1 /2 t. baking powder
4 1/2 t cinnamon
3/4 c nuts (walnuts or pecans) (Optional)

Preheat oven to 350.

Combine all ingredients in large mixing bowl. Don't over mix. Bake at 350 for 70 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.

It can be made into muffins - bake for 20 minutes.

The House

2011-10-26T05:27:00.000-07:00

Let me give you some history. . . we have lived in our current house since 1998. It is a small house, and an especially small house for Newton. However, we have an amazing neighborhood, and the kids attend a school with wonderful teachers.

But the house is small.

It is also outdated.

Don't get me wrong, we have done work on the house . . . we have a new chimney, a new boiler, a new roof, 8 new windows, painted. . . . insulation. We have painted the dining room, the living room, and the kids rooms. I have a new fridge and stove, and a relatively new dishwasher (2004).

We have the original bathrooms that came with the house.

We also have the same kitchen. I hate the kitchen. I spend ALOT of time in the kitchen. But I hate it. From one spot in the kitchen, I do my prep. . . . and when I want to turn on the stove, I turn to the right. If I want to go to the fridge, I step back one step. If I want to wash a dish, I step to the left. I hover in one spot in the kitchen.

AND, if anyone wants to be in the kitchen to keep me company, they are in the way. Doesn't matter where they stand. They are in the way.

And whoever designed this kitchen, put the bathroom in the kitchen, and the door to the bathroom in the back corner of the bathroom. Which means if ANYONE needs to use the bathroom, I have to move out of the way, so they can pass by. On top of that, my poor husband's spot at the kitchen table is next to the bathroom door. I don't need to say any more than that.

So just move.

I don't want to give up the neighborhood. We have block parties. . . . the kids play outside with others. At a certain age, the kids go outside by themselves. No one drives THROUGH the neighborhood. It is not connected to anything else.

I don't want to leave the Angier school. . . . . and we can't afford anything else in this district.

So just add on . . . .

Hmmmm, now if we had a HUGE plot, that would be easy. But because our house is "cottage-craftman" style, we can't add a block to the back . . . it would be ugly. We can't add to the right, because we are seven feet from the property line.

Which brings us to a Design Build Company.

One company is very willing to work with us. . . . and help us. The other said, you need to dump $250K into the addition, you still won't be happy, but you can think about it. . . . .

What can we do?

So, now I am pondering. Adam is pondering. We want to live here. . . . Our daughter needs a larger room (which is a closet right now), and I need a new kitchen (the cabinet doors are already helping me, by falling off all the time).

Does anyone have any ideas?

Sisterhood Cookbook

2011-10-23T16:54:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that Esther M. and I are co-chairing the Sisterhood cookbook. It has been a labor of love. Of course, if the project was a child, it would be walking and talking by now.

I am really excited to see the final product soon. We have reviewed and reviewed the book. This is after we have tested, tested, tested and retested.

As soon as it is out all of you will know!

Will also let you know so you can BUY your own copy, or two or three!

Cooking Up a Storm

2011-09-25T16:53:00.000-07:00

This year, not only am I doing Erev Rosh Hashana, but I am also doing the Second Day! Lots of cooking for me.

Erev will be dinner for 8! Second Day will be dinner for 10!

Menu:
2 Homemade Challahs made by me
Knishes
Hummus
Moroccan Tomato Dip - made by me
Mushroom Soup - made by me
Chicken with Tomatoes - made by me
BBQ Tofu - made by me
Basmati Rice
Carrots with honey
Fruit
Homemade apple crisp
Cookie Plate - zucchini bread, brownies and Mandelbrot

Second Day
2 Homemade Challahs - made by me
Pigs in a Blanket
Hummus
Tomato Dip
Chicken Soup - Mady's recipe made by me - will be in the SISTERHOOD COOKBOOK
Roast Chicken
Cranbery Rice Bake - Made by me - will be in the SISTERHOOD COOKBOOK
Roasted Potatoes
Broccoli
Fruit Honey Cake Made by me
Cookie Plate - zucchini bread, brownies and Mandelbrot

Snacks and Lunches

2011-09-20T04:53:00.000-07:00

So this year, I now pack a lunch and a snack for Mark; and a lunch and a snack for Naomi. After years of packing lunches, you would think I have this down. But I don't. Naomi is not a big fan of sandwiches. I mean ALL sandwiches. She doesn't mind the stuffings, but she can leave the bread. And she does.

Mark for the most part of his career has eaten either peanut butter and fluff sandwiches or turkey sandwiches. He isn't that picky.

One sandwich that Naomi will eat (and of course Mark) is pastrami. So, I buy a pound of Kosher Pastrami at the supermarket, which both kids are loving. Of course they are getting protein (and more fat that I want), but they are eating it.

However, I like variety. So today's lunch is roasted chicken on the bone. Because they are going to afterschool, where there is a microwave, I am able to do this. I take the chicken off the bone, cut it up and put it in a microwave safe container. Mark likes to take vegetables with his lunch, so today he has some cucumber slices. Naomi, prefers fruit, so she has a big bunch of juicy red grapes.

Snack has gotten easier. The following items are okay for either kid: yogurt and or granola bars. Each one gets either a fruit or a vegetable with the yogurt or granola bar. But again, I like variety. This weekend I made zucchini muffins. Each one has a zucchini muffin, and loves it. Sometimes there a pretzels. Sometimes Pirates Booty.

Mark and Naomi prefer homemade baked goods, so each one for lunch has a chocolate chip brownie.

I hope when they pack snacks for their children, they put in as much thought and love as I do.

Sweet Pototoes

2011-09-13T16:48:00.001-07:00

I totally love sweet potatoes. I love them baked. . . I love sweet potato fries. I love sweet potato mash. I LOVE sweet potatoes. To me the fall is the best time to eat sweet potatoes.

Tonight I sliced sweet potatoes, and the put them on an oiled cookie sheet, and baked them.

YUMMY in MY TUMMY. I LOVE SWEET POTATOES.

Here are some other ways to eat them!

Recipe #1

Recipe #2

Recipe #3

CookBook

2011-09-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

Now, I love my hubby. . . I really do. . . . but he hasn't bought me a surprise for awhile now. . . (non birthday, non anniversary, etc) surprise gift in a long time.

He emailed me from work a couple of weeks ago, that one of his coworkers brought in this ice cream as a thank you.

http://www.jenisicecreams.com/

And he ordered me the cookbook.

So, it came, and I gave it a whirl.

Salted Caramel Ice Cream

IS

THE

BEST!

Can't wait to have more. . . . and thank goodness it only makes a quart, because I would be eating it morning, noon and night!

http://www.amazon.com/Jenis-Splendid-Ice-Creams-Home/dp/1579654363

MUST BUY IT if you own an ice cream maker!

Lemon Creme Tart

2011-08-21T17:11:00.000-07:00

I made the most amazing Lemon Tart last night. So very yummy, and very easy. I found it in the "Bon Appetit Desserts" cookbook. I served it last night, and I can't wait to eat the leftovers!

Here is a link to the book.

Waffles

2011-08-16T17:34:00.000-07:00

Today at camp Mark earned his Junior Yeoman (in archery), so he wanted waffles. He got waffles! This time we used a mix that my mother in law purchased for me.

It is really easy. . . but doesn't make enough for my waffle crazy family.

Mark and Naomi love waffles fresh from the waffle iron.

Topia Inn - our weekend getaway without kids

2011-08-09T09:25:00.000-07:00

I highly recommend the TOPIA INN in Adams, MA. . . . a great get away in the Berkshires. It is an all organic bed and breakfast, and reasonably priced. Leave YOUR shampoo, conditioner and deoderant at home . . . bring your brush and toothbrush . . . . They need you to use their stuff. . . . and it is okay, and sometimes better. They don't want your stuff messing with their inn.

Once we arrived, we had to take off our shoes, and Nina showed us around. . . our room and the breakfast room.

Our room was CLEAN, and I mean CLEAN. . . like the place had opened YESTERDAY . . . and not three years ago. The bedding is organic. Their cleaning products are organic. The lights are LED lights. They do have A/C and sateliite TV for the flat screens in each room. It is a CLEAN place.

The inn is heated with vegetable oil. They provide their own electricity. They have solar panels on the room, and the breakfast room has the meter.

Our first breakfast was poached pears with a mango syrup, which was totally yummy. Followed by a crustless quiche and banana bread made with applesauce. Again. . . yummy. Organic tea and coffee (with caffeine).

Our second breakfast was a banana smoothie with mango lemonade and then the most amazing STEAMED french toast. OMG. . . . delicisou.

Everything is certified organic, except for the produce that they grow themselves.

Each of the nine rooms have different themes, and we stayed in the french room. Two rooms have floating beds, which would be cool to try.

www.topiainn.com

Read reviews on www.tripadvisor.com

See their article in the NY TIMES!

Really Easy Pizza Dough

2011-08-05T13:35:00.001-07:00

DOUGH
1 cup warm water
1 package yeast
1 t. kosher salt
1 t. sugar
3 cups flour

* Preheat pizza stone in oven at 400 degrees for 15 minutes.
* Place warm water, yeast, salt and sugar in bowl, and let sit for five minutes.
* Place 2 cups of flour in food processor.
* Put the yeast mixture in the food processor. Turn on for 10 seconds.
* Put the remaining one cup of flour in the food processor, and process til one ball of dough appears.
* Place on cutting board, and divide in half. Roll each half into a circle.
* Place pizza sauce of choice on dough.
* Place one cup of shredded cheese of choice on top of sauce.
* Place any seasonings or toppings on the cheese.
* Place pizza on stone and place in oven for 25 minutes.

Soba Noodles

2011-08-03T04:38:00.001-07:00

Last night I made a fabulous dinner that was very easy. I cut up alot of brocoli florets, because my family loves brocoli.

I also started to boil a large pot of water. Once it got boiling, I put the contents of a box of soba noodles into the boiling water. Naomi declared that the uncooked soba noodles looked like popsicle sticks. I assured her that they would taste better than sticks. Soba noodles take 4-5 minutes to cook. I then drained them, and let some cold water run through them (as instructed on the box).

I also heated up some canola oil in a large wok, and let that get good and hot. I then dumped the brocoli into the oil, and stirred them for about five minutes. I then added some salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 cup of vegetable stock. I let that heat up for five minutes, and stirred often. I then put in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and stirred again.

Then I put the soba noodles in a large pasta bowl, and put the brocoli on top. Although I poured about half of the sauce onto the noodles, and I then left some of the sauce in the wok, and put a bit of corn starch into the sauce, to thicken. Just heat for a few minutes and then pour on top of the brocoli.

The kids and the adults loved the dinner! A new easy dish for the Weitzman family.

Gazpacho - a refreshing cold soup

2011-07-22T04:09:00.000-07:00

1 cup freshly chopped, peeled tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped, peeled cucumber
1/4 c chopped onion
2 tsp finely chopped parsley
2 tsp finely chopped chives
1 clove garlic, minced
2 1/2 T wine vinegar
2 T EVOO
ground pepper (a few twists)
1 t Worcestershire sauce
2 cup tomatoe soup

Combine all ingredients a glass bowl, and stir to mix. Cover and chill for several hours.

Serve in chilled bowls with croutons.

A GREAT RECIPE

2011-06-15T10:51:00.000-07:00

ENJOY this recipe!

Dinner

2011-06-06T16:29:00.001-07:00

I really like to bake, however for dinner, one can't dine on chocolate chip cookies. Something about the old food pyramid.

Anyways. . . .

Tonight I made this yummy and simple dinner from one of my cookbooks.

While the pasta is cooking, you heat some EVOO in a saute pan, and add four cloves of garlic, minced. Then some uncooked broccoli. Then some water, and heat til the water is gone. Then you add some edamame, fresh oregano and salt. Once the pasta has cooked, drain it, and put it in a large bowl. Add the cooked broccoli and edamame, and then top with chopped walnuts. Some people add a bit of shredded Parmesan cheese on top. So simple and so yummy.

TROMBONE MAN

2011-05-25T13:42:00.001-07:00

Frittata Time

2011-05-25T13:39:00.000-07:00

I made a potato onion frittata in my new frittata pan, with a side of white asparagus (the kids had the asparagus with some mac and cheese). I LOVE MY NEW FRITTATA pan.

First you thinly slice the potato, and saute them in oil for 20 min. Then saute the onion. Then add the eggs, and cook and wait.

DELICIOUS!

Random Things

2011-05-24T05:44:00.001-07:00

I know that I have been a major slacker. This is a busy time of year. School is winding down. Mark's class is putting on a Cricket in Time play. Mark is also doing his first research project, on a weasel. Each kid needs to do a report on a New England animal. Mark is doing a fabulous, and his teacher is teaching him how to organize all the different parts, and NOT TO WAIT FOR THE LAST MINUTE. Mark's class is also going to have a recorder concert.

AND, let us not forget that Naomi is graduating from preschool in June! Yup. My baby is graduating. So on one morning, I will go from Angier's presentation on New England Animals to the preschool graduation. I am really excited.

And we have my company party.

And Mark and Adam had one boy scout sleepover two weekends ago, and another one in June.

And two trips to FL planned.

And Mark's Little League season is underway (mostly).

Hebrew School is over for the school year.

And the cook book project still looms. Editors needed.

And, I still have to do the cooking and cleaning and laundry.

Recently I made a buttery chocolate chip cake from the Boston Globe which was amazing. Last night I made cheese quesadilla's, which were a big hit. I also made sweet raisin bread, and the jury is still out on that.

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today is mother's day . . . . nine years ago, I celebrated Mother's Day for the first time, as being a mom.

Today, my crew gave me a Frittata pan, which I have been eyeing for a few years. For lunch, I made an onion and portobello mushroom frittata, which was delicious!!! My mom brought the brownies.

The kids gave me a great card.

The cover said "Good moms let the kids lick the beaters." When you open the card, it says "Great moms turn off the mixer first."

I laughed til I cried!!!!!

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

Side Note - Mark had a great birthday party with his friends, including a TRON CAKE, and a sleep over. The sleep over went VERY well. Can't wait to have his friend's back.

The first part was laser tag, where the "host" told me that this crew, was the best behaved and least wild party of the day!

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

Happy Mother's Day

Birthday Season

2011-05-06T04:57:00.000-07:00

So it is birthday season here. Both kids have birthdays the last week of April (and the end of Passover too).

Spring Time!

2011-04-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

Spring time means spring cleaning, baseball, and spending time outside. It also means Pesach. Cleaning the house, buying really expensive Passover food, and attending seders, and of course prepping the youngest child for the four questions.

Looking through the recipes that I have collected over the years, and trying to decide what to make for every single meal. Hey, not a big deal to most people. However, during the 8 days of Passover, I have to cook EVERY single meal. There is no going out to eat. There is no school lunch. This is eight days of custom breakfasts, which causes alot of issues in my house. Every day we eat cold breakfast cereal. . . . we have a nice selection. Except during Pesach. Pesach cereal stinks. I have to whip out the Kosher For Passover pancakes, which is time consuming, when we are all trying to get out of the house. I could make eggs, but Naomi doesn't like plain eggs. I could make fried matza, but neither kid likes it, and Adam and I like different preperations.

And then there is dinner. . . . what a pain. I get out of work at 5 PM, and dinner is usually on the table by 6:15 PM. Most of the Pesach dinners require more prep (no frozen pasta, for example), and our favorite meals (homemade blintzes, latkes) take more time to prep. Of course, I have a vegetarian, and a kid who is possibly allergic to eggs.

Snacks aren't a problem. . . .

So what are my yearly favorites to make:
Passover granola - breakfast or snack
Passover Chocolate Chip Cookies
Asparagus "Risotto" made from farfel
Kosher for Passover Blintzes
Potato latkes.

This year I am making this soup.

Sooo, if you have any great ideas for dinners or breakfasts, please let me know!

The last one. . . .

2011-03-23T04:08:00.000-07:00

I know that most of the time I write about food, because, I LOVE to eat. This year has been a great year so far. Naomi is finishing her Preschool year at BITC. BITC is our daycare. It is much more than a daycare. Yes, the teachers and staff have cared for our children, however I have found many friends there for me, and my kids, and just had a lovely experience.

Tonight is the annual potluck dinner. . . . the first one I attended was NINE years ago, when Mark was an infant. . . . and now, he is nearly nine years old. And this is our LAST potluck. While I will appreciate the extra cash in my pocket, I will miss the teachers and staff. Leslie, Michelle, Jean, and others who have been there LONGER than us. They make the place tick. I remember Alice, the infant teacher, who left during Naomi's infant year to care for her aging mom. Alice was a great teacher, although I think she should have been a doctor. She knew exactly when Mark was coming down with an ear infections, and was the one Mark puked on the most when he developed said ear infection.

Mary, who cooks, delicious food for the kids. Wayne who comes weekly to sing with the kids. Annalee, Peggy, Kristie, Stephanie, Sarah and many others who I love to see daily (hopefully). I am glad that we will see each of them tonight, and daily until the fateful day in August comes, when I clean out the last Weitzman cubby at BITC. Leslie will be sure to have ALOT of Kleenex that day!

TROMBONE

2011-03-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

Purim was a blast

2011-03-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

Naomi had a great time.

Mark was on the bima.

A good time was had by all.

Now to clean for Pesach!

Hamentashen

2011-03-18T13:37:00.001-07:00

I made lots of them.

Shared them at work.

Will deliver to friends this weekend.

Made chocolate chip, peanut butter chocolate chip, raspberry, apricot and poppy seed!

LOTS AND LOTS.

They are yummy.

Did ya miss me?

2011-02-27T13:36:00.000-08:00

Holy smokes. Have I been busy. Any who!

Today, I made lemon scones for brunch. The guests loved them.

The other HIT I made was Tortilla and Butternut Squash Soup from the New England Soup Factory cookbook. HOLY SMOKES! It is amazing! I have been using the Boston Organics for some home delivery, and the last order had the squash. My family doesn't like straight up squash, so I searched for a recipe that would "hide it."

FOUND IT!

The soup is amazing. I can't wait to eat it during the week too. What tasty leftovers.

The cooking and baking have stopped

2011-01-07T10:22:00.000-08:00

Now it is time for me, to start eating right. I am starting Weight Watchers at home. I have to lose some weight and get into shape. So I am loading up on cucumbers, baby carrots and grape tomatoes. Dont' fear. There are cool recipes in the WW cookbook I just bought. I am going to try zucchini bread next week. Stay tuned!

Vacation is OVER

2011-01-02T17:40:00.001-08:00

Although we spent a lot of time with family, I feel as though I need another vacation.

An easy recipe, which the crowds love, just ask my co-workers

2010-12-21T11:54:00.000-08:00

Today was the holiday party at work. Work supplies the salad and main course, and those who want to bring desserts, bring desserts.

I brought a carload of goodies.

The best seller of the day: Oreo Balls

8 oz. softened cream cheese (I did use the low fat kind, if that helps you)
1 package of oreo’s (I think they were 16 oz), crushed. Crush the entire cookie, don’t remove the filling
2 cups semi sweet or milk chocolate chips
1 T shortening (I use Crisco)

Mix cream cheese with electric mixer until fluffy. Add the crushed Oreos and beat on high until well mixed. Chill for at least 2 hours in the freezer. Then roll Oreo cookie mix into one inch Oreo Balls.
Next, melt the chocolate chips and shortening with a double boiler or in the microwave.
Dip the Oreo balls completely into the melted chocolate using tongs or a toothpick.
Put on wax paper. After the Oreo balls harden, keep them in the refrigerator.

Makes about 3 or 4 dozen Oreo Balls, depending on the size

Rebecca is mentioned in the Wall Street Journal today - How cool is that????

2010-12-10T07:12:00.001-08:00

Read all about it!!!!!!!

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703766704576009522429956708.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Perplexus

2010-12-02T10:41:00.001-08:00

Sooo, apparantly I am soooo very trendy. We have gotten this toy for three of Mark's friends.

And he wanted it. . . . so last night he opened it for Chanukah.

My friend just told me it was on Good Morning America today. . . . as a great toy. Annabelle from the Green Planet in Newton Highlands recommended it, and now I know that she is brilliant. This was back in June!

Naomi got a Pinkalicious Dolly, and she is happy as a clam!

Half Baths - which some call powder rooms

2010-11-22T13:22:00.000-08:00

http://www.designtrackmind.com/2010/08/7-tips-for-perfect-powder-room.html?utm_source=BP_recent

LOVE the need for a LOUD FAN!

Proposed Thanksgiving Menu - Looking for Input

2010-11-18T05:56:00.000-08:00

Carrott puree with spices (from Spice Cookbook - Oleana)
Knishes (vegetarian)

Homemade bread
Turkey and Gravy (my mom is making)
Stuffing - Hazelnut and Apricot
Shiitake Pot Pie (Vegetarian Times Thanksgiving Cookbook)
Sweet Potato with Gingersnap Crust
Asparagus
Cranberry sauce

Fruit
Candied Cranberry Chocolate Tart
Chocolate Pie (Mae's recipe)
Apple Pie (from the Pie and Pastry Bible)
Oreos (made from Flour Cookbook)
Chocolate Chip Cookies (from the Flour Cookbook)
Mandelbred (from the Boston Globe)
Brown Butter Pecan Tart

Challah

2010-11-13T14:21:00.001-08:00

I love challah.

My family loves challah.

I make a great challah in the bread machine. The bread machine mixes, kneads and rests the dough. Then I shape it, let it rise again, and POP it in the oven for 25 minutes.

Yesterday I made that challah and another challah. It was a challah throw down!

Vegetarian Empanadas

2010-11-08T07:31:00.000-08:00

A few years back, a new neighbor made homemade empanadas, that were out of this world. Of course, they were filled with meat, so my hubby couldn't try them. I kept saying how amazing they were!

Of course, I had to make them, and needed a recipe. I did find a recipe years back, that involved premade puff pastry dough! A blessing!!!!!

So, to make the empanada, you defrost the package of puff pastry for about 45 minutes (or an hour), and then start to make the filling, which is 3/4 cup of chopped onion, sauteed, and then mixed with a can of drained black beans, cumin, salt and pepper. Pour the onion and bean mixture into the food processor, and pulse (don't make cat food).

Roll out the dough, and cut into squares (I usually get nine squares out of a sheet). Put the a small dollop of filling onto the dough, then shred some cheese (cheddar for me), and then paint the edges with egg wash. Fold. Crimp. Put on a greased cookie sheet.

Put in the oven at 350 for 15 minutes (turning the pan once).

COOL or you will burn your tongue!

Serve with rice and a side veggie (asparagus is a favorite)

Waffles

2010-11-04T03:28:00.001-07:00

Working moms . . . . dinner is always a rush. Right now I seem to be in a rut of the same things that are quick and easy to make.

WAIT. I decided to make breakfast for dinner. I used Alton Brown's waffle recipe (and doubled it) for last night's dinner.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/basic-waffle-recipe/index.html

SUCCESS. No photos because the waffles are GONE.

A Halloween Favorite

2010-11-01T05:34:00.000-07:00

Bonus Baking Day

2010-10-26T10:08:00.000-07:00

Last night I attended the annual client meeting at the DeCordova Museum, and had fun sitting and talking with clients over a yummy dinner. Of course, there was a lot of prep work, but the event was wonderful.

When I was on my way to work today, my boss called me, to let me know that the power was out in the building (the whole building). Work from home. Fine, but I could not log onto my machine at work (since it too was off).

Went home, and started laundry, and set off to test another recipe in the upcoming Temple Emanuel Sisterhood Cookbook. This time, I made hamantashen. I love my recipe, but this one yielded a dough that was even easier to work with, so this is my new favorite.

I am sure my coworkers will enjoy the fruits of my labor tomorrow!

Chocolate-chip cinnamon mandelbrot

2010-10-25T08:45:00.001-07:00

This is the photo from the Boston Globe:

Another great hit with kids and grown ups:

http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/food/articles/2009/09/16/recipe_for_chocolate_chip_cinnamon_mandelbrot/

Very easy to make. I have made this recipe often, and is almost as good as chocolate chip cookies.

Girlie Night

2010-10-24T08:48:00.000-07:00

Naomi and I had a girlie night with Auntie Missy and Miranda. And what did we do??? This is Naomi's dream girlie night.

1. Playing games
2. Then watching Disney's Little Mermaid in a princess dress up costume.
3. Eating parfaits, Kraft Mac and Cheese for dinner.
4. Eating Pinkalicious cupcakes.

Going to bed late. . . . (8:30 PM, normal bedtime is 7:30 PM).

(Mark and Adam were at a boy scout overnight in a cabin.)

Drummer Naomi

2010-10-23T12:07:00.001-07:00

Naomi and I went to the Boston Civic Symphony last weekend, and before the concert, there was an instrument petting zoo.

This was Naomi's favorite instrument by far.

Hadassah

2010-10-21T05:08:00.000-07:00

I have been a member of Hadassah, since the day I was born. My grandmother made sure of that. Last night, was my first official Hadassah event (if you don't count a challah making lesson at an apartment in Cambridge years ago).

What is Hadassah? It is an amazing group of women, from around the world, to help Israel, and Hadassah Hospital. Before I went to the event I explained to my son, how important Hadassah Hospital is to Israel and the world. One of the amazing things about Hadassah Hospital is that Israelis, Jewish people, Muslims, Christians, Arabs, and everyone else work together and help everyone. It is not unusual for an Israeli doctor to treat an Arab patient. In the Hadassah Hospital everyone is a person. And you help people.

So, off I went to the Windsor Club, all dressed up, and no kids in tow. Met up with friends, new and old. Bid on some interesting items, drank some fabulous Israeli wine, and ate some chocolate. All during the event, I thought of my grandmother. My grandmother who was active in the same chapter 60 plus years ago. I wonder if this is what she had in mind when she made me a life member the day I was born. Not only is Hadassah about helping Israel and Hadassah Hospital, but also the wonderful women, here and everywhere that care about Israel and the future. Thanks Grandma for a great gift, and I miss you.

NOTE: My mom made Naomi a life member, which makes Naomi fourth generation Hadassah life member.

Testing 1, 2, 3

2010-10-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

So, I am one of the co-chairs of the sisterhood cookbook. We have collected about 200 recipes, with a few more coming here and there. Now is the fun part. TESTING! I am coordinating the testing, and emailing recipes to my great group of testers. There are the funny emails "I was going to make this chicken recipe, but the list of ingredients doesn't list chicken." Great!

So, I have made the following:

1. Chocolate Spice Squares - they were okay according to my family. No the hit that I was looking for.

2. Persian Rice with Potatoes - thank goodness this recipe makes alot, since all four of us LOVED it.

3. Chicken with Peppers and Balsamic Vinegar - Mark and I really enjoyed this!

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Butternut Squash - another hit!

Farms

2010-10-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

So, a few weeks ago, I made my first visit to Russo's in Watertown, which I loved, loved, loved. I just wish it wasn't so far out of my daily routine. . . . the fruit and veggies were amazing. I can't wait to try the homemade pasta, on my next visit.

Today we went to Wilson's Farm in Lexington, MA to pick out pumpkins. And we got some sort of awesome tomatoes . . . and purple cauliflower.

I love farm stores.

A creative dinner

2010-09-24T08:41:00.001-07:00

I love baked potatoes. . . . love em. But I wanted to be more creative than just a plain ol' baked potato.

Sooo, last night I created a potato bar for dinner. Each child/adult was given one baked potato. Then the fun started. I had shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, facos (fake bacon bits), salsa, BBQ sauce, hot sauce, brocoli, cucumbers, salt, pepper,etc.

The one rule was that if you make a gigantic thing, you MUST eat it. . . .

The kids really enjoyed designing their own dinner. We must do it again!

School

2010-09-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

Last night we attended Mark's Curriculum night. I was so impressed with his teacher, and what they are going to do this year. Adam and I left feeling so impressed and in awe. His teacher is strict and structured, but fair and flexible. I am soooooo looking forward to having a whole year of Ms. Powell.

She even has an easy button for the kids to push . . . . once they figure out a problem . . . . that was easy.

Vacation

2010-09-04T06:24:00.000-07:00

So, we took our annual (but probably our last) vacation to Storyland. It was HOT HOT HOT. I mean it was HOT! I did not know that New Hampshire got this hot.

On Sunday we checked into the Seasons Condo resort, and then off to Storyland. The kids had a great time. It was hot, but fun. Then off to Red Fox for dinner.

On Monday, we went to Storyland, and at 3 PM we were all hot. Too hot to continue (even with multiple trips on the raft ride) and went to the condo's pool. I have known Adam since Oct 1994, and I have NEVER seen him in a pool. Well, after 6 hours of walking around a HOT Storyland, the man got into his bathing suit, and went into the pool. I nearly fainted!!!!!! Then off to dinner, which was not as good as Red Fox.

On Tuesday, we ventured up to Mount Washington. We took a coach, and were very thankful someone else was doing the driving. The road was narrow (yes, I know two cars can pass each other, but too close for me), steep and at the top FOG covered. Naomi hated it up at the top. I mean HATED it. It was nice - 50 degrees with a 45 mph wind. Not so bad for the ol' mountain.

After that we went to Christie's Sugar Shack and had maple ice cream. Tasty. Went for another swim, and then off to dinner.

On Wednesday, we went to Glen Junction for breakfast, a favorite for the kids. Then off to Lost River and Gorge. Perfect for an eight year old boy. Not so perfect for Naomi. But she made the most of it. It was HOT again, and a bit humid for cave exploring. A great day.

All in all the vacation was a hit.

I am thankful

2010-08-25T06:16:00.000-07:00

I might not be made of money, and have less of it due to our expenses this year (two floods, two bats, two water leaks, one broken computer, one tire replacement, new glasses for Mark, four plane tickets to FL)

But I have heard bad news this week: friend of the family has breast cancer (I grew up with her kids); Naomi's teacher for Pre-K is missing the first six weeks of school due to surgery (must be scary, due to the timing of it) and good kid in city wrapped car around tree and died (no drugs, no alcohol, just slippery roads).

Florida

2010-08-18T09:21:00.000-07:00

So we are back from Florida, but I can't share any photos. . . . our computer died. . . . Adam is busy trying to figure out what we "need" and what we can afford.

But, here is a photo from my mother-in-law's cell phone. Pure bliss if you ask me.

More details when I get a computer!

Fenway Park

2010-08-02T13:26:00.000-07:00

So we took the kids to their first Red Sox game at Fenway Park. . . . everyone had fun . . . . everyone ate something they liked!

I don't know if I would take Naomi again til she is older, but an afternoon game was great.

Mark's first slumber party

2010-07-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

Somehow I forgot to tell you all about Mark's first slumber party. His friend, J, was turning 9, and he wanted to have a slumber party, just like his big brother. I dropped off Mr. Mark at the party at 4 PM. Birthday boy was waiting eagerly outside his out. Brought up the gear (sleeping bag, pillow and backpack containing PJ's, underwear, two pairs of shorts and shirts, toothbrush, toothpaste). Mark was wearing his bathing suit. Once the party members were all there, they did water balloon fights, etc. Then pizza for dinner, and Cabots Ice Cream Cake for dessert. Then movie night. The boys fell asleep between 9:30 PM and 10 PM.

The boys were awake by 6 AM the next morning, and the hostess made chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast! I was called to pick up Mark . . . and when I arrived he was there with all his stuff, except his sandals. Long story short, another child wore home Mark's sandals, and had his own in his bag. Sooo at 8:00 AM on a Sunday morning, I had to drive with Mark to another family's house and get the sandals back.

Mark had an a super time at his sleepover. And would do it again.

Naomi during the time, was brought to Johnny's for dinner, where she had her favorite dish there - mac and cheese. We then went to JP Licks. . . . and as she was eating her ice cream announced loud enough for others to hear "Cabots has the best ice cream."

I pointed out that we were at JP Licks, and she said "I know. Cabots has the best ice cream."

Point taken . . . . I love both ice cream places (heck, I like every ice cream I eat), but the girl likes her Cabots.

Captain Bill and Sons - Whale Watch

2010-07-26T06:08:00.000-07:00

So, the four of us, plus my parents went on the whale watch yesterday, which was FOUR hours long. On a SUPER hot day, it was a great activity. The kids learned so much about whales and their behaviors. Our boat had two naturalists on board, who talked first about Gloucester Harbor, and then about the whales. What types of whales are up here, their feeding habits, their mating habits. It was very interesting. For instance, the female whales teach the calves how to feed, and where to find the food. So if the dad is from Norway and the mom is from New England, the calf will learn how to eat and migrate to Stellwagen bank. Female whales are larger than male whales. Baby whales are not named until their second season at Stellwagen.

At first we saw LUKOS the whale and her baby, and then we traveled to see Cosmos, where we watched him gather his fish and then eat it.

I highly recommend this whale watch. There was no reason to take a jacket, since it was 90+ degrees at the coast. It was about 70 degrees out at the bank.

Movie Time

2010-07-22T05:26:00.000-07:00

Adam and I really enjoy NETFLIX. This week we watched two movies.

Movie #1 - IRON MAN. Yes, it was the classic, BIG explosions and well, you know the drill. We saw IRON MAN 2 in the theater this year, and we both wanted to see the first one. The sub woofer got a real work out.

Move #2- MILK. Another great movie. Sean Penn was unbelievable. . . . so unbelievable though that I forgot it was him! It was definately worth the rental. Did not need the big screen for this one.

Too hot to bake

2010-07-20T17:26:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks made my kitchen TOO hot. It was closed for baking. Tonight it re-opened. I have a bread in the bread machine for the family. Then at work, two guys, have really helped me out, and to say thank you, I am making them a plate of goodies. The goodies are blueberry muffins, chocolate cinnamon brownies and rice krispie treats.

What did these two do?

First, one of them, helped my boss design a new report for our quarterly reports. Not only that, but he is there to trouble shoot when the spreadsheet doesn't do what I want it to do. He is very patient, and kind, and well, I want him to know that I appreciate it.

The second one of them found out what I was doing to publish our monthly FLASH REPORT. He volunteered to build something that would save me 90 minutes when doing this monthly project, along with 75 sheets of paper. Again, he did not have to do it. . . . he volunteered, and I want him to know that I appreciate it.

And, it doesn't hurt that others will see the baked goods and hopefully one day want to help me out!

DS

2010-07-16T16:38:00.000-07:00

So, Mark last year requested a DS. We wanted to teach Mark that money does not grow on trees. We had been giving him an allowance of $2/week, plus the soda bottle money. After a long time, Mark has SAVED up for not only the DS, but the "bundle" that comes with an accessory pack and 2 games. It arrived today. It is charging, and then Mark can use his new toy.

Now he wants to save up for a Charm City Cake, which is over $1,000, plus $175/hr for delivery (from Baltimore). He might need a real job for that!

Summer Update

2010-07-14T16:57:00.000-07:00

Summer is going well. Mark is loving camp, and I am loving that he is exhausted when he comes home. (BONUS) Naomi is enjoying summer also. Over the Fourth of July, we went to Marblehead - my brother was in town. The four kids really enjoy each other. They had a great time at the JCC pool and on the Marblehead Festival of Arts Trolley. I really enjoyed the church's lobsta' roll (best one EVER). We went to the Newton Fireworks, and all had a blast. Naomi fell asleep on the car ride home. Mark stayed up to watch the Boston Fireworks on TV.

Next week Mark will be doing a tennis clinic after camp, so he should come home extra sweaty and extra tired.

Gymnastics

2010-06-29T04:06:00.000-07:00

Gymnastics has ended for both kids. There was a bit of a show on Saturday morning. One of the reasons, I love Energy, is that it is focused on children and their abilities and growth, and less on showmanship. Each group rotated through the equipment - floor, beam, trampoline, bars and running. I am proud of each of the kids. Both progressed nicely through the year.

They will continue next year.

Another Great Meal at Thistle Hill Tavern

2010-06-27T13:44:00.000-07:00

This time we took my parents and the kids. . . . and it was fabulous!

For starters we had - grilled asparagus, green pea falafel, zucchini pancakes and fried fennel. All were excellent. Both kids loved the fennel.

Salad - (1) Romaine salad with tristar strawberries (my favorite strawberry); (2) roasted red beet salad and (3) peach and buratta cheese salad (which was superb).

Dinner
Mark had the grilled octopus and loved it. . . . . ate the whole thing, except for two bites (one for me and one for my dad)

Papa - HAND MADE PAPPAREDELLE braised Fazio Farms rabbit, hen of the woods mushrooms, fava beans, peas, mint, pecorino

Adam - the best vegan burger he has ever had

Grandma -The trout

Naomi - the gratin, but Dave noticed that she did not like it, and asked if Rebecca could make a grilled cheese sandwich . . . . nice save Dave!!!!!

Me - Sea Bass - yummy

Desserts - one of everything! The cookie plate (one sandwich cookie, one biscotti and one vanilla wafer all homemade) with steamed caramel milk; two chocolate panna cottas (one for each kid), goat cheese tart with fresh blueberries and honey (to die for), buttermilk biscuit with rhubarb and the dessert special - fresh berry compote, which we all loved!!!!

A great dinner! It was nice for the kids and us to see Rebecca. The kids can't wait to go back again. Dave was really nice, and let Mark follow him outside to watch him work the awning.

Thanks for a great dinner!

Mark in a few years

2010-06-23T15:53:00.000-07:00

Right now, Mark is at Camp Grandma, also known as the "Spa." There is a week between when school ends and camp starts. On Day 1, Mark went to Five Guys for lunch and had a double burger. Then he went swimming at the JCC pool. For dinner that night he had London Broil.

Today he saw Toy Story Three, and then did some bike riding.

Tomorrow is a bake-a-thon.

Last weekend we went to Canobie Lake Park, where Mark has grown tall enough to go on many of the larger rides, and he can go on many rides alone. One ride that he loved was the Canobie 500, which is driving a race car.

Photo included.

The Blind Side

2010-06-23T04:10:00.000-07:00

I just rented that movie, and LOVED it. Oh my. Such a great movie. This is one of the best movies I have ever seen. I loved Sandra in it!

Excellent Customer Service - JetBlue

2010-06-16T05:36:00.000-07:00

I just have to tell everyone, what a great phone call I had with Sharon, of JetBlue. In this day and age, I believe customer service has gone down the toilet. I hate waiting on hold, and I hate that no one on the other end of the phone cares, or can do anything about anything.

The other night, Adam and I booked our flight to FL with the kids to see Adam's grandfather. We finally had enough points on USAA to earn ONE FREE FLIGHT. Yes, I am excited about that. To save money, we are flying mid week . . . . to say even more money we are taking our two kids on an 8 PM flight (and if all goes well lands at 11 PM). However I wasn't willing to save even more money by booking a flight with a layover. Soooooooo hopefully that all goes well. And yes, I will blog about that also.

Getting back to my story . . . . . USAA and JetBlue. Got our emails with the confirmation of the flight, but no seat assignments. The last time that happened with United, I believed the company that I would have seats. . . . . together. HA. I must have been stupid, because first we did not have seats, and then once we got seats, we were all spread out. Amazingly people did swtich with us, once they figured out that the two year's olds mom was not sitting with the two year old.

So, I called JetBlue. . . . Sharon answered, and not only got us seats, but seats all together. On both our flight to FL and home. She was awesome. I did email JetBlue to let them know how happy I was that she helped me. I know she could have said "You will get seats when you get to the airport." But she did not. We have four seats together (two and two), and I am one happy camper.

Lets hope the rest of the trip goes this well.

Naomi

2010-06-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

says the cutest things.

"When am I going to Drugland Farms" when in reality it is Drumlin Farms.

Another good one was Mark trying to explain that a baby grows in a womb and not a stomach. Naomi did not believe him. She kept looking at me thinking that Mark was fibbing.

Such a cutie pie. I think I will keep her.

Mark - I remember

2010-06-08T17:04:00.000-07:00

Mark is about to finish second grade. I can't believe that. I remember so much about his past life, and how fast he is growing up.

I remember, how he was born three weeks before his due date.

I remember, that he slept through the night for the first time, on his two month old birthday, at my parent's house, while Adam and I slept at home for the whole night in two months.

I remember, his first airplane ride, at three months to FL, to visit his great grandparents.

I remember, his flapping.

I remember, how he learned how to read - he taught himself, by smooshing the letters together.

I remember, how excited he was when we got the mini van.

I remember, how much he ate in Denver when he was 18 months old - his favorites being white bean pate with truffles. On that same trip, I remember how after he ate a HUGE helping of black beans he slept in my inlaws room . . . . and he slept as he passed gas, all night long.

I remember his first day of daycare (and his last day).

I remember his first day at Angier.

I remember when he got ear tubes.

I remember, how they did NOT fall out, and he had to have them removed surgically.

I remember how he asked when he saw Naomi for the first time (all wired up) "Cool my sister has batteries. . . . will we go to CVS for new batteries?"

I remember how he told his friend this year, how he was in my womb, and came out (and how) and then proceeded to explain a C-Section is a special door.

I also remember how he asked recently, "I know how babies come out of the womb, but how do they get inside?"

Memorial Day

2010-05-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day in peaceful May
We honor the soldiers, the blue and the grey
and other great soldiers
who kept our country victorious!

Naomi Stories

2010-05-24T05:32:00.000-07:00

Naomi recently asked Adam "Why did the company that make me, make me a girl?" Adam told her that a company did not make her. . . . which led to "Daddy, why did you make me a girl?"

Another question to Adam: Daddy, why am I a girl and not a clown?

Adam "What? You can be a clown."

Naomi says "You can be a girl, or a boy, or a clown." I think she is trying to say it is a third gender.

Adam tells her that a clown is a boy or a girl wearing a costume. . . .

Naomi "oh"

Amazing Dinner at Thistle Hill - SUPER YUMMY

2010-05-23T15:46:00.000-07:00

Shared Among Four people:

SPICED NUTS & SEEDS
FRIED FENNEL
GREEN PEA FALAFEL
HOUSE MADE PICKLED VEGETABLES
ZUCCHINI PANCAKES
Octapus

Salad Course:
SPRING LETTUCES fresh herbs, apple tree dairy goat cheese, citrus dressing
CHOPPED ROMAINE cucumbers, radishes, feta, mint, yogurt dressing
SHAVED MARKET SALAD: kale, beets, carrots, apples, sunflower seeds, herb vinaigrette

Main Course:

Gnocci (Adam)
Muscles (Jeff)
Rib Eye Steak (Stacey)
Diver Scallops (Stephanie)

Desserts:
Cinnamon - Chocolate Panna Cotta
Cookie dish
Goat Cheese yummy thing
Savory Buttermilk Buscuit with salted brown sugar mascarpone!

More later!

Mark and Adam . . . a conversation

2010-05-20T11:57:00.000-07:00

Mark: Daddy, is the tooth fairy real, or is it just your parents?

Me: What makes you think it's just your parents?

Mark: Well, Santa Claus is just your parents. Plus, you usually get what you tell your parents about, like, if I say I want a dollar, the tooth fairy usually gives me a dollar. Like when kids ask for Christmas presents.

Me: Well, since you seem to have it figured out, do you want to know the truth?

Mark: (pushes the button on his "dreidel") This is how they have to spin a dreidel in space.

Me: I wonder why. I would think you could impart enough force on it by hand.

Mark: No, they have to do it this way...
(conversation about dreidel-in-space physics continues, tooth fairy conversation left at cliffhanger)

Stupid people

2010-05-19T05:35:00.000-07:00

Luckily I had enough warning that 128 in Waltham last night was a parking lot. . . . so I went through the center of Waltham, to pick up a child . . . .

I thought I had made it. I got to daycare before closing, and was looking forward to going home and cooking a quick dinner, before Mark's swim lesson.

FOILED AGAIN.

The daycare parking lot is NOT huge, although in 8 years, I have always either been able to get a space in the lot or on the street. Last night, I pulled into a spot, and picked up The Girl. I walked back to the car, and noticed, a white new Subura Forester, had blocked me and a few other cars. I buckled the girl, and I waited. And I waited. Then I called the daycare office. . . . to hurry the owner up. No answer.

I waited.

And FINALLY, a woman appears with an infant, and another child. I turn and ask if she is leaving, and she casually says yes. Of course, she has to buckle in her child (turns out there are two, an infant and a three year old).

Traffic was bad on the local roads, so, my kids had sandwiches for dinner. . . to get Mark to swim on time.

Turns out the mom who blocked me in is new to daycare and has a language barrier. Well, I know of NO language barrier that prevents people from being nice. She was thinking about herself as she blocked me and two other cars in. Again, there was plenty of street parking, and I hope daycare can communicate that if there are NO spots in the lot, there is plenty of street parking.

And I hope Wednesday is better (traffic wise).

Maple Walnut Cake

2010-05-18T05:27:00.001-07:00

An amazing cake. . . . .made it for the neighborhood pot luck . . .

http://www.bonappetit.com/recipes/2010/04/maple_cake_with_maple_syrup_frosting

Cookies

2010-05-14T05:21:00.001-07:00

My inlaws ordered my this for Valentine's Day:

LINK

and it has been backordered since then. It just arrived, and I made my first batch of cookies.

It was very easy to use. I put "I LOVE YOU" in the heart one; Mark in the star and Naomi in the rectangle.

Can't wait to use it again!

Don't read this if you did not watch Rebecca's CHOPPED!

2010-05-12T05:23:00.000-07:00

SHE WON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And we will be at her new place on May 22! My inlaws are going today (May 12).

So exciting!

Mark's new wish . . . .

2010-05-10T17:09:00.001-07:00

http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/star-wars-cookie-cutter/?pkey=ccookie-cutters-pancake-molds

He wants these now. . . . would have been great for his birthday present two weeks ago . . . will try to find an excuse to buy them . . . . how can I say no? I am a child of the 70's!

BIRTHDAYS

2010-04-30T09:30:00.000-07:00

In the last four days we celebrated Naomi's fourth birthday and Mark's eighth birthday. There is NO way, that my "baby" is 8. Seems like yesterday I was in labor. . . . seems like yesterday I was pregnant with him.

He is now eight, and my other "baby" is four years old . . . going on 15, between the clothing and the whims and the arguments. . . .

But I love them both.

They bring such joy to my life.

CupCake Camp

2010-04-14T06:16:00.000-07:00

Wish I could go to this!

http://cupcakestakethecake.blogspot.com/2010/03/cupcakecamp-boston-coming-up-april-15th.html

Sounds like fun.

EASY PEASY

2010-04-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

http://easypeasyblog.com/2010/04/giveaway-spirit-of-boston-princess-lunch-cruise/

My daughter would SIMPLY LOVE this. It is a day before her birthday, so what an awesome birthday present this would be!

Naomi and her new bike

2010-03-30T10:31:00.000-07:00

My baby is growing up:

Too Good to be True

2010-03-30T09:59:00.001-07:00

So, last month, my mom won a raffle prize. A Kosher for Passover Seder for 10, from a local butcher on the north shore. My mom was thrilled. No need to cook! She called the butcher, and they decided on a menu (more sides, especially vegetarian sides, and no desserts). She picked up the meal on Sunday. In fact it was so nicely organized in her fridge, she took a photo! In years past, we had to play, try to fit all the Kosher for Passover food in the fridge. Instead of spending days cooking, she was free to do whatever!

Last night was the big meal!

First course - gefilte fish. Mark and I thought it was good. Mom and Dad did not share our love for it.

Second course - chicken soup with matzah balls. It was okay. It was a broth with NOTHING in it. No carrots, no parsnips, no chicken bits. My mom quickly cut and added some carrots. But still the flavor was okay and I missed my bits.

Main Course - chicken, meat tzimmes, potato kugel and brocoli kugel. The chicken was good. The meat tzimmes was disgusting. Tasted like NOTHING. So disappointing. I had never met a tzimmes I did not like! The potato kugel was bland, tasteless and not great. Adam said that the brocoli kugel was the same. Actually it looked like the same kugel, except dyed green.

Desserts - Mom provided a chocolate sponge cake and mandelbrot (yum), I provided a honey cake (YUM-O). My inlaws provided a lovely fruit platter.

http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/holidays/passover/passoversweets/recipes/food/views/Passover-Honey-Nut-Cake-in-Soaking-Syrup-109151

Passover

2010-03-26T10:45:00.000-07:00

So, I was supposed to host Seder #2 this year. I had invited my parents, and some friends.

And then the flood happened. My entire basement was brought upstairs and placed into my dining room. It is still there.

I called my mom . . . . "I can't host seder. Can we come to your house?"

She of course, said yes.

I then asked "Can I invite our friends that I had invited to our house?"

She said "Yes."

Great.

On top of that, my mom won a raffle prize: free seder for 10! Kosher for Passover. What luck!

BUT, Passover still requires alot of preparing. This weekend I am making the following Passover foods:

Potato Latkes (to freeze for later in the week when I am rushed)
Granola (double batch - Mrs. Sachar's recipe)
Chocolate Chip Cookies (A Martha recipe)
Charoset with dates, raisins and nuts (a double recipe of course)
Flourless Chocolate Torte from the Cake Bible
Cranberry Orange Sorbet

This will be done Sunday, since Passover begins Monday evening.

Flying Glasses

2010-03-26T10:44:00.001-07:00

Surprises. I like certain surprises, but for most things I like to have things planned out. I like knowing all the details.

Imagine my surprise, when I get a call from Mr. Mark’s After School Director on Wednesday afternoon at 2 PM. She started out the call by letting me know that Mark was fine. Super. Mark showed up to the program without his eye glasses.

I thought, how unusual.

She said let me put him on the phone . . . .and the next thing I hear is Mark’s voice, except it is a smaller version of his voice. It was very quiet and squeaky. I am then speaking to the director. She is explaining that Mark’s glasses fell out the window of the school bus on the way to After School.

Let me pause for a moment.

Yes, my son’s $300 eye glasses fell out the window of a school bus.

How is that even possible???? Of course, I am creating lots of stories in my head, but push comes to shove, the kid needs eyeglasses, and I am going to have to pay for a new pair. (Side note, he has had these glasses since November, 2007, so they have lasted a long time.) Now I am pondering, what was he doing on the bus?

I am steaming mad. Plus, I also am thinking that he has to pony up some money for these new glasses. He has $86 saved in his bank account. He is saving for a DS system. I am not about to drain his whole bank account, that has taken over a year of saving, however, I want him to know that this is going to be painful to our bank account also.

I try to get back to my work.

Finally 5 PM is here. I rush out of work and to After School. Mark is standing next to the director, finishing his homework (a sigh of relief from mommy). We gather his stuff, and out the door we go, on our way to Weston Optical.

I calmly ask “What happened on the bus today?”

His response “I was sitting in the back of the bus (the second to last row), and I was explaining to E (name of friend) how the Weight Loss Machine that Rube Goldberg designed worked. I was rubbing my hands against my checks, and the glasses flipped off, and out the window.”

I ask “What happened next?”

Mark – “I was very upset.”

I ask “What did you do?”

Mark “I cried alot.”

I ask “Then what.”

Mark “The bus driver could hear me, so he sent T and A back to me. They are fifth grade boys who are the bus monitors. They tried to make me feel better, but they were telling me that glasses cost a lot of money and how made you and daddy would be.”

Pause

Mark “Then we got to Rec Place and K asked where my glasses went.”

Back to the beginning of the story.

It was not malicious.

Funny, if it did not cost me $300+.

New Thing

2010-03-08T12:07:00.000-08:00

Mark's class is studying Ghana. Last week some of the parents made some food from Ghana, including a dish of black eyed peas and rice. Mark said he really liked it, so tonight, I will be making Rice and Beans from Ghana.

Hope it is as good as he remembers.

We love Purim!

2010-02-28T15:43:00.001-08:00

Mark is George Harrison on the Beatles.

Naomi is Sleeping Beauty.

Street Light

2010-02-25T13:50:00.001-08:00

Just received an email from the DPW. . . . the light will be fixed by March 1!

Will keep you posted!

A Mark and Mommy Day

2010-02-22T04:22:00.000-08:00

So, after a great breakfast of homemade lemon scones, Mark and I ventured out to the movies, to see Tooth Fairy. Not a movie I would recommend unless you are between the ages of 6 and 10. Mark really enjoyed the movie. At the end, I asked him what his favorite part was. His reply was "When the really old man, shrunk down and was on the puck."

Hmmmmm. The really old man was Billy Crystal . . . . who I don't think is very old. Perspective. Gotta have perspective.

Yummy Menu

2010-02-21T04:59:00.001-08:00

Last night we had guests for dinner, and I went to town. For the first course, I made Oleana's Carrot Puree and spice mix. Delicious. Easy!

Then we had a typical salad.

Then, cranberry wild rice back, with honey glazed carrots and homemade challah. The kids had hot dogs.

Dessert was homemade oreo cake and fresh fruit.

Everyone had a great time and enjoyed the food.

Naomi

2010-02-19T05:25:00.001-08:00

So last night, Naomi stated that when she grows up and gets married, she is NOT sleeping with ANYONE. She is going to have her own room, and her own bed. No sharing.

My goal is to get this on video!

How Many People Does it Take to Repair a Street Light?

2010-02-18T06:24:00.000-08:00

On January 21, I reported to the City that there was a broken street light at the corner of X and Y. The representative at the DPW said that it should be fixed in 7-10 days. SUPER! Because it is really dark there now.

On February 4, I contacted the City again . . . . and the same rep said that they would look into this light. No response back . . .

On Feb. 8 I emailed her again. Nothing from her.

On Feb. 12 I emailed her again. No response.

On Feb. 17, I called the DPW. The rep on the phone said that X (the original rep) was not in today, and I should call back the next day, because she can't access the computer (?????)

Today I call the DPW. The original rep is not in today either, and was told to call back tomorrow. I asked if I could check the status of a light repair. The new rep. said that she could do that. . . . great.

Guess what. She found NO record of my original request. She asked if she could enter it into the system, and I said, yes. I then requested to speak to her supervisor, letting her know that I was not upset at her.

Got the voicemail of the supervisor. "Hi this is X. I am in and out of the office sporadically. (No dates mentioned). Please let a message, or call back the main number."

Now, if I was treated like this by a company, you can be sure I would take my business somewhere else. But, it is the city, and I am stuck. I just want the street light repaired.

And hey, if the original rep. had told me it was a three month wait, I would have believed her! But, she said 7-10 days. I am on day #28. Will keep you posted.

Museum of Science Overnight

2010-02-16T15:50:00.000-08:00

Mark (and Adam) slept over at the MOS on Saturday night, through boy scouts. Mark had an amazing time. He loved the whole thing. They arrived around dinner time, and explored. At 9 PM, Mark was eating Dipping Dots, and then off to an electricity show. Lights out was at 11 PM (Mommy had been asleep for a bit).

Mark's pack slept in Science in the Park, which is one of Mark's favorite exhibits.

At 7 AM, they all woke up, and the boys were home by 11 AM.

Naomi and I took the opportunity to have girlie night. We watched Snow White and Annie. I also painted Naomi's fingernails and toe nails.

Then I got to watch the movie "The Painted Veil," which I loved.

Valentine's Day - The Dinner

2010-02-15T11:56:00.000-08:00

So, Adam and I continue to celebrate Valentine's Day. Some years, we get a sitter for the night on a weekend before V-Day. This year it fell on a Sunday night during vacation week, so my parents offered to take the kids! YEAH!

We went to Temple Bar on Mass Ave in Cambridge, which is between Harvard Square and Porter Square. We loved it! First off, they are vegetarian friendly. They have FREE parking. And the food is amazing.

For the first course, I had an AMAZING baked clam. I nearly licked the shell clean. It was delicious. Adam had a pear and cheese Tartan with micro salad, which was also fabulous.

For the main course, I had AMAZING scallops. They were cooked to perfection. I thought they were the best!!!! I have had alot of scallops in my time, and these were fabulous!!!! Adam had homemade herb gnocci which were great. (IMHO, not as good as the scallops, but he doesn't do seafood.)

For dessert we shared an order of French crepes with espresso mousse and fresh berries, which were great, and an order of the homemade chocolates, edible flowers and homemade marshmallows. We were so stuffed we had to take some of the chocolates home. It was an amazing meal, and I highly recommend Temple Bar.

Here is the website:

http://www.templebarcambridge.com/