A Monday...

that ends with a sunset cocktail cruise with these two

is a pretty perfect Monday to me.

 

Thoughts for Thursday

- Well, we know how I feel about Facebook lately, but how about the 28 things that are worse than your friends on Facebook talking about the election.  I laughed out loud at #10 and #19.

- World Market has the cutest holiday decorations.  My mom got the felt turkeys to decorate the family reunion Thanksgiving tables with, and I got the owl to place around our house.  Everything is on sale right now so you should check it out!

- I can totally relate to this LEZ BE REAL on 20-something article- sans the sex and relationship section.

- It's been a crazy week - both personally and professionally.  I woke up this morning on 4 hours of sleep with a sty in my eye and a sore throat.  #miserable

- Tomorrow is Friday.  Thank goodness!!!!!!!!!

Tasty Tuesday: On the menu

Ranch panko chicken 

with roasted brussel sprouts, and fettucini alfredo for my man
An oldie, but goodie any day of the week.

Toasted sesame ginger salmon

with roasted broccoli and quinoa

New favorite way to cook salmon.  This recipe is incredible.

via how sweet eats

 

 

Starboard Frozen Shrimp Scampi

My aunt's friends founded Starboard, a gourmet seafood company, and mom brought me the Shrimp Scampi and Miso Salmon with Udon noodles to try.  The salmon was delicious, so I have great hopes for this.  I typically do not eat any lean cuisines or frozen entrees, but with a very busy week this week, I have no problem popping dinner in the microwave for 5 minutes and calling it a day.  The dishes are $4.99 and available at Harris Teeter.

 

Roasted Kale and Butternut Squash with Almond Parmesan Crust

My sister made this last weekend and raved about it.  I am drooling looking at the picture, cannot wait to try it!

via oh she glows

 

 

What's cooking in your house this week?

Glamping in the Mountains

I did not want this past weekend to end.  We had the best time in Sapphire, North Carolian, relaxing and enjoying great company and awesome views.  Though my body could use another day lights saving, my heart is full and mind rejuvenated.

Friday, we loaded up Collins in the back of the car to go play with Cousin Moe in Greenville for the weekend.  She looks like a queen all sprawled out in the back with her bone, and surprisingly was an excellent traveler in the back without her crate.

With our Greenville detour, it was a long drive, but absolutely worth it in order to catch this sunset view upon our arrival.

While we waited for the rest of the crowd to join us, Lash and I cooked a delicious homemade pizza Friday night - whole wheat crust, bbq sauce, caramelized onions, shredded chicken, bacon, and a four cheese blend.  I wish we had leftovers because I would legit eat it for breakfast right now.

After a late night of laughing, we went on a gorgeous hike on Whitestone Mountain on Saturday.  

The views at the top were stunning.  You could literally see for miles and miles.

After our hike, we relaxed for the remainder of the afternoon and continued our "glamping" - a real house wives reference for glamorous camping - with happy hour in time for another gorgeous sunset.

We ended the evening perched by this cozy fire, laughing and chatting away.

None of us wanted to get on the road Sunday, 

but the trip was a gorgeous reminder of the hand of God, the foliage was just popping with deep reds, golds, and oranges.  For this born and raised Lowcoutnry girl not used to truly seeing "fall," I loved the escape and scenery.

Take me back!

Thoughts on Thursday - Halloween

Halloween is easily my least favorite holiday... bar none.  

Maybe, I will appreciate it more when we have children of our own, but I just do not enjoy the skeleton and goblin themed decorations.  Can we fast forward to more pleasant ones of Thanksgiving and Christmas?  I am ready to put up a tree.

My favorite costume of the night was an adorable referee - his costume clearly made with black duck tape and a white tee shirt.   I asked, "what kind of referee are you?" (assuming football, baseball, etc), and he cleverly responded, "I'm a replacement ref!"  Awesome.

Lash got mad at me because I tried to save the Reese's pieces for us, and give away the Almond Joy's to trick-or-treaters.  #SorryI'mNotSorry It's not if you win or lose, it's how you play the game - right?!  J/k

Can't wait to read about your Halloween experiences and see pictures--- can you believe it is NOVEMBER??!?

#21

Even Collie girl is pretty beat up about Marcus Lattimore's devastating injury sustained last Saturday.

There is not much more to say that hasn't already been said, tweeted, or written about one of the most talented, yet humble player in the game.  

But I know that all of Gamecock nation and college football in general in cheering for this young man's bright future - whether on the field or off.

Get well soon Latti!

The FB Debate

source

How do you feel about Facebook?

I have a love/ hate relationship going on right now. I love that I can keep up with friends through photos, status updates, and wall posts, but on the other hand, I hate that I can keep up with friends through photos, status updates, and wall posts. . . without having to call or text.

But also I hate it because of what it's become, to our society and our culture, to individuals and to businesses .... with its own set of rules and regulations straddling the right of free speech.  Do you think I will be logging on next Tuesday when either Romney or Obama edges out the other?  Hell no.  I can't stand how people get so hot headed and make hurtful (and often ignorant) statements - whether about politics or even just in general.

Unintentionally, I've had my feelings hurt on social media and unintentionally, I've also hurt others.

It's enough to make me want to deactivate. .

But is it worth it?

Logistically, it's a few mouse clicks and I'm there.  

Psychologically, I am not addicted - that's not the concern ... Moreover, if I had to rank social media:  Facebok < Instagram < Twitter in my book ... 

But do I want to miss the engagement or pregnancy announcements?  The wedding photos of friends and family?  The excitement when a friend accomplishes a long time marathon goal?  The birthday reminders?  Watch friends move into new apartment and find new jobs in new cities ? Stalk that new boyfriend or girlfriend someone is head over heels in love with?

Of course, I don't want to miss that.

But do the negativity and the consequences outweigh the benefits? You decide.

The Makings of a Comeback?

I have not blogged in almost three months.  A part of me needed a break because prioritization and schedule limitations truthfully left no time to devote to this outlook... but I also wanted to soul search why exactly I was doing this and what my plans were for it long term.

I can't say I accomplished the second goal, but I have missed the creative freedom and fellowship, and I am having a hard time throwing in the towel so easily on something I started back in April 2009.  There are a lot of years and a lot of memories on this site!  I also hate that I have missed documenting so much of our first and second years of marriage, friend's weddings, and other adventures, so I'm breaking the ice. I feel like I am finally in a place of peace and renewal.

I have no idea if anyone is still out there reading, but if you are, I appreciate your loyalty while I got my life together.  Moreover, shout out to my sister and her blog, that really encouraged me to get back on the horse!

My Next Two Weeks

DeBordieu, DC, Charleston, Nashville, back to Charleston, New York, and Greenville

I'm exhausted just thinking about it, but so excited for all of the opportunities!!

Open Faced Grilled Caprese

Lunch during the work week is always an after thought to me... I typically throw together a salad, sandwich, or leftovers, and rush through it while I am sitting at my desk or running home to let the dog out.  On the weekends, I like to take time with lunch and actually put something creative and tasty together.

Lunches like this, however, makes me wish I spent a little more time during the week on the meal.  It is light, delicious, and screams summer time.  There are a million different ways you could go with it- add grilled chicken, pesto, sundried tomatoes, anything... all I know is that Lash is sorry he missed this one. :)

French loaf, artisan bread, or baguette, sliced to 1/4 inch thickness
EVOO
Mozzerella slices
Balsamic glaze
Sliced tomatoes, heirloom would be the bomb
Basil, chiffonaded 

- Brush bread with EVOO and grill 2-3 minutes until toasted.
- Spread 1/2 teaspoon (more or less depending on preference) of balsamic glaze on toast.
- Layer sliced tomato and mozzerella
- Broil on high until cheese is melted
- Sprinkle with basil, sea salt, and fresh cracked pepper.

Juxtaposition

These Saturday beach reads pretty much sum up my constant struggle of finding that happy medium.

Tasty Tuesday: Shrimp Burgers

If you ever find yourself in Beaufort, SC, or on the way out to Fripp Island, you must stop at the famous Shrimp Shack for a Shrimp Burger.  Recently voted as one of SC's ten best burgers, I have to agree with them.  I don't get back to my old stomping grounds as much as I would like, so this was my tip of the hat to nostalgia and attempt at a recreation. We both loved it!

Shrimp Burgers

1 lb medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 chopped bell pepper (any color)
1/2 chopped onion
2 cloves garlic
1/2 t old bay (can you more according to taste preference)
Ritz crackers or panko

Grind 2/3 shrimp in food processor.  Chop remaining 1/3 and mix together in a small bowl.
Saute onion and peppers in evoo or butter until translucent.  Add garlic until slightly browned.
Combine with shrimp mixture.
Roll into balls (about the size of tennis balls like you would hamburgers) and flatten into patties.
Dredge in Ritz or panko and fry in a pan over medium heat until crispy and shrimp is cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.

Serve with lemon wedges and a tartar or cocktail sauce (bun optional).  I would also recommend pairing with a heirloom caprese salad and grilled corn.  It was a perfect summer meal!

Seen around the web . . .

the cutest face baby ever

incredible summer fun ideas

this look amazing but perhaps with chicken

and this too with snapper or grouper

scalloped rug i'm eyeing for our guest room

what's inspiring you around the web lately?

This is it!

Today's the day Lash takes his board exam!  Six weeks of studying 8am-10pm six days a week all culminate today in an eight hour exam.  {aside: Can you imagine sitting through an eight hour exam?}

I am so proud of his diligence and perseverance, and am praying hard for wisdom and discernment to all the college of medicine students out there this morning.  You will rock it!

Weekending

Homemade pizza night with Downton Abbey and a Joel Gott cab

Farmers Market

Locals, on Saturdays from 9-3 Joseph Fields Farm from John's Island sets up a truck in West Ashley at the Methodist church in between Avondale and Parrish Drive (basically, right over the bridge).  I love going there if I am just in it for the veggies and not up for the DT crowd.

via

Beautiful afternoon at Sullivan's with Anna and Chett

via Anna's instagram 

Cocktails on the deck and a puppy playdate...  

The after resulted in one tired pup!

Pioneer Woman Sour Cream Greek Yogurt Pancakes before church

These were fabulous!

Curling up with a book from a favorite author, Charles Martin

Chasing Fireflies

Sunset stroll on Folly with Collins and Lash

How was your weekend?

R & R

Some snippets from a fabulous long weekend at the beach...

A gorgeous sunset

A happy, happy puppy

Beautiful beach days

"5:00 somewhere" beverage

Incredible mom-cooked meals

(here saffron orzo from cooking light, roasted shrimp, and tomatoes)

Birthday dinner celebrations at Chive Blossoms

Happy 23rd goose!

Sunday funday of relaxation with my man after being gone for 6 days

How was your weekend?

Single Lady Meals

We are nearing the countdown to the Board Exam- only 7 days to go!  This has been an interesting and challenging chapter of my life and our life together, and while I have handled it as best I know how, I am looking forward to it being behind us.


Truth is, I haven't posted any recipes or updates on our fabulous CSA box lately, because I have not been doing much cooking.  While it is no secret that I love to cook, what I have realized over the past 6 weeks is that I moreso love sharing a meal, and subsequently my cooking, with others.  Cooking to me is a way to express my creativity and while I can talk to myself or our dog about how much I love this pasta dish or this chicken breast, it's not like we can have a conversation about the flavor, components, texture, or what I should change if I cook it again. 

I grew up in a household where my mom, dad, sister, and I ate dinner together every night. This has honestly made a lasting impression on who I am today, and it is a tradition that I will uphold with my own family one day, someday.   During this intensive study time, Lash has been packing both lunch and dinner to take the library with him... it is quite the site to see him all loaded up every morning!

While at first I relished in having no (self-inflicted) pressure to cook a meal every night, my diet has been all over the place. Sometimes I have just veggies for dinner, sometimes cheese and crackers (and wine), sometimes whatever random leftovers or sushi place is on the way home from work.  It has led to some suprisingly wonky supper times around here... and a weight gain of all things!

I've tried to be more conscious of my solo decisions, and found the perfect balance tonight- quinoa and kale salad with toasted coconut with edamame and mushrooms sauteed with soy chile glaze - meatless (yet full of protein), affordable, yet tons of flavor.  I would totally recommend this as a light, and clean, meal.

I hope to get my inspiration back in the kitchen soon.  I think I will.  Just needed a siesta.



P.S. I do not want to harp on or acknowledge the negatively and criticism surrounding my decision to post about my life being married to a medical student. I do, however, want to set the record straight:  I am not bragging about my husband, the fact that he is in medical school, nor my life in the passenger seat to his studies.  It is a significant part of my existence and shapes who I am, and if you read it otherwise, you clearly do not know me.  I am humbled, blessed beyond measure, and do not take it forgranted in the slightest.

DeBordieu

I'm off to the beach for 5 days of fun and relaxing with my family.

I can't wait for

long walks on the beach,

fun in the sun,

delicious mom-cooked meals,

good wine,

and porch time.

Enjoy the rest of your week!

out.

who rules this roost anyways?

Thoughts on Thursday

Who all has been holding out on telling me about Trader Joe's cookie butter?  It is so addicting! My nightly routine has lately included a big spoonful as I peruse blogs or the Food Network.

Doesn't this look like I was involved in some crime scene?  Nope, I've just got the beet!  I seem to be on a big roasted beet salad kick lately.  

When I was in DC, my wonderful mother bought me some Rag and Bone jeans.  I am obsessed.  I opted for the fun bluebird color, but will definitely be adding their regular jeans to my collection this fall.  They have the right amount of stretch and are so comfortable.  Plus they offered complimentary in house alterations so the jeans literally showed up at my doorstep a few days later ready for wear.  

After much debate, I took the plunge and chopped three inches off of my hair.  I love having a short 'do for the summer, it feels so light!  This is an awkward photo, but whatever.

On a weekend trip to Lowes, I bought a pink geranium for our doorstep.  Its not looking 100%, but I like at least having an inviting doorway.

Celebrating the first trip around the sun

We were married last Memorial day weekend, and I have to say I think I am going to like having an anniversary around a holiday weekend. We were out of town this weekend for another wedding, and it was so nice to have Sunday to catch up around the house, and then Monday just to enjoy each other.  We tried to go to the beach, but the spotty weather courtesy of Beryl had us just sticking around our house and enjoying the afternoon in the backyard.

We made a special point to arrive to the restaurant early to sip and savor a delicious Prosecco for a celebratory cocktail.

Unfortunately, this is the only photo from the night- a blurry mess from the bartender. 

We dined at Fulton Five, which I am willing to say is one of my top restaurants in Charleston (in the company of Cypress and FIG).  It is consistently voted the most romantic restaurant in town, and you know why as soon as you walk down the charming alley.  

But atmosphere aside, the food is phenomenal.  I've dined here four or five times and every time I have been blown away. 

Last night, I had pan seared grouper over sauted jumbo lump crab meat over fingerling potatoes, braised tomatoes, local snap peas and finished with a tomato shrimp butter.

Lash had lamb chops with herb roasted potatoes, sauteed swiss chard, caramelized onions, and a balsamic jus.  

Are you drooling yet?  I wanted to lick my plate clean.  Every bite was divine.

After dinner, we tasted the top layer of our wedding cake from the freezer.  I was expecting to take one bite and throw it out from freezer burn, but it was actually still delicious!  Some of the lace detail did not survive the trip around the sun so well, but this was a cool tradition to take a part in.

While, of course, I would have loved to have been back in Mexico on our honeymoon with this view,  it's amazing to think how far we have come in 365 days.  I would not trade being married for the world.